The political theatre in India ahead of the upcoming general elections is now embroiled in another controversy, this time over seat sharing in Bengal.&nbsp;Trinamool Congress, a key player in the national alliance against the BJP, has declared its intent to go solo in Bengal and fight on all the 42 Lok Sabha seats alone in the 2024 elections.

This decision comes as West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee&nbsp;unleashed her verbal attack on Congress and showed her determination to chart the TMC's own course in the state.&nbsp;

"I had no discussions with the Congress. I have always said that in Bengal, we will fight alone. I gave them (the Congress) many proposals... but they rejected them. I am not concerned about what will be done in the (rest of the) country... but we are a secular party and, in Bengal, we alone will defeat BJP."

Speaking over Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's ongoing yatra, the TMC leader said,&nbsp;"They are coming to my state... but did not have the courtesy to inform me, even though I am part of the INDIA bloc. So there is no relation with me, as far as Bengal is concerned."&nbsp;

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Amid the charged-up electoral atmosphere, Congress has also reacted to the West Bengal CM's remarks.&nbsp;

Congress General Secretary in-charge&nbsp;Communications, Jairam Ramesh said, "TMC is a pillar of the INDIA alliance. We cannot imagine the INDIA alliance without Mamata ji. Tomorrow our Yatra is entering West Bengal. Discussions regarding seat sharing are being done and a result will come soon that will keep everyone satisfied..."

INDIA bloc members joined their hands to oust the prime minister-led BJP government from the Centre. However, the TMC leader while speaking about West Bengal's regional politics said,&nbsp;"INDIA will be present in India (but) in Bengal the Trinamool Congress will fight. In Bengal, it is only Trinamool that can teach the BJP a lesson. It can show the country the path to victory..."&nbsp;

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The drama between TMC and the INDIA bloc started on Tuesday (Jan 23), when Banerjee rebuked Congress' demand for 10-12 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal, her bastion. Reportedly, she had only offered two seats to Congress because of its poor track record in the state.&nbsp;

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A top TMC leader reportedly said, "Our party supremo clearly said that we don't need to think about seat-sharing talks with the Congress. She said that the party had offered two seats to them. But the Congress at times is demanding 10-12 seats."&nbsp;
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(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

The political theatre in India ahead of the upcoming general elections is now embroiled in another controversy, this time over seat sharing in Bengal. Trinamool Congress, a key player in the national alliance against the BJP, has declared its intent to go solo in Bengal and fight on all the 42 Lok Sabha seats alone in the 2024 elections.

The political theatre in India ahead of the upcoming general elections is now embroiled in another controversy, this time over seat sharing in Bengal. Trinamool Congress, a key player in the national alliance against the BJP, has declared its intent to go solo in Bengal and fight on all the 42 Lok Sabha seats alone in the 2024 elections. This decision comes as West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee unleashed her verbal attack on Congress and showed her determination to chart the TMC's own course in the state. "I had no discussions with the Congress. I have always said that in Bengal, we will fight alone. I gave them (the Congress) many proposals... but they rejected them. I am not concerned about what will be done in the (rest of the) country... but we are a secular party and, in Bengal, we alone will defeat BJP." Speaking over Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's ongoing yatra, the TMC leader said, "They are coming to my state... but did not have the courtesy to inform me, even though I am part of the INDIA bloc. So there is no relation with me, as far as Bengal is concerned." Also Read | Indian PM recounts anecdotes illustrating simplicity of Karpoori Thakur on his birth centenary Amid the charged-up electoral atmosphere, Congress has also reacted to the West Bengal CM's remarks. Congress General Secretary in-charge Communications, Jairam Ramesh said, "TMC is a pillar of the INDIA alliance. We cannot imagine the INDIA alliance without Mamata ji. Tomorrow our Yatra is entering West Bengal. Discussions regarding seat sharing are being done and a result will come soon that will keep everyone satisfied..." INDIA bloc members joined their hands to oust the prime minister-led BJP government from the Centre. However, the TMC leader while speaking about West Bengal's regional politics said, "INDIA will be present in India (but) in Bengal the Trinamool Congress will fight. In Bengal, it is only Trinamool that can teach the BJP a lesson. It can show the country the path to victory..." Also Read | Budgeting for growth: India's resilient economy set to shine in 2024 The drama between TMC and the INDIA bloc started on Tuesday (Jan 23), when Banerjee rebuked Congress' demand for 10-12 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal, her bastion. Reportedly, she had only offered two seats to Congress because of its poor track record in the state. Watch | Ram Mandir Ayodhya: Massive crowd breaks cordon, police urge devotees to delay visit × A top TMC leader reportedly said, "Our party supremo clearly said that we don't need to think about seat-sharing talks with the Congress. She said that the party had offered two seats to them. But the Congress at times is demanding 10-12 seats." (With inputs from agencies)

