West Bengal Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/chandrababu-naidu-calls-on-mamata-banerjee-discusses-formation-of-non-bjp-government-220201">Mamata Banerjee</a> will boycott the next week's opposition meeting in Delhi, alleging that Congress and Left parties are playing dirty politics in the state.

The TMC supremo said that she will fight against the National Register of Citizens (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/nrc-row-assamese-cant-be-allowed-to-become-a-minority-in-their-own-land-246694">NRC</a>) and Citizenship (Amendment) Act (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/has-parineeti-chopras-tweet-on-caa-protest-cost-her-an-endorsement-deal-269222">CAA</a>) alone.

The meeting is scheduled to take place on January 13.

Banerjee has been a vocal opponent of the CAA and NRC. She has also said that both CAA and NRC will be not implemented in the state.

For quite some time, she has been organising mega rallies against the CAA and the NRC and has launched attacks on the BJP-led central government over these issues.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will boycott the next week's opposition meeting in Delhi, alleging that Congress and Left parties are playing dirty politics in the state.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will boycott the next week's opposition meeting in Delhi, alleging that Congress and Left parties are playing dirty politics in the state. The TMC supremo said that she will fight against the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) alone. The meeting is scheduled to take place on January 13. Banerjee has been a vocal opponent of the CAA and NRC. She has also said that both CAA and NRC will be not implemented in the state. For quite some time, she has been organising mega rallies against the CAA and the NRC and has launched attacks on the BJP-led central government over these issues.

Mamata Banerjee to boycott opposition meet in Delhi, alleges Congress, Left playing dirty politics

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-protests-in-parliament-demands-inclusion-of-bill-on-unauthorised-colonies-in-winter-session-263360">Aam Aadmi Party</a> (AAP) national convener and Delhi Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-praises-centre-for-developing-peripheral-expressways-to-curb-pollution-268220">Arvind Kejriwal</a> will not be attending the swearing-in ceremony of Hemant Soren as Jharkhand Chief Minister on Sunday.

The chief minister has been invited for the ceremony but on behalf of him, party MP Sanjay Singh will attend the ceremony today.

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader Soren will take oath as 11th <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-jharkhands-new-chief-minister-hemant-soren-269825">Chief Minister of Jharkhand</a> in Ranchi today at Morabadi Ground at 2 pm.

Meanwhile, Chief Ministers of as many as five states have confirmed their presence. West Bengal Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-mamata-leads-another-anti-caa-march-tells-students-to-continue-their-protest-270362">Mamata Banerjee</a>, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray are likely to attend the ceremony.

The other leaders who are likely to be present on the occasion include HD Kumaraswamy, KC Venugopal, N Chandrababu Naidu, Harish Rawat, DMK MP Kanimozhi, TR Balu, Sharad Yadav, and Ahmed Patel.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will not be attending the swearing-in ceremony of Hemant Soren as Jharkhand Chief Minister on Sunday.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will not be attending the swearing-in ceremony of Hemant Soren as Jharkhand Chief Minister on Sunday. The chief minister has been invited for the ceremony but on behalf of him, party MP Sanjay Singh will attend the ceremony today. Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader Soren will take oath as 11th Chief Minister of Jharkhand in Ranchi today at Morabadi Ground at 2 pm. Meanwhile, Chief Ministers of as many as five states have confirmed their presence. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray are likely to attend the ceremony. The other leaders who are likely to be present on the occasion include HD Kumaraswamy, KC Venugopal, N Chandrababu Naidu, Harish Rawat, DMK MP Kanimozhi, TR Balu, Sharad Yadav, and Ahmed Patel.

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal not to attend Hemant Soren's swearing in ceremony

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) working president&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-jharkhands-new-chief-minister-hemant-soren-269825">Hemant Soren</a> was sworn-in as the 11th Chief Minister of Jharkhand here on Sunday.

Governor Droupadi Murmu administered the oath of office and secrecy to Soren. A galaxy of leaders from across the political spectrum graced the occasion at Mohrabadi Ground here.

In a show of opposition strength, Chief Ministers Ashok Gehlot, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pan-india-nrc-will-hit-adivasis-hard-says-chhattisgarh-chief-minister-270804">Bhupesh Baghe</a>l and Mamata Banerjee, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, and Loktantrik Janata Dal leader Sharad Yadav were among the senior leaders who <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-chief-minister-arvind-kejriwal-not-to-attend-hemant-sorens-swearing-in-ceremony-270800">attended the event</a>.

Other opposition leaders who attended the event included RJD's Tejashwi Yadav, AAP MP Sanjay Singh, CPI's Atul Kumar Anjan, and D Raja, CPI-M leader Sitaraman Yechury, and RPN Singh, who was Congress in-charge of Jharkhand Assembly polls.

Former Chief Minister and JMM president Shibu Soren was also present to witness son taking oath for the second time as Jharkhand CM. Former Chief Minister Raghubar Das, who lost in the polls, also graced the occasion.

The event was termed as 'Sankalp Diwas' by mark beginning of an era of new Jharkhand.

JMM fought the Assembly elections in alliance with the Congress party and Lalu Prasad's Rashtriya Janta Dal (RJD) and got a comfortable majority with forty-seven seats in the 81-member house.

JMM won 30 seats, while Congress and RJD secured 16 and one seat respectively in the recently concluded Assembly polls.

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) working president Hemant Soren was sworn-in as the 11th Chief Minister of Jharkhand here on Sunday. Governor Droupadi Murmu administered the oath of office and secrecy to Soren.

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) working president Hemant Soren was sworn-in as the 11th Chief Minister of Jharkhand here on Sunday. Governor Droupadi Murmu administered the oath of office and secrecy to Soren. A galaxy of leaders from across the political spectrum graced the occasion at Mohrabadi Ground here. In a show of opposition strength, Chief Ministers Ashok Gehlot, Bhupesh Baghel and Mamata Banerjee, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, and Loktantrik Janata Dal leader Sharad Yadav were among the senior leaders who attended the event. Other opposition leaders who attended the event included RJD's Tejashwi Yadav, AAP MP Sanjay Singh, CPI's Atul Kumar Anjan, and D Raja, CPI-M leader Sitaraman Yechury, and RPN Singh, who was Congress in-charge of Jharkhand Assembly polls. Former Chief Minister and JMM president Shibu Soren was also present to witness son taking oath for the second time as Jharkhand CM. Former Chief Minister Raghubar Das, who lost in the polls, also graced the occasion. The event was termed as 'Sankalp Diwas' by mark beginning of an era of new Jharkhand. JMM fought the Assembly elections in alliance with the Congress party and Lalu Prasad's Rashtriya Janta Dal (RJD) and got a comfortable majority with forty-seven seats in the 81-member house. JMM won 30 seats, while Congress and RJD secured 16 and one seat respectively in the recently concluded Assembly polls.

Hemant Soren takes oath as Jharkhand Chief Minister

West Bengal Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-lashes-out-at-pm-modi-says-pm-contradicting-amit-shahs-comments-on-nationwide-nrc-269596">Mamata Banerjee</a> on Tuesday led a march against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and National Register of Citizens (NRC) here.

She marched from Gandhi Statue to Vivekananda House in Kolkata.

Many TMC workers, senior party leaders, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wb-several-trains-cancelled-in-katihar-division-following-public-agitation-against-caa-268518">protesters</a> joined her as she took to the streets.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-caa-protests-in-up-879-arrested-15-dead-5000-in-preventive-custody-269553">protesters</a>, who received considerable support from the bystanders, waved TMC flags and the tricolour during the march.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-has-taken-unconstitutional-route-by-seeking-outside-intervention-on-caa-wb-guv-269261">Mamata</a> has been at the forefront among chief ministers of non-BJP ruled states against implementing the amended Citizenship Act.

Last week also she had taken out a massive march to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-protests-internet-services-to-remain-suspended-in-ghaziabad-till-saturday-morning-269411">protest</a> against the Act.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-will-benefit-marginalised-pm-modi-pleads-people-to-not-trust-rumour-mongers-at-bjp-rally-in-delhi-269570">Act</a> grants citizenship to Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi refugees from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, who arrived in India on or before December 31, 2014.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday led a march against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and National Register of Citizens (NRC) here. She marched from Gandhi Statue to Vivekananda House in Kolkata.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday led a march against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and National Register of Citizens (NRC) here. She marched from Gandhi Statue to Vivekananda House in Kolkata. Many TMC workers, senior party leaders, and protesters joined her as she took to the streets. The protesters, who received considerable support from the bystanders, waved TMC flags and the tricolour during the march. Mamata has been at the forefront among chief ministers of non-BJP ruled states against implementing the amended Citizenship Act. Last week also she had taken out a massive march to protest against the Act. The Act grants citizenship to Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi refugees from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, who arrived in India on or before December 31, 2014.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee leads protest march against CAA in Kolkata

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-cm-mamata-banerjee-leads-protest-march-against-caa-in-kolkata-on-monday-269999">West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee</a> on Thursday led another mass rally in Kolkata against the Citizenship Amendment Act. She asked the students to continue their protest in a democratic manner.&nbsp;

"I will tell all the students to continue their protest for their democratic rights, in a democratic way," she said today.&nbsp;

The chief minister also announced Rs 5 lakhs each to the families of those who lost their lives in Karnataka's Mangaluru during protests.