Can TMC's solo act in Bengal shake INDIA alliance? Mamata says will fight on all 42 seats 'alone'

India’s economic intelligence agency Enforcement Directorate (ED) has reportedly issued a lookout notice for Shahjahan Sheikh, a leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) party after the agency’s officials were attacked by a mob for the second time in a row within a span of a few hours in the state of West Bengal.&nbsp;

The team of officials from the central agency were attacked by a mob in the Sandeshkhali village of West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district when they were carrying out raids on Sheikh’s home for his alleged involvement in a million dollar ration distribution scam in the state.&nbsp;

<h2>Why was a lookout notice issued?</h2>

During the raids conducted by the ED late on Friday (Jan 5), the agency focussed its attention on former Bongaon Municipality Chairman and TMC&nbsp;leader Shankar Adhya who was arrested following an extensive search.&nbsp;

The ED reported that a sizeable mob, numbering between 800 and 1000 individuals, launched a violent attack on their officials with the apparent intent to cause harm.

The case for which the raids were conducted pertains&nbsp;to alleged corruption in ration distribution during the COVID-19 lockdown. Sheikh was being investigated due to his reported close links to the state food minister Jyoti Priya Mallick.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-tmc-leader-shankar-adhya-arrested-in-alleged-ration-scam-hours-after-mob-attack-on-ed-officials-677054">India: TMC leader Shankar Adhya arrested in alleged ration scam hours after mob attack on ED officials</a>

The ED issued a lookout notice for Sheikh and his four brothers on Saturday (Jan 6) after&nbsp;reportedly saying&nbsp;that the TMC official tried to cross over to Bangladesh but failed as&nbsp;security along the international border has been heightened due to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-elections-2024-live-polling-begins-as-pm-sheikh-hasina-eyes-another-term-677303">elections in the country.</a>&nbsp;

In a statement, the central agency said that their officials who were accompanied by Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, were “badly attacked by crowds” who they said were suspected to be instigated by “Sheikh and his associates.”

At least three officers were hospitalised after they suffered what the ED has described as “grievous injuries” as the mob marched towards the officials “with an intention to cause death”.&nbsp;

The mob, according to the ED, also snatched official and personal belongings including laptops, wallets and cash. The police said no arrests were made as of Saturday evening but a few people have been detained for questioning.&nbsp;

In the statement, the central agency said that when they arrived at Sheikh’s house on Friday, the door was locked from the inside and the TMC leader refused to open it. “His mobile location at that time indicated that he was inside this house.”

Around half an hour later, the ED officials were&nbsp;taken by surprise after the mob charged them with weapons like lathis, stones, bricks, etc., and gheraoed them.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>FIRs against the ED officials</h2>

The police said that they have registered three FIRs, including one against ED officials.&nbsp;

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One FIR was registered against the central agency’s officials based on a complaint lodged by the caretaker of Sheikh’s house who alleged that the agency officials tried to enter the house without proper documents, according to media reports citing officials.&nbsp;

The second one was filed based on the complaint by ED under several sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) involving rioting and assault on public servants. The third one was suo motu registered by the police against unknown persons for attacking officers of the central agency.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

India’s economic intelligence agency Enforcement Directorate (ED) has reportedly issued a lookout notice for Shahjahan Sheikh, a leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) party after the agency’s officials were attacked by a mob for the second time in a row within a span of a few hours in the state of West Bengal.