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West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee during protest against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CitizenshipAmendmentAct?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CitizenshipAmendmentAct</a> &amp; NRC, in Kolkata: We will pay cheque of Rs. 5 lakhs each to the families of those who lost their lives in Mangaluru during protests. <a href="https://t.co/tq8CCxD0hF">pic.twitter.com/tq8CCxD0hF</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1210123083673030656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The West Bengal chief minister has been calling for rallies against the new citizenship law and the National Register of Citizens (NRC). The Citizenship Amendment Act seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Banerjee led a march from Gandhi Statue to Vivekananda House in Kolkata. Many TMC workers, senior party leaders, and protesters joined her as she took to the streets.

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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during protest march against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CitizenshipAmendmentAct?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CitizenshipAmendmentAct</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NationalRegisterofCitizens?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NationalRegisterofCitizens</a>, in Kolkata: I will tell all the students to continue their protest for their democratic rights, in a democratic way <a href="https://t.co/WE5KmaY5BJ">https://t.co/WE5KmaY5BJ</a> <a href="https://t.co/E8z3RqhvAy">pic.twitter.com/E8z3RqhvAy</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1210110704650350592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Last week also she had taken out a massive march to protest against the Act.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-has-taken-unconstitutional-route-by-seeking-outside-intervention-on-caa-wb-guv-269261">West Bengal Governor</a> has called Banerjee's stance against the implementation of the CAA as unconstitutional.&nbsp;

In a series of tweets last week, Governor Jagdeep Dhankar said that Banerjee has taken an "unconstitutional route by her public stance on CAA and ignored my appeal. This has immeasurably caused damage to our democratic fabric".&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday led another mass rally in Kolkata against the Citizenship Amendment Act. She asked the students to continue their protest in a democratic manner.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday led another mass rally in Kolkata against the Citizenship Amendment Act. She asked the students to continue their protest in a democratic manner. "I will tell all the students to continue their protest for their democratic rights, in a democratic way," she said today. The chief minister also announced Rs 5 lakhs each to the families of those who lost their lives in Karnataka's Mangaluru during protests. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee during protest against #CitizenshipAmendmentAct & NRC, in Kolkata: We will pay cheque of Rs. 5 lakhs each to the families of those who lost their lives in Mangaluru during protests. pic.twitter.com/tq8CCxD0hF — ANI (@ANI) December 26, 2019 × The West Bengal chief minister has been calling for rallies against the new citizenship law and the National Register of Citizens (NRC). The Citizenship Amendment Act seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh. On Tuesday, Banerjee led a march from Gandhi Statue to Vivekananda House in Kolkata. Many TMC workers, senior party leaders, and protesters joined her as she took to the streets. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during protest march against #CitizenshipAmendmentAct and #NationalRegisterofCitizens, in Kolkata: I will tell all the students to continue their protest for their democratic rights, in a democratic way https://t.co/WE5KmaY5BJ pic.twitter.com/E8z3RqhvAy — ANI (@ANI) December 26, 2019 × Last week also she had taken out a massive march to protest against the Act. West Bengal Governor has called Banerjee's stance against the implementation of the CAA as unconstitutional. In a series of tweets last week, Governor Jagdeep Dhankar said that Banerjee has taken an "unconstitutional route by her public stance on CAA and ignored my appeal. This has immeasurably caused damage to our democratic fabric".

Kolkata: Mamata leads another anti-CAA march, tells students to continue their protest

Former Maharashtra chief minister and Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/devendra-fadnavis-enjoys-unbridled-popularity-and-excellent-mass-connect-256436">Devendra Fadnavis </a>on Tuesday said that "politics is being done" over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act to create instability in the country.

"Politics is being done over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and people are being provoked. There is an attempt to create instability in the country by a few parties," Fadnavis told media persons in West Bengal.

He asserted that the law is "not against anyone but is for the people who were religiously persecuted."

Launching a tirade against West Bengal Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-has-taken-unconstitutional-route-by-seeking-outside-intervention-on-caa-wb-guv-269261">Mamata Banerjee</a>, Fadnavis said that her stand on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/caa-and-nrc-protests-addressing-concerns-of-protesters-a-must-for-government-268749">CAA</a> is "against people who were persecuted".

Protests have been going on across the country to oppose the Act which grants citizenship to Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi refugees from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, who arrived in India on or before December 31, 2014.

Former Maharashtra chief minister and Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) leader Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday said that "politics is being done" over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act to create instability in the country.

Former Maharashtra chief minister and Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) leader Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday said that "politics is being done" over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act to create instability in the country. "Politics is being done over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and people are being provoked. There is an attempt to create instability in the country by a few parties," Fadnavis told media persons in West Bengal. He asserted that the law is "not against anyone but is for the people who were religiously persecuted." Launching a tirade against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Fadnavis said that her stand on CAA is "against people who were persecuted". Protests have been going on across the country to oppose the Act which grants citizenship to Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi refugees from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, who arrived in India on or before December 31, 2014.

Politics being done over CAA: Former Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis

Hours after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unity-in-diversity-is-indias-speciality-amid-nationwide-protests-pm-modi-addresses-a-rally-in-delhis-ramlila-ground-269566">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> launched a blistering attack on Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her anti-CAA and anti-NRC stand, Banerjee lashed out at PM Modi stating that his stand contradicts Home Minister Amit Shah's position on nationwide NRC.&nbsp;

Banerjee took to Twitter and posted, “Whatever I said is there in public forum, whatever you said is there for people to judge. With the prime minister contradicting Home Minister publicly on nationwide NRC, who is dividing fundamental idea of India? People will definitely decide who is right and who is wrong”.&nbsp;

While addressing people from the Ramlila grounds, PM Modi said, “West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee reached out to the UN on the issue. A few years ago, she had stood up in the Parliament and asked to stop infiltration from Bangladesh and wanted help for the refugees coming in from Bangladesh”.&nbsp;

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-will-benefit-marginalised-pm-modi-pleads-people-to-not-trust-rumour-mongers-at-bjp-rally-in-delhi-269570">prime minister</a> went on to claim that Banerjee was spreading false rumours.&nbsp;

“I want to ask Mamata didi, what changed? Why are you spreading false rumours? Why are you so afraid? You must believe in the people of West Bengal. Why are you not trusting the people of your state? Today, she is questioning the Citizenship Amendment Bill. We understand why. The entire country is watching and understands who you're supporting,” he claimed.&nbsp;

Hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a blistering attack on Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her anti-CAA and anti-NRC stand, Banerjee lashed out at PM Modi stating that his stand contradicts Home Minister Amit Shah's position on nationwide NRC.

Hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a blistering attack on Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her anti-CAA and anti-NRC stand, Banerjee lashed out at PM Modi stating that his stand contradicts Home Minister Amit Shah's position on nationwide NRC. Banerjee took to Twitter and posted, “Whatever I said is there in public forum, whatever you said is there for people to judge. With the prime minister contradicting Home Minister publicly on nationwide NRC, who is dividing fundamental idea of India? People will definitely decide who is right and who is wrong”. While addressing people from the Ramlila grounds, PM Modi said, “West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee reached out to the UN on the issue. A few years ago, she had stood up in the Parliament and asked to stop infiltration from Bangladesh and wanted help for the refugees coming in from Bangladesh”. The prime minister went on to claim that Banerjee was spreading false rumours. “I want to ask Mamata didi, what changed? Why are you spreading false rumours? Why are you so afraid? You must believe in the people of West Bengal. Why are you not trusting the people of your state? Today, she is questioning the Citizenship Amendment Bill. We understand why. The entire country is watching and understands who you're supporting,” he claimed.

Mamata Banerjee lashes out at PM Modi, says PM contradicting Amit Shah's comments on nationwide NRC 

After Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday demanded an "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/impartial-organisation-like-un-should-form-panel-to-see-how-many-people-favour-citizenship-amendment-act-mamata-269221">impartial organisation</a>" like United Nations to form a committee to check how many people were in favour of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar on Friday condemned her statement stating that her "stance is an outrage of essence and letter of the constitution".

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In the name of our Founding Fathers I fervently appeal to her to act as per her oath and regretfully withdraw her statement. As a senior leader and constitutional functionary she cannot be oblivious to the potentially dangerous consequences of such approach.
— Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) <a href="https://twitter.com/jdhankhar1/status/1207838368299503616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Mamata has taken an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamatas-rally-against-citizenship-law-unconstitutional-says-west-bengal-governor-268443">unconstitutional</a> route by her public stance on CAA: WB Guv and ignored my appeal. This has immeasurably caused damage to our democratic fabric," tweeted Dhankar.

He further appealed to Banerjee to act as per her oath and regretfully withdraw her statement."As a senior leader and constitutional functionary, she cannot be oblivious to the potentially dangerous consequences of such an approach. Her stance is an outrage of essence and letter of our constitution and no nation loving person can appreciate or countenance it. I am sure she would forthwith revisit her stance," said Dhankar in a tweet.

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Her stance is an outrage of essence and letter of of our constitution and no nation loving person can appreciate or countenance it. I am sure she would forthwith revisit her stance.
— Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) <a href="https://twitter.com/jdhankhar1/status/1207838734776848384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On Thursday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had demanded that an "impartial organisation" like the United Nations should form a committee to see how many people were in favour of the Citizenship Amendment Act."Let there be an impartial organisation like United Nations or Human Rights Commission ...form a committee to see how many people are in favour or against the Citizenship Amendment Act," she said while addressing a gathering here.

Banerjee has been vehemently opposing the amended Citizenship Act and has said that she will not allow the legislation to be implemented in West Bengal. Several other non-BJP chief ministers have also echoed similar views.&nbsp;

After Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday demanded an "impartial organisation" like United Nations to form a committee to check how many people were in favour of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar on Friday condemned her statement stating that her "stance is an outrage of essence and letter of the constitution".

After Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday demanded an "impartial organisation" like United Nations to form a committee to check how many people were in favour of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar on Friday condemned her statement stating that her "stance is an outrage of essence and letter of the constitution". In the name of our Founding Fathers I fervently appeal to her to act as per her oath and regretfully withdraw her statement. As a senior leader and constitutional functionary she cannot be oblivious to the potentially dangerous consequences of such approach. — Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) December 20, 2019 × Mamata has taken an unconstitutional route by her public stance on CAA: WB Guv and ignored my appeal. This has immeasurably caused damage to our democratic fabric," tweeted Dhankar. He further appealed to Banerjee to act as per her oath and regretfully withdraw her statement."As a senior leader and constitutional functionary, she cannot be oblivious to the potentially dangerous consequences of such an approach. Her stance is an outrage of essence and letter of our constitution and no nation loving person can appreciate or countenance it. I am sure she would forthwith revisit her stance," said Dhankar in a tweet. Her stance is an outrage of essence and letter of of our constitution and no nation loving person can appreciate or countenance it. I am sure she would forthwith revisit her stance. — Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) December 20, 2019 × On Thursday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had demanded that an "impartial organisation" like the United Nations should form a committee to see how many people were in favour of the Citizenship Amendment Act."Let there be an impartial organisation like United Nations or Human Rights Commission ...form a committee to see how many people are in favour or against the Citizenship Amendment Act," she said while addressing a gathering here. Banerjee has been vehemently opposing the amended Citizenship Act and has said that she will not allow the legislation to be implemented in West Bengal. Several other non-BJP chief ministers have also echoed similar views.

Mamata has taken unconstitutional route by seeking outside intervention on CAA: West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday said that a meeting against National Register of Citizens (NRC) and Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) will be held on December 23 in all the sub-division headquarters of the state.

"'No NRC &amp; No CAB'&nbsp;meeting will be held on 23rd December in all the sub-division headquarters of the state. All the party leaders have been informed," Mamata Banerjee said.

The Chief Minister asserted that all the party leaders have been informed regarding the meeting.

"BJP is planning to malign my image by creating fake videos and spreading false information," said Banerjee.

On her statement - 'Let an impartial organisation like UN or Human Rights Commission form a committee to see how many people are in favour or against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA)', Banerjee said,&nbsp;"I mentioned only opinion poll. I said the Human Rights Commission and the UN are impartial institutions." she added.

The Chief Minister further said, "Let there be planning with experts of my country. They must organise an opinion poll and the Human Rights Commission must take care of what's going on. I said the UN must watch, also said this about the National Human Rights Commission. Let them see if people are accepting this or not."

Banerjee has been vehemently opposing the amended Citizenship Act and has said that she will not allow the legislation to be implemented in West Bengal.

Several other non-BJP chief ministers have also echoed similar views.

Protests erupted in different parts of the country over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, which grants citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday said that a meeting against National Register of Citizens (NRC) and Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) will be held on December 23 in all the sub-division headquarters of the state.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday said that a meeting against National Register of Citizens (NRC) and Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) will be held on December 23 in all the sub-division headquarters of the state. "'No NRC & No CAB' meeting will be held on 23rd December in all the sub-division headquarters of the state. All the party leaders have been informed," Mamata Banerjee said. The Chief Minister asserted that all the party leaders have been informed regarding the meeting. "BJP is planning to malign my image by creating fake videos and spreading false information," said Banerjee. On her statement - 'Let an impartial organisation like UN or Human Rights Commission form a committee to see how many people are in favour or against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA)', Banerjee said, "I mentioned only opinion poll. I said the Human Rights Commission and the UN are impartial institutions." she added. The Chief Minister further said, "Let there be planning with experts of my country. They must organise an opinion poll and the Human Rights Commission must take care of what's going on. I said the UN must watch, also said this about the National Human Rights Commission. Let them see if people are accepting this or not." Banerjee has been vehemently opposing the amended Citizenship Act and has said that she will not allow the legislation to be implemented in West Bengal. Several other non-BJP chief ministers have also echoed similar views. Protests erupted in different parts of the country over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, which grants citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

'No NRC, No CAB' meet on December 23: Mamata Banerjee

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday demanded that an "impartial organisation" like United Nations should form a committee to see how many people were in favour of Citizenship Amendment Act.

"Let there be an impartial organisation like United Nations or Human Rights Commission ...form a committee to see how many people are in favour or against the Citizenship Amendment Act," she said while addressing a gathering.

She also accused the BJP of "dividing" the country and said that the protests against the amended Citizenship Act will not stop unless the government withdraws the legislation, which aims to grant citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from three countries in India's neighbourhood.

"Suddenly after 73 years of Independence, we have to prove that we are Indian citizens. Where was BJP's at that time? BJP is dividing the country. Don't stop your protest because we have to get CAA revoked... Protests will get stronger as the day passes," Banerjee said while speaking at a protest.

"You have won 38 per cent vote after doing so much and many of them are against you. It's bad luck for us that we have to give our fathers and mothers identity. All are citizens and suddenly who gave this idea that we have to give proof of it... They are doing dirty politics," she added.

Meanwhile, West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar asked Banerjee to withdraw her reported remarks.

"I appeal CM Mamata Bannerjee to please withdraw her reported statement 'Let there be an impartial organisation like United Nations or National Human Rights Commission hold a referendum to see how many people are in favour or against Citizenship (Amendment) Act'", he said in a tweet.

Banerjee has been vehemently opposing the amended Citizenship Act and has said that she will not allow the legislation to be implemented in West Bengal. Several other non-BJP chief ministers have also echoed similar views.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday demanded that an "impartial organisation" like United Nations should form a committee to see how many people were in favour of Citizenship Amendment Act.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday demanded that an "impartial organisation" like United Nations should form a committee to see how many people were in favour of Citizenship Amendment Act. "Let there be an impartial organisation like United Nations or Human Rights Commission ...form a committee to see how many people are in favour or against the Citizenship Amendment Act," she said while addressing a gathering. She also accused the BJP of "dividing" the country and said that the protests against the amended Citizenship Act will not stop unless the government withdraws the legislation, which aims to grant citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from three countries in India's neighbourhood. "Suddenly after 73 years of Independence, we have to prove that we are Indian citizens. Where was BJP's at that time? BJP is dividing the country. Don't stop your protest because we have to get CAA revoked... Protests will get stronger as the day passes," Banerjee said while speaking at a protest. "You have won 38 per cent vote after doing so much and many of them are against you. It's bad luck for us that we have to give our fathers and mothers identity. All are citizens and suddenly who gave this idea that we have to give proof of it... They are doing dirty politics," she added. Meanwhile, West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar asked Banerjee to withdraw her reported remarks. "I appeal CM Mamata Bannerjee to please withdraw her reported statement 'Let there be an impartial organisation like United Nations or National Human Rights Commission hold a referendum to see how many people are in favour or against Citizenship (Amendment) Act'", he said in a tweet. Banerjee has been vehemently opposing the amended Citizenship Act and has said that she will not allow the legislation to be implemented in West Bengal. Several other non-BJP chief ministers have also echoed similar views.

Impartial organisation like UN should form panel to see how many people favour Citizenship Amendment Act: Mamata

West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar on Sunday criticised Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee after the later spearhead a rally against Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019.

West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar on Sunday criticised Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee after the later spearhead a rally against Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019. Dhankhar termed her protest and rally as `unconstitutional` act. ".@MamataOfficial. I am extremely anguished that CM and Ministers are to spearhead rally against CAA, law of the land. This is unconstitutional. I call upon CM to desist from this unconstitutional and inflammatory act at this juncture and devote to retrieve the grim situation," tweeted Dhankar. The governor also expressed his gratitude towards the section of society who have urged the protesters to shun violence. "Gratitude to Intellectuals, filmmakers, actors and stage artists who urged protestors to shun violence. Hope others in such a category would similarly come forward. We are constitutionally obliged to follow law of the land and as Governor enjoined to ensure it and am at it," he said in another tweet. Dhankhar had on Sunday prevailed upon the chief minister to withdraw advertisements stating that National Register of Citizens (NRC) and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) will not be implemented in the state. On Sunday, amid protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 in several parts of West Bengal, internet services were suspended temporarily as a precautionary measure in some districts of West Bengal, sources said. The internet was suspended in some parts of the districts of Uttar Dinajpur, Malda, Murshidabad, Howrah, North 24 Parganas ( Basirhat and Barasat subdivisions) and South 24 Parganas ( Baruipur and Canning subdivisions). The Act seeks to grant Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill was passed from Parliament earlier this week and became an Act with President Ram Nath Kovind giving his assent on November 12. (With inputs from ANI)

Mamata's rally against citizenship law 'unconstitutional', says West Bengal governor

Protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act continue in Assam, authorities on Saturday relaxed the curfew in Guwahati from 9 AM to 4 PM.

India: Protests against Citizenship Act continue

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday reacted to reports of the postponement of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/japanese-pm-shinzo-abes-visit-to-india-postponed-268081">Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit to India</a>.

"It will be a blot on our country," Banerjee said.

The external affairs ministry on Friday confirmed that Abe's visit to India has been postponed and will take place later on a mutually convenient date.

According to reports, Abe's visit was to take place in India's Northeast region. The northeast has been rocked by massive protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill.