India’s economic intelligence agency Enforcement Directorate (ED) has reportedly issued a lookout notice for Shahjahan Sheikh, a leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) party after the agency’s officials were attacked by a mob for the second time in a row within a span of a few hours in the state of West Bengal. The team of officials from the central agency were attacked by a mob in the Sandeshkhali village of West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district when they were carrying out raids on Sheikh’s home for his alleged involvement in a million dollar ration distribution scam in the state. Why was a lookout notice issued? During the raids conducted by the ED late on Friday (Jan 5), the agency focussed its attention on former Bongaon Municipality Chairman and TMC leader Shankar Adhya who was arrested following an extensive search. The ED reported that a sizeable mob, numbering between 800 and 1000 individuals, launched a violent attack on their officials with the apparent intent to cause harm. The case for which the raids were conducted pertains to alleged corruption in ration distribution during the COVID-19 lockdown. Sheikh was being investigated due to his reported close links to the state food minister Jyoti Priya Mallick. ALSO READ | India: TMC leader Shankar Adhya arrested in alleged ration scam hours after mob attack on ED officials The ED issued a lookout notice for Sheikh and his four brothers on Saturday (Jan 6) after reportedly saying that the TMC official tried to cross over to Bangladesh but failed as security along the international border has been heightened due to the elections in the country. In a statement, the central agency said that their officials who were accompanied by Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, were “badly attacked by crowds” who they said were suspected to be instigated by “Sheikh and his associates.” At least three officers were hospitalised after they suffered what the ED has described as “grievous injuries” as the mob marched towards the officials “with an intention to cause death”. The mob, according to the ED, also snatched official and personal belongings including laptops, wallets and cash. The police said no arrests were made as of Saturday evening but a few people have been detained for questioning. In the statement, the central agency said that when they arrived at Sheikh’s house on Friday, the door was locked from the inside and the TMC leader refused to open it. “His mobile location at that time indicated that he was inside this house.” Around half an hour later, the ED officials were taken by surprise after the mob charged them with weapons like lathis, stones, bricks, etc., and gheraoed them. FIRs against the ED officials The police said that they have registered three FIRs, including one against ED officials. ALSO READ | Putin vows to support soldiers fighting in Ukraine while wives of those mobilised protest near Kremlin One FIR was registered against the central agency’s officials based on a complaint lodged by the caretaker of Sheikh’s house who alleged that the agency officials tried to enter the house without proper documents, according to media reports citing officials. The second one was filed based on the complaint by ED under several sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) involving rioting and assault on public servants. The third one was suo motu registered by the police against unknown persons for attacking officers of the central agency. (With inputs from agencies)

India: ED issues lookout notice against TMC’s Shahjahan Sheikh after agency officials attacked by mob

A team of ED officers and CRPF troops were attacked by a mob in West Bengal on Friday during a raid at the house of a local Trinamool leader Sheikh Sajahan. Watch this report to know more.

ED team and CRPF troops attacked during a raid in West Bengal

A leader of one of India's opposition parties in West Bengal, Shankar Adhya, was arrested late on Friday (Jan 5) by the country's economic intelligence agency&nbsp;Enforcement Directorate (ED), in the alleged ration distribution scam.

Shankar Adhya is the former chairman of Bangaon municipality in West Bengal and was arrested following an extensive search by the ED in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district.&nbsp;

Adhya's&nbsp;arrest came hours after the officials of the Enforcement Directorate were attacked by the supporters of Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Sheikh Shajahan in North 24 Parganas district.

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The Enforcement Directorate&nbsp;reported that a sizable mob, numbering between 800 and 1000 individuals, launched a violent attack on their officials with the apparent intent to cause harm.

The incident transpired on Thursday night when an ED team, conducting a raid related to an alleged ration scam, faced aggression in Sandeshkhali village of North 24 Parganas.

The team was investigating the residences of block-level leaders affiliated with the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC).

Also watch |&nbsp;TMC leader Kalyan Banerjee mimics Rajya Sabha Chairperson Jagdeep Dhankar again

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Notably, the ED focused its attention on former Bongaon Municipality Chairman Shankar Adhya's residence in Bangaon and TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan's house in connection with the alleged ration fraud.&nbsp;

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) released a statement saying "800-1000" people attacked its officials to cause death. The agency said the mob carried weapons such as lathis, stones, and bricks. Three ED officials have sustained grievous injuries and are hospitalised.

<h2>West Bengal governor reacts</h2>

Reacting to the situation, Governor CV Ananda Bose summoned Chief Secretary BP Gopalika, Home Secretary Nandini Chakraborty, and Director General of Police Rajiv Kumar to Raj Bhavan in Kolkata.&nbsp;

In a recorded voice message, Governor Bose expressed deep concern over the incident, describing it as alarming and deplorable.&nbsp;

He also stated that Bengal is not a banana republic and the government should stop barbarism and vandalism in a democracy. The Bengal governor also asked the West Bengal Police to shun its "ostrich-like attitude" of pretending not to see lawlessness around.

(With inputs from agencies)

A leader of one of India's opposition parties in West Bengal, Shankar Adhya, was arrested late on Friday (Jan 5) by the country's economic intelligence agency Enforcement Directorate (ED), in the alleged ration distribution scam.