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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, on India, Japan defer Japanese PM Shinzo Abe's visit to mutually convenient date in near future: It will be a blot on our country. (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/hTkzPPtiCC">pic.twitter.com/hTkzPPtiCC</a>
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On Thursday, at least two people were killed in police firing as mobs continued to protest against the Bill that seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from&nbsp;Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan.&nbsp;

Bangladesh's Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen and Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bangladesh-minister-has-given-explanation-for-cancelling-his-india-visit-mea-267936">also cancelled their trips to India</a> amid protests against a citizenship bill.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday reacted to reports of the postponement of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit to India. "It will be a blot on our country," Banerjee said.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday reacted to reports of the postponement of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit to India. "It will be a blot on our country," Banerjee said. The external affairs ministry on Friday confirmed that Abe's visit to India has been postponed and will take place later on a mutually convenient date. According to reports, Abe's visit was to take place in India's Northeast region. The northeast has been rocked by massive protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, on India, Japan defer Japanese PM Shinzo Abe's visit to mutually convenient date in near future: It will be a blot on our country. (file pic) pic.twitter.com/hTkzPPtiCC — ANI (@ANI) December 13, 2019 × On Thursday, at least two people were killed in police firing as mobs continued to protest against the Bill that seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan. Bangladesh's Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen and Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal have also cancelled their trips to India amid protests against a citizenship bill.

Blot on our country: Mamata reacts as Japanese PM's India visit gets deferred

After the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-tmc-mla-sabyasachi-dutta-joins-bjp-in-presence-of-amit-shah-253073">Trinamool Congress</a> (TMC) won the Kaliaganj Assembly by-polls and is currently leading in on rest of the two seats, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said politics of arrogance won`t work, people have rejected the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-condemns-pragya-singh-thakurs-reported-reference-to-nathuram-godse-drops-her-from-defence-committee-264994">Bharatiya Janata Party</a> (BJP).

The All India Trinamool Congress party took to its twitter handle and shared a picture featuring Banerjee with mention of her reaction on the poll results.

"West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on TMC winning 1 and currently leading on rest of the 2 seats in the by-elections: This is a victory of people. This is a victory of development. Politics of arrogance will not work. People have rejected the BJP," All India Trinamool Congress tweeted.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BengalWithDidi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BengalWithDidi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MamataOfficial</a> reacts on big 3-0 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BengalBypolls?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BengalBypolls</a> win <a href="https://t.co/X0wGSkkYA5">pic.twitter.com/X0wGSkkYA5</a>
— All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/AITCofficial/status/1199944045465747456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"This is the first time we are winning in Kharagpur and Kaliaganj. Minorities, Adivasis, Rajbanshi--everyone has voted for us. Courtesy is the culture of Bengal," All India Trinamool Congress added.

TMC candidate Tapan Deb Singha on Thursday registered a win from Kaliaganj assembly by-election with a margin of over 2,000 votes.

TMC candidates are also leading in Karimpur and Kharagpur Sadar seats as per official Election Commission (EC) trends.

Pithoragarh in Uttarakhand and Kaliaganj (SC), Karimpur and Kharagpur Sadar in West Bengal went to by-elections on November 25.

The Gazette Notification for these polls was issued on October 30 and the last date for filing nominations was November 6.

In West Bengal, these are the first polls after the 2019 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-passes-bill-to-amend-spg-act-264946">Lok Sabha</a> elections in which BJP had won 18 out of the 42 seats.&nbsp;

After the Trinamool Congress (TMC) won the Kaliaganj Assembly by-polls and is currently leading in on rest of the two seats, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said politics of arrogance won`t work, people have rejected the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

After the Trinamool Congress (TMC) won the Kaliaganj Assembly by-polls and is currently leading in on rest of the two seats, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said politics of arrogance won`t work, people have rejected the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The All India Trinamool Congress party took to its twitter handle and shared a picture featuring Banerjee with mention of her reaction on the poll results. "West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on TMC winning 1 and currently leading on rest of the 2 seats in the by-elections: This is a victory of people. This is a victory of development. Politics of arrogance will not work. People have rejected the BJP," All India Trinamool Congress tweeted. #BengalWithDidi @MamataOfficial reacts on big 3-0 #BengalBypolls win pic.twitter.com/X0wGSkkYA5 — All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) November 28, 2019 × "This is the first time we are winning in Kharagpur and Kaliaganj. Minorities, Adivasis, Rajbanshi--everyone has voted for us. Courtesy is the culture of Bengal," All India Trinamool Congress added. TMC candidate Tapan Deb Singha on Thursday registered a win from Kaliaganj assembly by-election with a margin of over 2,000 votes. TMC candidates are also leading in Karimpur and Kharagpur Sadar seats as per official Election Commission (EC) trends. Pithoragarh in Uttarakhand and Kaliaganj (SC), Karimpur and Kharagpur Sadar in West Bengal went to by-elections on November 25. The Gazette Notification for these polls was issued on October 30 and the last date for filing nominations was November 6. In West Bengal, these are the first polls after the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in which BJP had won 18 out of the 42 seats.

Politics of arrogance won't work, people have rejected BJP: Mamata on bypoll trends

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, and DMK president have been invited for the swearing-in ceremony of Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray as Maharashtra Chief Minister.

Speaking about the invitations given to various political leaders, Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde said that the party has invited Sonia Gandhi for the oath-ceremony.

Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar said that the invitation for the event has been sent to Congress Chief Ministers, Stalin, Mamata, and Kejriwal.

Thackeray, Shiv Sena chief and the leader of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi'&nbsp;led by Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress will take oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Thursday (tomorrow) at Shivaji Park at 6.40 pm.

Around 400 farmers from various districts of Maharashtra have been invited for Thackeray's swearing-in ceremony.

"Around 400 farmers from various districts of Maharashtra have been invited for Uddhav Thackeray's swearing-in ceremony tomorrow. To give respect to the farmers, family members of those farmers who committed suicide have also been invited," Sena leader Vinayak Raut said.

On Tuesday, Thackeray was unanimously elected as the leader of the tri-party alliance.

The political development came after BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis submitted his resignation as Chief Minister to the Governor on Tuesday as "the BJP fell short of the required number of MLAs to win the scheduled floor test".

Supreme Court had asked the Fadnavis government to prove its majority in the 288-member Assembly before 5 pm on Wednesday.

In a sudden turn of events, both Fadnavis and NCP leader Ajit Pawar were administered oath as the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of the state, respectively, on Saturday morning, nixing Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP's bid to form government in the state.

 
&nbsp;

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, and DMK president have been invited for the swearing-in ceremony of Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray as Maharashtra Chief Minister.

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, and DMK president have been invited for the swearing-in ceremony of Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray as Maharashtra Chief Minister. Speaking about the invitations given to various political leaders, Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde said that the party has invited Sonia Gandhi for the oath-ceremony. Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar said that the invitation for the event has been sent to Congress Chief Ministers, Stalin, Mamata, and Kejriwal. Thackeray, Shiv Sena chief and the leader of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' led by Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress will take oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Thursday (tomorrow) at Shivaji Park at 6.40 pm. Around 400 farmers from various districts of Maharashtra have been invited for Thackeray's swearing-in ceremony. "Around 400 farmers from various districts of Maharashtra have been invited for Uddhav Thackeray's swearing-in ceremony tomorrow. To give respect to the farmers, family members of those farmers who committed suicide have also been invited," Sena leader Vinayak Raut said. On Tuesday, Thackeray was unanimously elected as the leader of the tri-party alliance. The political development came after BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis submitted his resignation as Chief Minister to the Governor on Tuesday as "the BJP fell short of the required number of MLAs to win the scheduled floor test". Supreme Court had asked the Fadnavis government to prove its majority in the 288-member Assembly before 5 pm on Wednesday. In a sudden turn of events, both Fadnavis and NCP leader Ajit Pawar were administered oath as the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of the state, respectively, on Saturday morning, nixing Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP's bid to form government in the state.

Sonia, Mamata, Kejriwal, Stalin among invitees for Uddhav Thackeray's swearing-in as CM

Bangladesh Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-cricket-diplomacy-bangladesh-pm-sheikh-hasina-cm-mamta-banerjee-to-meet-on-sidelines-of-pink-ball-test-in-kolkata-263781">Sheikh Hasina</a> arrived in Kolkata on Friday where she will inaugurate the first pink-ball day-night test match between India and Bangladesh.

Bangladesh Premier was received by Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief, Sourav Ganguly as she arrived at the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport.

PM Hasina along with the state chief minister Mamata Banerjee will go to the Eden Gardens Stadium where the match will be held and ring the ceremonial bell at about 12:30 pm. After the toss, the play will start at 1:00 pm.

After watching the first session of the second Test match, Hasina will return to the hotel.

After the end of the first day's play, the premier will attend a small cultural program followed by a felicitation program arranged by the Cricket Association of Bengal(CAB) at Eden Gardens Stadium.

She will also attend a one-to-one meeting with Banerjee on the sidelines of the match. The focus of the discussion is not known yet.

Meanwhile, to mark the historic occasion all major landmarks of Kolkata city like the Big Ben on Laketown, Howrah Bridge, Tata Centre, Eden Gardens, the Elliot Park, and Shahid Minar are turned pink to mark the occasion.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina arrived in Kolkata on Friday where she will inaugurate the first pink-ball day-night test match between India and Bangladesh.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina arrived in Kolkata on Friday where she will inaugurate the first pink-ball day-night test match between India and Bangladesh. Bangladesh Premier was received by Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief, Sourav Ganguly as she arrived at the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport. PM Hasina along with the state chief minister Mamata Banerjee will go to the Eden Gardens Stadium where the match will be held and ring the ceremonial bell at about 12:30 pm. After the toss, the play will start at 1:00 pm. After watching the first session of the second Test match, Hasina will return to the hotel. After the end of the first day's play, the premier will attend a small cultural program followed by a felicitation program arranged by the Cricket Association of Bengal(CAB) at Eden Gardens Stadium. She will also attend a one-to-one meeting with Banerjee on the sidelines of the match. The focus of the discussion is not known yet. Meanwhile, to mark the historic occasion all major landmarks of Kolkata city like the Big Ben on Laketown, Howrah Bridge, Tata Centre, Eden Gardens, the Elliot Park, and Shahid Minar are turned pink to mark the occasion.

'Pink ball' Test: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina arrives in Kolkata

By Mallika Singh

Kolkata's Eden Garden is getting ready to host the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/at-long-last-india-ready-to-take-day-night-test-plunge-263379">'Pink Test</a>' between India and Bangladesh to be played at the historic venue on Friday.

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The city never lets down sport .. pink test a big occasion @bcci@cab.. the Sahid minar goes pink <a href="https://t.co/SNqnbjSrAa">pic.twitter.com/SNqnbjSrAa</a>
— Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99/status/1197174007314796544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It will be a maiden day-night Test for both sides which is expected to be attended by several dignitaries including Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee who are to ring the customary Eden Bell. &nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief Sourav Ganguly confirmed that tickets for the first four days were sold out.

Indian captain Virat Kohli drew comparisons between the match on Friday to the 2016 T20 World Cup match against Pakistan, saying that it would be nice to play a Test in front of 80,000 spectators, giving “a big boost to all players.”

However, the Indian captain cautioned that day/night Tests should not become the only way for the long format of the game.

"In my opinion, the day/night Test should not become the only way in which the longest format of the game is played because then you are losing out on the nervousness which is created in the first session of the match. You can bring excitement to Test cricket, but you cannot make the longest format of the game adhere just to the excitement," Kohli told reporters.

India is the second Asian country ever to host the match with Pakistan having hosted the first day/night Test back in 2016 against West Indies, which the hosts won by 56 runs.

BCCI&nbsp;president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-takes-charge-as-president-of-board-for-control-of-cricket-in-india-257654">Sourav Ganguly</a> was seen inspecting the venue pitch on Wednesday, while BCCI tweeted a 17-second clip, giving a sneak peek into the ongoing preparations.

"Kolkata gearing up for the #PinkBallTest," said the post in which the Eden Gardens could be seen lit in pink.

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Kolkata gearing up for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PinkBallTest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PinkBallTest</a> 😊😊<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvBAN</a> <a href="https://t.co/16p66AvHTn">pic.twitter.com/16p66AvHTn</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1197060569951436800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Ganguly on Wednesday in a series of tweets called the Test a “big occasion” and a “historic Test match” as he applauded the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) and the BCCI for their efforts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pink-ball-cricket-will-be-the-future-says-india-bowling-coach-bharat-arun-188561">Pink balls</a> are used for day/night encounters&nbsp;as opposed to the traditional red balls for better visibility under lights.

India had last year turned down the offer to play a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-decline-day-night-test-v-australia-135381">day/night Test against Australia</a> in Adelaide.&nbsp;

On India’s decision not to play the match, captain Virat Kohli on Thursday said that the team wanted to play with the pink ball in home conditions first.

“We have not played any first-class games with the pink ball, we wanted to experience it first in our own conditions. It cannot be a sudden thing, you need to prepare. It needed a bit of preparation, once you get the hang of it, then you can play the pink-ball Test," Kohli said.

A total of 11 day-night Tests have been played till date with Australia leading the score charts winning all 5 Tests.&nbsp; Australia had won the first-ever day/night against New Zealand at Adelaide by 3 wickets in 2015.

(With inputs from ANI)

By Mallika Singh Kolkata's Eden Garden is getting ready to host the 'Pink Test' between India and Bangladesh to be played at the historic venue on Friday. The city never lets down sport .

By Mallika Singh Kolkata's Eden Garden is getting ready to host the 'Pink Test' between India and Bangladesh to be played at the historic venue on Friday. The city never lets down sport .. pink test a big occasion @bcci@cab.. the Sahid minar goes pink pic.twitter.com/SNqnbjSrAa — Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) November 20, 2019 × It will be a maiden day-night Test for both sides which is expected to be attended by several dignitaries including Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee who are to ring the customary Eden Bell. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief Sourav Ganguly confirmed that tickets for the first four days were sold out. Indian captain Virat Kohli drew comparisons between the match on Friday to the 2016 T20 World Cup match against Pakistan, saying that it would be nice to play a Test in front of 80,000 spectators, giving “a big boost to all players.” However, the Indian captain cautioned that day/night Tests should not become the only way for the long format of the game. "In my opinion, the day/night Test should not become the only way in which the longest format of the game is played because then you are losing out on the nervousness which is created in the first session of the match. You can bring excitement to Test cricket, but you cannot make the longest format of the game adhere just to the excitement," Kohli told reporters. India is the second Asian country ever to host the match with Pakistan having hosted the first day/night Test back in 2016 against West Indies, which the hosts won by 56 runs. BCCI president Sourav Ganguly was seen inspecting the venue pitch on Wednesday, while BCCI tweeted a 17-second clip, giving a sneak peek into the ongoing preparations. "Kolkata gearing up for the #PinkBallTest," said the post in which the Eden Gardens could be seen lit in pink. Kolkata gearing up for the #PinkBallTest 😊😊#TeamIndia #INDvBAN pic.twitter.com/16p66AvHTn — BCCI (@BCCI) November 20, 2019 × Ganguly on Wednesday in a series of tweets called the Test a “big occasion” and a “historic Test match” as he applauded the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) and the BCCI for their efforts. Pink balls are used for day/night encounters as opposed to the traditional red balls for better visibility under lights. India had last year turned down the offer to play a day/night Test against Australia in Adelaide. On India’s decision not to play the match, captain Virat Kohli on Thursday said that the team wanted to play with the pink ball in home conditions first. “We have not played any first-class games with the pink ball, we wanted to experience it first in our own conditions. It cannot be a sudden thing, you need to prepare. It needed a bit of preparation, once you get the hang of it, then you can play the pink-ball Test," Kohli said. A total of 11 day-night Tests have been played till date with Australia leading the score charts winning all 5 Tests. Australia had won the first-ever day/night against New Zealand at Adelaide by 3 wickets in 2015. (With inputs from ANI)

Second Test: India, Bangladesh set to play first day/night Test at Eden tomorrow

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee regarding the ''situation arising out of Cyclone Bulbul and assured her of all possible help from the centre''.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee regarding the ''situation arising out of Cyclone Bulbul and assured her of all possible help from the centre''. "Reviewed the situation in the wake of cyclone conditions and heavy rain in parts of Eastern India. Spoke to West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee regarding the situation arising due to Cyclone Bulbul. Assured all possible assistance from the Centre. I pray for everyone`s safety and well-being," Modi`s tweeted on Sunday morning. Reviewed the situation in the wake of cyclone conditions and heavy rain in parts of Eastern India. Spoke to WB CM @MamataOfficial regarding the situation arising due to Cyclone Bulbul. Assured all possible assistance from the Centre. I pray for everyone’s safety and well-being. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 10, 2019 × As per the India Meteorological Department (IMD), cyclonic storm Bulbul lay centred about 75 km east-northeast of Sundarban National Park in West Bengal. IMD`s recent tweet read, "The cyclone is likely to weaken into a deep depression over coastal Bangladesh and adjoining south and north 24 Parganas districts of West Bengal during next six hours." As per IMD`s hourly bulletin released at 7:00 am, the weather agency stated that the `severe` cyclonic storm Bulbul has weakened into a cyclonic storm and lay centred at 05:30 hours of today, over Bangladesh and adjoining coastal West Bengal, reported news agency ANI. IMD has further predicted light to moderate rainfall with isolated heavy spells of rainfall likely to continue over the south and north 24 Parganas and Nadiya districts in West Bengal during the next three hours. "Squally wind speed 35-45 kmph gusting to 55 kmph is likely to prevail over northwest Bay of Bengal off West Bengal coast during the next six hours," said IMD in its advisory. The cyclone had made landfall around 8.30 pm on Saturday 60 kilometres east of Sagar Island and 100 kilometres south of Kolkata. (With inputs from ANI)

Cyclone Bulbul: PM Modi speaks to Mamata Banerjee, assures help

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday announced that the state government will soon implement a social security scheme to provide financial assistance to media personnel.

She made the announcement on the 'International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists'&nbsp;which is being observed today.

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Today is the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists. Apart from the health insurance scheme ‘Mabhoi’ for accredited journalists, our Govt in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bangla?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bangla</a> is soon going to implement a social security scheme to provide financial assistance to media personnel
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial/status/1190455989679656960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

November 2 is marked as the 'International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists'&nbsp;after a resolution condemning attacks and violence against journalists and media workers was passed in the General Assembly Resolution in 2013.

According to the UN, the resolution urged the Member States to implement definite measures countering the present culture of impunity.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday announced that the state government will soon implement a social security scheme to provide financial assistance to media personnel.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday announced that the state government will soon implement a social security scheme to provide financial assistance to media personnel. She made the announcement on the 'International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists' which is being observed today. Today is the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists. Apart from the health insurance scheme ‘Mabhoi’ for accredited journalists, our Govt in #Bangla is soon going to implement a social security scheme to provide financial assistance to media personnel — Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) November 2, 2019 × November 2 is marked as the 'International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists' after a resolution condemning attacks and violence against journalists and media workers was passed in the General Assembly Resolution in 2013. According to the UN, the resolution urged the Member States to implement definite measures countering the present culture of impunity.

Mamata announces to roll out social security scheme for media personnel soon

More than 100 migrant workers from Kashmir will be moved after a spate of killings by suspected separatist militants underlined the threat to outsiders in the restive region.