A leader of one of India's opposition parties in West Bengal, Shankar Adhya, was arrested late on Friday (Jan 5) by the country's economic intelligence agency Enforcement Directorate (ED), in the alleged ration distribution scam. Shankar Adhya is the former chairman of Bangaon municipality in West Bengal and was arrested following an extensive search by the ED in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district. Adhya's arrest came hours after the officials of the Enforcement Directorate were attacked by the supporters of Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Sheikh Shajahan in North 24 Parganas district. Also read | Mamata Banerjee’s TMC outclasses BJP in West Bengal panchayat polls The Enforcement Directorate reported that a sizable mob, numbering between 800 and 1000 individuals, launched a violent attack on their officials with the apparent intent to cause harm. The incident transpired on Thursday night when an ED team, conducting a raid related to an alleged ration scam, faced aggression in Sandeshkhali village of North 24 Parganas. The team was investigating the residences of block-level leaders affiliated with the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC). Also watch | TMC leader Kalyan Banerjee mimics Rajya Sabha Chairperson Jagdeep Dhankar again × Notably, the ED focused its attention on former Bongaon Municipality Chairman Shankar Adhya's residence in Bangaon and TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan's house in connection with the alleged ration fraud. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) released a statement saying "800-1000" people attacked its officials to cause death. The agency said the mob carried weapons such as lathis, stones, and bricks. Three ED officials have sustained grievous injuries and are hospitalised. West Bengal governor reacts Reacting to the situation, Governor CV Ananda Bose summoned Chief Secretary BP Gopalika, Home Secretary Nandini Chakraborty, and Director General of Police Rajiv Kumar to Raj Bhavan in Kolkata. In a recorded voice message, Governor Bose expressed deep concern over the incident, describing it as alarming and deplorable. He also stated that Bengal is not a banana republic and the government should stop barbarism and vandalism in a democracy. The Bengal governor also asked the West Bengal Police to shun its "ostrich-like attitude" of pretending not to see lawlessness around. (With inputs from agencies)

India: TMC leader Shankar Adhya arrested in alleged ration scam hours after mob attack on ED officials

West Bengal: ED team and CRPF troops attacked during raid

President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 20 extended their support to Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar over TMC leader’s mimicry of Mr. Dhankhar on Dec. 19. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed great pain over the “abject theatrics” of some MPs in Parliament complex, the Vice President’s office said.

Protests & counter protests outside Parliament; more MPs suspended | Race to Power

Delhi CM Kejriwal to attend INDIA bloc meet, to meet TMC Chief & Uddhav Thackeray. The sources claim that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been summoned under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and that the agency would record his statement after he appears before the case's investigating officer in Delhi.

Delhi CM Kejriwal to attend INDIA bloc meet, to meet TMC Chief & Uddhav Thackeray

India's premier investigative agency, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), has started investigating allegations against Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra related to the 'cash-for-query' controversy, media reports said citing sources.&nbsp;

While a senior CBI official reportedly clarified that no Preliminary Enquiry (PE) has been registered yet, an investigation has been initiated after the matter was referred by the anti-corruption body Lokpal.

Moitra is under scrutiny for her involvement in the "cash-for-query" controversy, with the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee recently recommending her expulsion from the Lower House of the Indian Parliament.&nbsp;

The committee, which investigated the allegations adopted a report with a 6:4 majority, proposing the expulsion of the TMC member.

Also Read&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-takes-a-sortie-in-tejas-calls-it-a-sense-of-pride-662734">| Indian PM Modi takes sortie in Tejas, calls it a 'sense of pride'</a>

Moitra had faced the Ethics Committee on November 2 where she, along with opposition members, walked out citing concerns over the of questioning and the alleged imposition of "personal questions."

Other opposition members, including BSP MP Danish Ali, Janata Dal (United) MP Giridhari Yadav, and Congress MP Uttam Kumar Reddy, also walked out, raising objections to the proceedings.

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In her letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Moitra complained of "unethical, sordid, prejudiced behaviour" during the meeting.

<h2>Allegations by&nbsp;BJP MP Nishikant Dubey</h2>

The allegations against Moitra were initially raised by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, who accused her of targeting the Adani Group in Parliament. Dubey on October 21 complained to the anti-corruption watchdog Lokpal, alleging that Moitra had accepted bribes to pose questions in Parliament on behalf of businessman Darshan Hiranandani.