More than 100 migrant workers from Kashmir will be moved after a spate of killings by suspected separatist militants underlined the threat to outsiders in the restive region. Senior officials working for the chief minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, said on Saturday she decided to move the workers out of Kashmir to prevent them from becoming a potential target for militant groups who the government says have intensified attacks on civilians belonging to states except Kashmir. The migrant workers will be identified and moved by train to eastern states, the officials said. Last week, suspected militants barged into a house in southern Kashmir, marched out six men who had come to work in the orchards and paddy fields from West Bengal, lined them up and shot them, police said. Five died, a sixth, who the gunmen had left for dead, survived, to tell the tale that has fanned fears of further attacks on outsiders, officials say. "We have orders from the state leader to escort all the Bengali labourers out of Kashmir after five Muslim labourers from West Bengal were killed," said a senior police official in Kolkata. Migrant workers are a soft target for militants, and during the past few weeks 11 have been killed, including the victims of this latest atrocity, the government said. Much of Kashmir's economy is dependent on outside labourers who work in construction, hotels and apple orchards. None of the militant groups that are fighting Indian rule in Muslim majority Kashmir claimed responsibility for the attack on migrant workers. The separatist insurgency in Kashmir began three decades ago, but the latest flare up in violence followed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision in August to take away the autonomy previously offered to India's only Muslim majority state. India is hoping that by opening up property rights in Kashmir to people from outside the region it can reignite economic growth, create jobs and turn the focus away from a militant uprising in which more than 40,000 people have died. But for the government to have any chance of succeeding, it will have to remove the growing sense of insecurity among Indians who have risked coming to Kashmir to make a living.

Mamata Banerjee to move migrant workers from Kashmir after violence

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday made a gaffe by repeatedly talking about Nobel Prize laureate Abhijit Banerjee, as 'Abhishek Babu'.

In an apparent slip of tongue, Mamata on Wednesday congratulated Abhijit Banerjee by mentioning him as 'Abhishek Babu'.

"In West Bengal, there are people like Amartya Sen, Mother Teresa who have won the Nobel Prize and now Abhishek Babu (referring to Abhijit Banerjee) has also got a Nobel Prize. Sourav Ganguly got the opportunity (BCCI President post). Bengal is proud and is moving forward," said Mamata while speaking to reporters.

Reportedly, she repeated the same name, 'Abhishek Babu', while informing the reporters about her plan to meet the Nobel laureate's mother.

Abhijit Banerjee, an Indian-origin economist, and the academic professor was jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences.

He won the coveted award along with his French-American wife Esther Duflo and American economist Michael Kremer "for their experimental approach to alleviating global poverty."

On Monday, Ganguly also filed his nomination for the post of BCCI president in Mumbai.Mamata met the family members of Abhijit Banerjee at their residence in Kolkata on Wednesday.

"If more people like Abhijit Banerjee continue their work for the society, we will be happy," the Chief Minister said after meeting the family.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday made a gaffe by repeatedly talking about Nobel Prize laureate Abhijit Banerjee, as 'Abhishek Babu'. In an apparent slip of tongue, Mamata on Wednesday congratulated Abhijit Banerjee by mentioning him as 'Abhishek Babu'.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday made a gaffe by repeatedly talking about Nobel Prize laureate Abhijit Banerjee, as 'Abhishek Babu'. In an apparent slip of tongue, Mamata on Wednesday congratulated Abhijit Banerjee by mentioning him as 'Abhishek Babu'. "In West Bengal, there are people like Amartya Sen, Mother Teresa who have won the Nobel Prize and now Abhishek Babu (referring to Abhijit Banerjee) has also got a Nobel Prize. Sourav Ganguly got the opportunity (BCCI President post). Bengal is proud and is moving forward," said Mamata while speaking to reporters. Reportedly, she repeated the same name, 'Abhishek Babu', while informing the reporters about her plan to meet the Nobel laureate's mother. Abhijit Banerjee, an Indian-origin economist, and the academic professor was jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences. He won the coveted award along with his French-American wife Esther Duflo and American economist Michael Kremer "for their experimental approach to alleviating global poverty." On Monday, Ganguly also filed his nomination for the post of BCCI president in Mumbai.Mamata met the family members of Abhijit Banerjee at their residence in Kolkata on Wednesday. "If more people like Abhijit Banerjee continue their work for the society, we will be happy," the Chief Minister said after meeting the family.

Mamata commits gaffe, lauds 'Abhishek Babu' as Nobel Prize winner

The West Bengal has ensured food security to more than 8.5 crore people residing in the state under the `Khadya Sathi` scheme, claimed Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on the occasion of World Food Day.

Taking to the micro-blogging site, CM Banerjee said, "Today is #WorldFoodDay. We have ensured the food security of more than 8.5 crore people of #Bangla through Khadya Sathi Scheme."

The Trinamool Congress president also stated that her government has provided special assistance to the people of Jangalmahal and Hill areas besides Aila-affected areas and farmers of Singur, tea garden workers as well as the Toto tribe.

"Special assistance is also provided to the people of Jangalmahal and Hill areas, Aila-affected areas, farmers of Singur, tea garden workers &amp; Toto tribe," she added.

World Food Day is celebrated worldwide on this day. It calls for action across sectors to make healthy and sustainable diets affordable and accessible to everyone.

At the same time, it calls on everyone to start thinking about what we eat.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The West Bengal has ensured food security to more than 8.5 crore people residing in the state under the `Khadya Sathi` scheme, claimed Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on the occasion of World Food Day.

The West Bengal has ensured food security to more than 8.5 crore people residing in the state under the `Khadya Sathi` scheme, claimed Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on the occasion of World Food Day. Taking to the micro-blogging site, CM Banerjee said, "Today is #WorldFoodDay. We have ensured the food security of more than 8.5 crore people of #Bangla through Khadya Sathi Scheme." The Trinamool Congress president also stated that her government has provided special assistance to the people of Jangalmahal and Hill areas besides Aila-affected areas and farmers of Singur, tea garden workers as well as the Toto tribe. "Special assistance is also provided to the people of Jangalmahal and Hill areas, Aila-affected areas, farmers of Singur, tea garden workers & Toto tribe," she added. World Food Day is celebrated worldwide on this day. It calls for action across sectors to make healthy and sustainable diets affordable and accessible to everyone. At the same time, it calls on everyone to start thinking about what we eat.

Ensured food security of over 8.5 crore Bangla people through Khadya Sathi scheme: Mamata

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday made it clear that the National Register of Citizens (NRC) will not be implemented and no one will be pushed out from the state.

Accusing the BJP of using NRC as a political tool, Banerjee urged the voters to check the names in the list which was being updated.

"BJP has negatively publicised NRC. They are promoting it as a political tool. NRC will not come to Bengal. Nobody will be pushed out of Bengal. People who have been living in Bengal for so many years, they will stay here the same way," she told reporters.

"Voter list is being renewed, so I would urge you to check whether your name is in voter list. Have faith in me, NRC will not happen here," Banerjee said.

On Thursday, Banerjee had met Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi where she raised the issue of Assam NRC in which 19 lakh people were excluded.

The TMC supremo had reiterated her today's statement that the exercise will not be implemented in West Bengal.

In the final NRC list published on August 31 for Assam, a total of 3,11,21,004 persons are found eligible for inclusion in final list leaving out 19,06,657 persons, including those who did not submit their claims.

The list is aimed at segregating Indian citizens living in Assam from those who had illegally entered the state from Bangladesh.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday made it clear that the National Register of Citizens (NRC) will not be implemented and no one will be pushed out from the state.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday made it clear that the National Register of Citizens (NRC) will not be implemented and no one will be pushed out from the state. Accusing the BJP of using NRC as a political tool, Banerjee urged the voters to check the names in the list which was being updated. "BJP has negatively publicised NRC. They are promoting it as a political tool. NRC will not come to Bengal. Nobody will be pushed out of Bengal. People who have been living in Bengal for so many years, they will stay here the same way," she told reporters. "Voter list is being renewed, so I would urge you to check whether your name is in voter list. Have faith in me, NRC will not happen here," Banerjee said. On Thursday, Banerjee had met Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi where she raised the issue of Assam NRC in which 19 lakh people were excluded. The TMC supremo had reiterated her today's statement that the exercise will not be implemented in West Bengal. In the final NRC list published on August 31 for Assam, a total of 3,11,21,004 persons are found eligible for inclusion in final list leaving out 19,06,657 persons, including those who did not submit their claims. The list is aimed at segregating Indian citizens living in Assam from those who had illegally entered the state from Bangladesh.

NRC won't come to Bengal, nobody will be pushed out: Mamata Banerjee

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee met Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday and said she raised the contentious issue of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) with him.

"Had come here to discuss the 19 lakh people not included in the NRC. They should all be included in it," Mamata said after the meeting at Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) here.

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West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on her meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah: He did not say anything about NRC in West Bengal. I have already clarified my stand that NRC is not needed in West Bengal. <a href="https://t.co/XyJEpyk5JY">https://t.co/XyJEpyk5JY</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1174602019086196737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The chief minister had yesterday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, her first meeting with him after general elections. During her meeting with Modi, the issue of West Bengal's name change to Bangla was discussed. The Chief Minister made it clear that any suggestion from the Centre will be accepted.

"Bengal is open to any 'addition or alternation' on the name change," Banerjee had said. The Chief Minister specifically mentioned that the meeting was "government to government sans political interferences".