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The draft report from the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee suggested that the "serious misdemeanours" by Mahua Moitra warrant "severe punishment." The final decision will be taken by House Speaker Om Birla.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India's premier investigative agency, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), has started investigating allegations against Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra related to the 'cash-for-query' controversy, media reports said citing sources.

India's premier investigative agency, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), has started investigating allegations against Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra related to the 'cash-for-query' controversy, media reports said citing sources. While a senior CBI official reportedly clarified that no Preliminary Enquiry (PE) has been registered yet, an investigation has been initiated after the matter was referred by the anti-corruption body Lokpal. Moitra is under scrutiny for her involvement in the "cash-for-query" controversy, with the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee recently recommending her expulsion from the Lower House of the Indian Parliament. The committee, which investigated the allegations adopted a report with a 6:4 majority, proposing the expulsion of the TMC member. Also Read | Indian PM Modi takes sortie in Tejas, calls it a 'sense of pride' Moitra had faced the Ethics Committee on November 2 where she, along with opposition members, walked out citing concerns over the of questioning and the alleged imposition of "personal questions." Other opposition members, including BSP MP Danish Ali, Janata Dal (United) MP Giridhari Yadav, and Congress MP Uttam Kumar Reddy, also walked out, raising objections to the proceedings. Also Read | Revered Hindu temple razed in Pakistan, another one destroyed for coffee house In her letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Moitra complained of "unethical, sordid, prejudiced behaviour" during the meeting. Allegations by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey The allegations against Moitra were initially raised by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, who accused her of targeting the Adani Group in Parliament. Dubey on October 21 complained to the anti-corruption watchdog Lokpal, alleging that Moitra had accepted bribes to pose questions in Parliament on behalf of businessman Darshan Hiranandani. Watch | 26/11 Mumbai attacks' youngest eyewitness: 'I wanted to shoot Kasab' | WION Exclusive × The draft report from the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee suggested that the "serious misdemeanours" by Mahua Moitra warrant "severe punishment." The final decision will be taken by House Speaker Om Birla. (With inputs from agencies)

CBI starts investigation in ‘cash-for-query’ allegations against Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra

Indian parliament’s Ethics Committee probing the cash-for-query scam submitted a report on Thursday (Nov 7) recommending the expulsion of Trinamool Congress (TMC) lawmaker&nbsp;Mahua Moitra from the 17th Lok Sabha (lower house).

The 500-page report, which was adopted with a 6-4 vote, concluded that Moitra shared her user ID with "unauthorised persons", took cash and amenities from businessman Darshan Hiranandani, adding that she committed "serious misdemeanour" which calls for "serious punishment".

"The money trail of cash transaction between Mahua Moitra and Darshan Hiranandani as a part of a 'quid pro quo' should be investigated by the government of India in a legal, institutional and time-bound manner," the report read.

The report will be submitted to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla during the winter session of parliament and action would be taken after a discussion.

The panel has left it for the central government to investigate and establish the money trail.

<h2>Congress MP among six members who voted in favour&nbsp;</h2>

After the report was published, committee chairman and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lawmaker Vinod Sonkar said, “The Ethics Committee had prepared a report on the allegations against&nbsp;Mahua Moitra. The single agenda of the meeting was to adopt that report. That report was adopted.”

“Six MPs supported the report and four people have submitted their dissent notes. There was voting. We will send a detailed report along with the recommendations to the Lok Sabha Speaker. Whatever action is to be taken now will be taken by the Speaker.”

Among the six MPs who voted in favour, one is a Congress parliamentarian Preneet Kaur, wife of Punjab’s former chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh, who is now with the BJP.

The Opposition MPs who submitted dissenting note are: BSP’s Danish Ali, Congress’s V Vaithilingam, CPM’s P R Natarajan and JD(U)’s Giridhari Yadav.

<h2>'Will come back stronger'&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

Moitra dismissed the committee report, calling it a “pre-fixed match by a kangaroo court”.

"This is a pre-fixed match by a kangaroo court, which is of no surprise or consequence. But the larger message for the country is that for India, it is death of parliamentary democracy," she told PTI news agency.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-mahua-moitras-cash-for-query-row-how-tmc-mp-became-the-eye-of-the-storm-656879">Explained | Mahua Moitra's cash-for-query row: How TMC MP became the eye of the storm</a>

When asked what will be her next course of action if she is expelled, she said, “I will be back in the next Lok Sabha with bigger mandate."

Also read &nbsp;| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cash-for-query-scam-cbi-to-launch-probe-against-tmc-mp-mahua-moitra-says-bjps-nishikant-dubey-656582">CBI to probe cash-for-query scam involving TMC MP Mahua Moitra, says BJP MP Nishikant Dubey</a>

"First, let them expel me,” Moitra added.