At present, BJP is the key opponent of TMC after the former performed exceptionally well in West Bengal during the Lok Sabha elections, where the party won 18 seats.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee met Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday and said she raised the contentious issue of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) with him.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee met Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday and said she raised the contentious issue of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) with him. "Had come here to discuss the 19 lakh people not included in the NRC. They should all be included in it," Mamata said after the meeting at Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) here. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on her meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah: He did not say anything about NRC in West Bengal. I have already clarified my stand that NRC is not needed in West Bengal. https://t.co/XyJEpyk5JY — ANI (@ANI) September 19, 2019 × The chief minister had yesterday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, her first meeting with him after general elections. During her meeting with Modi, the issue of West Bengal's name change to Bangla was discussed. The Chief Minister made it clear that any suggestion from the Centre will be accepted. "Bengal is open to any 'addition or alternation' on the name change," Banerjee had said. The Chief Minister specifically mentioned that the meeting was "government to government sans political interferences". At present, BJP is the key opponent of TMC after the former performed exceptionally well in West Bengal during the Lok Sabha elections, where the party won 18 seats.

Mamata banerjee meets Amit Shah, says discussed issue of 19 lakh exculded from NRC

In her first meeting after the general elections, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi here and termed it as "good".

This is also Banerjee's first meeting with the Prime Minister after two years and the first after he was elected to power for the second time in bitterly-fought elections including in West Bengal where the BJP has made spectacular gains.

"We had a good meeting. I had plans to meet the Prime Minister but due to some unwanted incidents the plan could not take shape," she said.

During the meeting, the issue of West Bengal's name change to Bangla was discussed. The Chief Minister made it clear that any suggestion from the Centre will be accepted.

"Bengal is open to any 'addition or alternation'&nbsp;on the name change," Banerjee said.

The Chief Minister specifically mentioned that the meeting was "government to government sans political interferences".

"We need to keep faith in the Constitution and democracy.

Both state government and central government are elected and need to work towards development," Banerjee remarked.

Other issues discussed in the meeting were the merger of public sector banks. Moreover, Banerjee handed over a prepared plan to the Prime Minister on how West Bengal performed in the last eight years.

The TMC supremo arrived in the national capital on Tuesday to pay a courtesy call with the Prime Minister.

Banerjee said she will seek an appointment with Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday.

At present, BJP is the key opponent of TMC after the former performed exceptionally well in West Bengal during the Lok Sabha elections, where the party won 18 seats.

In her first meeting after the general elections, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi here and termed it as "good".

In her first meeting after the general elections, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi here and termed it as "good". This is also Banerjee's first meeting with the Prime Minister after two years and the first after he was elected to power for the second time in bitterly-fought elections including in West Bengal where the BJP has made spectacular gains. "We had a good meeting. I had plans to meet the Prime Minister but due to some unwanted incidents the plan could not take shape," she said. During the meeting, the issue of West Bengal's name change to Bangla was discussed. The Chief Minister made it clear that any suggestion from the Centre will be accepted. "Bengal is open to any 'addition or alternation' on the name change," Banerjee said. The Chief Minister specifically mentioned that the meeting was "government to government sans political interferences". "We need to keep faith in the Constitution and democracy. Both state government and central government are elected and need to work towards development," Banerjee remarked. Other issues discussed in the meeting were the merger of public sector banks. Moreover, Banerjee handed over a prepared plan to the Prime Minister on how West Bengal performed in the last eight years. The TMC supremo arrived in the national capital on Tuesday to pay a courtesy call with the Prime Minister. Banerjee said she will seek an appointment with Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday. At present, BJP is the key opponent of TMC after the former performed exceptionally well in West Bengal during the Lok Sabha elections, where the party won 18 seats.

Mamata Banerjee meets PM Modi in Delhi, says meeting was 'good'

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, while addressing the media after her courtesy call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday said that the issue of National Register of Citizens of India (NRC) is not applicable to the entire country.

Banerjee specifically mentioned, "NRC comes only under Assam accord and it is not for all over the country."

"There were no discussions on NRC. How can all the issues be raised in one meeting?" she added.

On August 31, the final list of NRC was published with names of 3.11 crore applications on the state list for Assam.

A total of 19 lakhs name have not been included in the list.

With her courtesy meeting figuring high on the national agenda, speculations were rife regarding issues that were raised with the Prime Minister.

Banerjee told the media that her meeting with Prime Minister "was good."

"In today's meeting, issues such as state`s name change and public sector banks have been discussed," she said.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, while addressing the media after her courtesy call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday said that the issue of National Register of Citizens of India (NRC) is not applicable to the entire country.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, while addressing the media after her courtesy call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday said that the issue of National Register of Citizens of India (NRC) is not applicable to the entire country. Banerjee specifically mentioned, "NRC comes only under Assam accord and it is not for all over the country." "There were no discussions on NRC. How can all the issues be raised in one meeting?" she added. On August 31, the final list of NRC was published with names of 3.11 crore applications on the state list for Assam. A total of 19 lakhs name have not been included in the list. With her courtesy meeting figuring high on the national agenda, speculations were rife regarding issues that were raised with the Prime Minister. Banerjee told the media that her meeting with Prime Minister "was good." "In today's meeting, issues such as state`s name change and public sector banks have been discussed," she said.

NRC not for the whole country, says West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is likely to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to discuss various issues related to the state.

Banerjee will leave for New Delhi on Tuesday and is likely to meet the Prime Minister next day, West Bengal Secretariat sources said.

The proposed meeting comes at a time when former Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar is being questioned by the CBI in connection with the multi-crore Saradha chit fund scam.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is likely to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to discuss various issues related to the state. Banerjee will leave for New Delhi on Tuesday and is likely to meet the Prime Minister next day, West Bengal Secretariat sources said.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is likely to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to discuss various issues related to the state. Banerjee will leave for New Delhi on Tuesday and is likely to meet the Prime Minister next day, West Bengal Secretariat sources said. The proposed meeting comes at a time when former Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar is being questioned by the CBI in connection with the multi-crore Saradha chit fund scam.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee likely to meet PM Modi on Wednesday

West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee faced double blow when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) not only returned to power with a thumping majority in Lok Sabha elections, but also made inroads in the state by winning 18 seats out of 42 Lok Sabha seats.

This holds significance here because the BJP had won just two seats in 2014 Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

She ran from pillar to post to unite all like-minded parties against the BJP. Mamata had declared that TMC will lead in throwing out the NDA government from power and forming the new government at the Centre, and thus, BJP's spectacular performance was a huge setback to didi.

This is when poll strategist Prashant Kishor came to her rescue for her image makeover and to prepare the battlefield for 2021 Assembly elections. &nbsp;

Banerjee's recent campaign - 'Didi Ke Bolo' (Talk to didi) attracted over 10 lakh responses in 30 days. The campaign was launched for the aggrieved people to reach out to the state government with their grievances.&nbsp;

Another campaign was launched by the TMC to connect with the masses - 'Grame Chalo' wherein the party functionaries visit homes in villages to speak to common people.&nbsp;

The party also came out with a Twitter page - "Aamar Gorbo Mamata' (Mamata My Pride) where netizens were asked to share why they are proud of Mamata Banerjee and post appreciation for development work done by her government.

The campaigns have been devised by Prashant Kishor to help Mamata regain her grassroots connect in West Bengal and let people know that their chief minister is accessible and approachable.&nbsp;

TMC also wants to overhaul its image of being a party which indulges in minority appeasement. Mamata, accused of dividing people of the state on the religious lines to secure its vote bank, is trying to balance it out after the Lok Sabha election results.

Earlier, Prashant Kishor helped Narendra Modi become Gujarat chief minister for the third time in 2012. Following which, he was roped in by the BJP for 2014 Lok Sabha elections.

His campaigns for Nitish Kumar in 2015 Bihar Assembly elections, Amarinder Singh in 2017 Punjab Assembly elections and Jagan Mohan Reddy in 2019 generated positive results.

With the increased use of social media and a strategy to build a direct connect with the electorate, Mamata intends to prepare a firm ground to take on the BJP in 2021 Assembly elections.&nbsp;

An image makeover is need of the hour for Mamata Banerjee, who must appear more temperate and gentler to counter organised and ideology-driven BJP.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee faced double blow when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) not only returned to power with a thumping majority in Lok Sabha elections, but also made inroads in the state by winning 18 seats out of 42 Lok Sabha seats.

West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee faced double blow when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) not only returned to power with a thumping majority in Lok Sabha elections, but also made inroads in the state by winning 18 seats out of 42 Lok Sabha seats. This holds significance here because the BJP had won just two seats in 2014 Lok Sabha elections. She ran from pillar to post to unite all like-minded parties against the BJP. Mamata had declared that TMC will lead in throwing out the NDA government from power and forming the new government at the Centre, and thus, BJP's spectacular performance was a huge setback to didi. This is when poll strategist Prashant Kishor came to her rescue for her image makeover and to prepare the battlefield for 2021 Assembly elections. Banerjee's recent campaign - 'Didi Ke Bolo' (Talk to didi) attracted over 10 lakh responses in 30 days. The campaign was launched for the aggrieved people to reach out to the state government with their grievances. Another campaign was launched by the TMC to connect with the masses - 'Grame Chalo' wherein the party functionaries visit homes in villages to speak to common people. The party also came out with a Twitter page - "Aamar Gorbo Mamata' (Mamata My Pride) where netizens were asked to share why they are proud of Mamata Banerjee and post appreciation for development work done by her government. The campaigns have been devised by Prashant Kishor to help Mamata regain her grassroots connect in West Bengal and let people know that their chief minister is accessible and approachable. TMC also wants to overhaul its image of being a party which indulges in minority appeasement. Mamata, accused of dividing people of the state on the religious lines to secure its vote bank, is trying to balance it out after the Lok Sabha election results. Earlier, Prashant Kishor helped Narendra Modi become Gujarat chief minister for the third time in 2012. Following which, he was roped in by the BJP for 2014 Lok Sabha elections. His campaigns for Nitish Kumar in 2015 Bihar Assembly elections, Amarinder Singh in 2017 Punjab Assembly elections and Jagan Mohan Reddy in 2019 generated positive results. With the increased use of social media and a strategy to build a direct connect with the electorate, Mamata intends to prepare a firm ground to take on the BJP in 2021 Assembly elections. An image makeover is need of the hour for Mamata Banerjee, who must appear more temperate and gentler to counter organised and ideology-driven BJP. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Mamata Banerjee trying hard for image makeover

At a time when West Bengal is reeling under a debt burden, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday announced a Durga Puja ‘gift’ to the organisers that would cost the state exchequer as much as Rs 70 crore.