Disputing the legitimacy of the Ethics Committee's mandate to recommend expulsion, Moitra criticised the BJP, saying, "I am happy that the BJP has shown to the entire country the mockery they have made of parliamentary democracy."

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian parliament’s Ethics Committee probing the cash-for-query scam submitted a report on Thursday (Nov 7) recommending the expulsion of Trinamool Congress (TMC) lawmaker Mahua Moitra from the 17th Lok Sabha (lower house).

Indian parliament’s Ethics Committee probing the cash-for-query scam submitted a report on Thursday (Nov 7) recommending the expulsion of Trinamool Congress (TMC) lawmaker Mahua Moitra from the 17th Lok Sabha (lower house). The 500-page report, which was adopted with a 6-4 vote, concluded that Moitra shared her user ID with "unauthorised persons", took cash and amenities from businessman Darshan Hiranandani, adding that she committed "serious misdemeanour" which calls for "serious punishment". "The money trail of cash transaction between Mahua Moitra and Darshan Hiranandani as a part of a 'quid pro quo' should be investigated by the government of India in a legal, institutional and time-bound manner," the report read. The report will be submitted to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla during the winter session of parliament and action would be taken after a discussion. The panel has left it for the central government to investigate and establish the money trail. Congress MP among six members who voted in favour After the report was published, committee chairman and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lawmaker Vinod Sonkar said, “The Ethics Committee had prepared a report on the allegations against Mahua Moitra. The single agenda of the meeting was to adopt that report. That report was adopted.” “Six MPs supported the report and four people have submitted their dissent notes. There was voting. We will send a detailed report along with the recommendations to the Lok Sabha Speaker. Whatever action is to be taken now will be taken by the Speaker.” Among the six MPs who voted in favour, one is a Congress parliamentarian Preneet Kaur, wife of Punjab’s former chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh, who is now with the BJP. The Opposition MPs who submitted dissenting note are: BSP’s Danish Ali, Congress’s V Vaithilingam, CPM’s P R Natarajan and JD(U)’s Giridhari Yadav. 'Will come back stronger' Moitra dismissed the committee report, calling it a “pre-fixed match by a kangaroo court”. "This is a pre-fixed match by a kangaroo court, which is of no surprise or consequence. But the larger message for the country is that for India, it is death of parliamentary democracy," she told PTI news agency. Also read | Explained | Mahua Moitra's cash-for-query row: How TMC MP became the eye of the storm When asked what will be her next course of action if she is expelled, she said, “I will be back in the next Lok Sabha with bigger mandate." Also read | CBI to probe cash-for-query scam involving TMC MP Mahua Moitra, says BJP MP Nishikant Dubey "First, let them expel me,” Moitra added. Disputing the legitimacy of the Ethics Committee's mandate to recommend expulsion, Moitra criticised the BJP, saying, "I am happy that the BJP has shown to the entire country the mockery they have made of parliamentary democracy." (With inputs from agencies)

Parliament ethics panel recommends expulsion of TMC MP Mahua Moitra in cash-for-query charges

India's premier investigative agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), will probe the charges&nbsp;in the cash-for-query scam levelled against Trinamool Congress (TMC) parliamentarian Mahua Moitra, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Nishikant Dubey said on Wednesday (Nov 8).

Moitra is currently under the lens of the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee after Dubey first raised the allegations.

"On the basis of my complaint, Lokpal has ordered a CBI probe into the Mahua Moitra's corruption that compromises national security," the BJP MP said on X in Hindi.

Dubey had approached the anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal on October 21, accusing Moitra of accepting bribes for asking questions in parliament at the behest of businessman Darshan Hiranandani.

<h2>What is the cash-for-query scam?</h2>

Dubey had earlier claimed to have received a letter from a lawyer named Jai Anant Dehadrai stating that Moitra accepted "cash and gifts" from businessman Darshan Hiranandani in order to "ask questions in Parliament" to target his rival Adani Group and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He said the letter reveals indisputable proof of bribes exchanged between Moitra and Darshan Hiranandani.

The BJP MP further alleged that Moitra shared her parliamentary login with the businessman, and in doing so, compromised national security.

Darshan Hiranandani later admitted to the login sharing in an explosive affidavit but did not mention the cash for query issue, claiming that he had given gifts to Moitra as she had demanded.

There are allegations that Moitra's login was used multiple times from Dubai, where Hiranandani currently resides. &nbsp;

<h2>Acrimonious scenes in ethics panel&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

The TMC leader had also accepted that she shared her login ID, but claimed that the protocols of sharing credentials were not shared with the MPs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nitish-kumar-sex-remark-pm-modi-says-cm-has-no-shame-as-latter-takes-his-words-back-656545">Nitish Kumar sex remark: Modi says CM has 'no shame' as latter apologises</a>

On November 2, Moitra appeared before the ethics panel to record her oral evidence on the allegations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-police-arrest-two-militants-in-manipur-following-alleged-abduction-of-two-teens-656462">India: Police arrest two militants in Manipur following alleged abduction of two teens</a>

However, she stormed out of the meeting, claiming that chairperson and BJP MP Vinod Sonkar asked her "unethical" and personal questions.

Sonkar accused Moitra of using unparliamentary language against him and other members of the panel.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's premier investigative agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), will probe the charges in the cash-for-query scam levelled against Trinamool Congress (TMC) parliamentarian Mahua Moitra, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Nishikant Dubey said on Wednesday (Nov 8).

India's premier investigative agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), will probe the charges in the cash-for-query scam levelled against Trinamool Congress (TMC) parliamentarian Mahua Moitra, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Nishikant Dubey said on Wednesday (Nov 8). Moitra is currently under the lens of the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee after Dubey first raised the allegations. "On the basis of my complaint, Lokpal has ordered a CBI probe into the Mahua Moitra's corruption that compromises national security," the BJP MP said on X in Hindi. Dubey had approached the anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal on October 21, accusing Moitra of accepting bribes for asking questions in parliament at the behest of businessman Darshan Hiranandani. What is the cash-for-query scam? Dubey had earlier claimed to have received a letter from a lawyer named Jai Anant Dehadrai stating that Moitra accepted "cash and gifts" from businessman Darshan Hiranandani in order to "ask questions in Parliament" to target his rival Adani Group and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said the letter reveals indisputable proof of bribes exchanged between Moitra and Darshan Hiranandani. The BJP MP further alleged that Moitra shared her parliamentary login with the businessman, and in doing so, compromised national security. Darshan Hiranandani later admitted to the login sharing in an explosive affidavit but did not mention the cash for query issue, claiming that he had given gifts to Moitra as she had demanded. There are allegations that Moitra's login was used multiple times from Dubai, where Hiranandani currently resides. Acrimonious scenes in ethics panel The TMC leader had also accepted that she shared her login ID, but claimed that the protocols of sharing credentials were not shared with the MPs. Also read | Nitish Kumar sex remark: Modi says CM has 'no shame' as latter apologises On November 2, Moitra appeared before the ethics panel to record her oral evidence on the allegations. Also read | India: Police arrest two militants in Manipur following alleged abduction of two teens However, she stormed out of the meeting, claiming that chairperson and BJP MP Vinod Sonkar asked her "unethical" and personal questions. Sonkar accused Moitra of using unparliamentary language against him and other members of the panel. (With inputs from agencies)

CBI to probe cash-for-query scam involving TMC MP Mahua Moitra, says BJP MP Nishikant Dubey

Indian Member of Parliament Nishikant Dubey from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Sunday (Oct 15) accused Mahua Moitra from the opposition Trinamool Congress (TMC) of taking bribes for asking questions in the Parliament and called for her “immediate suspension”. Responding to the allegations, the TMC leader has said that she would welcome any probe into the claim.&nbsp;

<h2>What are the allegations?</h2>

In a letter to the speaker of Lok Sabha (lower house of parliament) Om Birla, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey demanded setting up an inquiry committee against Moitra and sought her “immediate suspension” alleging that he has “irrefutable evidence” that bribes were exchanged between her and businessman Darshan Hiranandani.&nbsp;

Dubey said&nbsp;that the TMC leader received “cash” and “gifts” to ask questions in Parliament claiming that out of Moitra’s recent 61 questions, 50 “shockingly seek information, with the intent of protecting or perpetuating business interests of Shri Darshan Hiranandani and his Company.”

“The questions were also often focused on the Adani Group, another business conglomerate, Hiranandani Group was bidding for business against,” the letter added.&nbsp;

The “entire conspiracy” doesn't end there, the BJP MP wrote, and said that the TMC leader also “vehemently targeted” PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah by “constantly referencing…the Adani Group giving the impression that she was critical of the Government, possibly with the intention of seeking cover against her clandestine criminal operation”.