As many as 3,000 Durga Pujas are organized in Kolkata, while the rest of Bengal witnesses over 25,000 Durga Pujas pandals across the state. Each of these 28,000 Durga Puja committees would be 'gifted' Rs 25,000 increased from Rs 10,000 given last year.

Banerjee also announced an additional Rs 5,000 for the Durga Puja committees which are managed by women only. This apart, she also announced that CESC and WBSEDCL – electricity supply boards in Kolkata and West Bengal - respectively will offer a 25 per cent concession on the total electricity bill of each of the puja pandals. &nbsp;

“We are a poor man’s government but we still try our best for the Durga puja committees. Instead of Rs 10,000 given last year, we are increasing it to Rs 25,000 this year. I am aware that the economic condition of the Durga puja committees is not very well and the electricity unit prices have also risen hence we are offering a 25 per cent discount on electricity bills. Kolkata Municipal Corporation tax has also been eradicated,” said Banerjee.

The Mamata Banerjee-government inherited a debt of around Rs 2 lakh crore from the Left Front government when it came to power back in 2011. However, the chief minister and state finance minister Amit Mitra have been raising the issue of a waiver of the debt time and again with the Centre.&nbsp;

While the total loan repayment figure for the year 2018-19 stood at Rs 49,656 crore, it rose to Rs 56,183.16 crore for the year 2019-20.

This is not the first time when the Bengal government has announced Durga puja ‘gift’ for the puja committees. Last year, an amount of Rs 10,000 was given to as many as 28,000 puja committees costing an amount of Rs 28 crore to the state exchequer.

At a time when West Bengal is reeling under a debt burden, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday announced a Durga Puja ‘gift’ to the organisers that would cost the state exchequer as much as Rs 70 crore.

At a time when West Bengal is reeling under a debt burden, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday announced a Durga Puja ‘gift’ to the organisers that would cost the state exchequer as much as Rs 70 crore. As many as 3,000 Durga Pujas are organized in Kolkata, while the rest of Bengal witnesses over 25,000 Durga Pujas pandals across the state. Each of these 28,000 Durga Puja committees would be 'gifted' Rs 25,000 increased from Rs 10,000 given last year. Banerjee also announced an additional Rs 5,000 for the Durga Puja committees which are managed by women only. This apart, she also announced that CESC and WBSEDCL – electricity supply boards in Kolkata and West Bengal - respectively will offer a 25 per cent concession on the total electricity bill of each of the puja pandals. “We are a poor man’s government but we still try our best for the Durga puja committees. Instead of Rs 10,000 given last year, we are increasing it to Rs 25,000 this year. I am aware that the economic condition of the Durga puja committees is not very well and the electricity unit prices have also risen hence we are offering a 25 per cent discount on electricity bills. Kolkata Municipal Corporation tax has also been eradicated,” said Banerjee. The Mamata Banerjee-government inherited a debt of around Rs 2 lakh crore from the Left Front government when it came to power back in 2011. However, the chief minister and state finance minister Amit Mitra have been raising the issue of a waiver of the debt time and again with the Centre. While the total loan repayment figure for the year 2018-19 stood at Rs 49,656 crore, it rose to Rs 56,183.16 crore for the year 2019-20. This is not the first time when the Bengal government has announced Durga puja ‘gift’ for the puja committees. Last year, an amount of Rs 10,000 was given to as many as 28,000 puja committees costing an amount of Rs 28 crore to the state exchequer.

Debt-ridden Mamata Banerjee government 'gifts' Rs 70 crore to West Bengal Durga Puja organisers

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray met Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata on Wednesday and called for the return of ballot boxes.

Thackeray on a two-day visit to Kolkata met Banerjee on the second day at the Bengal state secretariat – Nabanna and his meeting lasted for around half an hour with her.

Thackeray called for the return of ballot boxes in the elections. “We discussed electoral reforms in the meeting. We want the elections to be conducted in ballot boxes. When most countries have done away with the EVMs, we are still using it. Questions are being raised on the credibility of EVMs,” said Thackeray.

He added, “We want the Maharashtra Assembly elections to be conducted through the ballot boxes instead of the EVMs.” Asked on whether he will move court demanding ballot boxes he said, “I have no faith in the High Court and Supreme Court.”

The MNS chief stated that he came to Kolkata to also invite the TMC supremo Mamata for a ‘Save Democracy’ programme to be held in Maharashtra on August 21.&nbsp;

“I came here to invite her. We want her to attend the programme. We want other regional parties to also join us in our demand for ballot boxes,” he added.

However, Banerjee said that she was yet to confirm whether she will be able to attend the program or not considering her prior commitments.

“We had fruitful discussions over our demand of ballot boxes. Earlier, Thackeray has met the UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi in Delhi and he has discussed it with the senior leaders of Congress as well. We had also demanded the elections be conducted in ballot boxes. Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, we had approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) and Supreme Court raising similar demands. But, our plea was rejected. Elections through ballot boxes will be free and fair,” said Banerjee.

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray met Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata on Wednesday and called for the return of ballot boxes.

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray met Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata on Wednesday and called for the return of ballot boxes. Thackeray on a two-day visit to Kolkata met Banerjee on the second day at the Bengal state secretariat – Nabanna and his meeting lasted for around half an hour with her. Thackeray called for the return of ballot boxes in the elections. “We discussed electoral reforms in the meeting. We want the elections to be conducted in ballot boxes. When most countries have done away with the EVMs, we are still using it. Questions are being raised on the credibility of EVMs,” said Thackeray. He added, “We want the Maharashtra Assembly elections to be conducted through the ballot boxes instead of the EVMs.” Asked on whether he will move court demanding ballot boxes he said, “I have no faith in the High Court and Supreme Court.” The MNS chief stated that he came to Kolkata to also invite the TMC supremo Mamata for a ‘Save Democracy’ programme to be held in Maharashtra on August 21. “I came here to invite her. We want her to attend the programme. We want other regional parties to also join us in our demand for ballot boxes,” he added. However, Banerjee said that she was yet to confirm whether she will be able to attend the program or not considering her prior commitments. “We had fruitful discussions over our demand of ballot boxes. Earlier, Thackeray has met the UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi in Delhi and he has discussed it with the senior leaders of Congress as well. We had also demanded the elections be conducted in ballot boxes. Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, we had approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) and Supreme Court raising similar demands. But, our plea was rejected. Elections through ballot boxes will be free and fair,” said Banerjee.

MNS Chief Raj Thackeray meets TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee calls for return of ballot boxes

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) supremo Raj Thackeray on Wednesday met West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee and discussed use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in elections.

He invited the TMC supremo to attend a 'morcha' (protest) in Mumbai. "I came to meet her on the issue of use of EVMs in polls. I've invited her for a 'morcha' in Mumbai. She told me that her party is committed towards saving democracy. She said, "Main hun,aisa samajh lena," he told reporters after the meeting.

Thackeray arrived in Kolkata on Tuesday.

Opposition parties had accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of winning the 2019 Lok Sabha elections by tampering EVM machines.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India (ECI) had rejected opposition's accusation, saying that EVMs are tamper-proof and can't be hacked.

Mamata Banerjee was one of the earliest interlocutors of the united opposition. All like-minded anti-BJP parties had come under one umbrella to take on the saffron party in the Lok Sabha polls.

In June, Mamata had asked all the Opposition parties to come together and demand the return of ballot papers. "I ask all the 23 political parties in the opposition to come together and demand the return of ballot papers. We must raise our voices. Even a country like the US has banned EVMs," Banerjee said.&nbsp;

BJP returned to power with a thumping majority securing 303 seats in the Lok Sabha elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) supremo Raj Thackeray on Wednesday met West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee and discussed use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in elections.

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) supremo Raj Thackeray on Wednesday met West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee and discussed use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in elections. He invited the TMC supremo to attend a 'morcha' (protest) in Mumbai. "I came to meet her on the issue of use of EVMs in polls. I've invited her for a 'morcha' in Mumbai. She told me that her party is committed towards saving democracy. She said, "Main hun,aisa samajh lena," he told reporters after the meeting. Thackeray arrived in Kolkata on Tuesday. Opposition parties had accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of winning the 2019 Lok Sabha elections by tampering EVM machines. Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India (ECI) had rejected opposition's accusation, saying that EVMs are tamper-proof and can't be hacked. Mamata Banerjee was one of the earliest interlocutors of the united opposition. All like-minded anti-BJP parties had come under one umbrella to take on the saffron party in the Lok Sabha polls. In June, Mamata had asked all the Opposition parties to come together and demand the return of ballot papers. "I ask all the 23 political parties in the opposition to come together and demand the return of ballot papers. We must raise our voices. Even a country like the US has banned EVMs," Banerjee said. BJP returned to power with a thumping majority securing 303 seats in the Lok Sabha elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Mamata Banerjee is committed towards saving democracy: Raj Thackeray on use of EVMs in elections

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