In the letter, Dubey also wrote how he and “several other Members of Parliament, were always perplexed&nbsp;as to why this ‘shouting brigade’ of TMC led by Smt Mahua Moitra indulges in such tactics, which infringes on the constitutional rights of other members, to debate and discuss the issues of common people and policies of the Government.”&nbsp;

The BJP MP said that the TMC leader is in clear ‘Breach of Privilege’ and ‘Contempt of the House’ and her actions would also attract penalty for a criminal offence under Section 120-A of the Indian Penal Code and went on to call for an inquiry committee to be set up for the case.&nbsp;

“I also request you that during the interregnum period, i.e. constitution of an ‘Inquiry Committee’ and its submission of Report, Smt Mahua Moitra may be immediately suspended from the services of the House,” wrote Dubey.&nbsp;

<h2>TMC leader responds</h2>

In response to these allegations, Moitra in a series of posts on X&nbsp;said CBI is welcome to investigate “right after they finish investigating Adani’s offshore money trail, over-invoicing, benami account”.

“If Adani group is relying on dodgy dossier created by dubious Sanghis &amp; circulated by fake degree wallahs to either shut me up or bring me down I would advise them not to waste their time. Use your lawyers wisely,” said the TMC leader in a separate post.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
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Indian Member of Parliament Nishikant Dubey from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Sunday (Oct 15) accused Mahua Moitra from the opposition Trinamool Congress (TMC) of taking bribes for asking questions in the Parliament and called for her “immediate suspension”.

Indian Member of Parliament Nishikant Dubey from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Sunday (Oct 15) accused Mahua Moitra from the opposition Trinamool Congress (TMC) of taking bribes for asking questions in the Parliament and called for her “immediate suspension”. Responding to the allegations, the TMC leader has said that she would welcome any probe into the claim. What are the allegations? In a letter to the speaker of Lok Sabha (lower house of parliament) Om Birla, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey demanded setting up an inquiry committee against Moitra and sought her “immediate suspension” alleging that he has “irrefutable evidence” that bribes were exchanged between her and businessman Darshan Hiranandani. Dubey said that the TMC leader received “cash” and “gifts” to ask questions in Parliament claiming that out of Moitra’s recent 61 questions, 50 “shockingly seek information, with the intent of protecting or perpetuating business interests of Shri Darshan Hiranandani and his Company.” “The questions were also often focused on the Adani Group, another business conglomerate, Hiranandani Group was bidding for business against,” the letter added. The “entire conspiracy” doesn't end there, the BJP MP wrote, and said that the TMC leader also “vehemently targeted” PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah by “constantly referencing…the Adani Group giving the impression that she was critical of the Government, possibly with the intention of seeking cover against her clandestine criminal operation”. In the letter, Dubey also wrote how he and “several other Members of Parliament, were always perplexed as to why this ‘shouting brigade’ of TMC led by Smt Mahua Moitra indulges in such tactics, which infringes on the constitutional rights of other members, to debate and discuss the issues of common people and policies of the Government.” The BJP MP said that the TMC leader is in clear ‘Breach of Privilege’ and ‘Contempt of the House’ and her actions would also attract penalty for a criminal offence under Section 120-A of the Indian Penal Code and went on to call for an inquiry committee to be set up for the case. “I also request you that during the interregnum period, i.e. constitution of an ‘Inquiry Committee’ and its submission of Report, Smt Mahua Moitra may be immediately suspended from the services of the House,” wrote Dubey. TMC leader responds In response to these allegations, Moitra in a series of posts on X said CBI is welcome to investigate “right after they finish investigating Adani’s offshore money trail, over-invoicing, benami account”. “If Adani group is relying on dodgy dossier created by dubious Sanghis & circulated by fake degree wallahs to either shut me up or bring me down I would advise them not to waste their time. Use your lawyers wisely,” said the TMC leader in a separate post. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: BJP MP claims Mahua Moitra took bribes to ask questions in Parliament; TMC leader welcomes probe

For a small-time actor Arpita Mukherjee, who has mostly played side roles in a few Indian films in her career, the rise has been meteoric. Mukherjee has been in news for the past week after she was arrested last Friday in Kolkata by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Raids were conducted last week at her plush south Kolkata apartment and the ED seized Rs 280 million&nbsp;(approx&nbsp; 3.5 million USD) from her flat which was suspected to be proceeds of kickbacks in the West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) recruitment scam. Mukherjee is known to be a close associate of Trinamool Congress party leader and state minister Partha Chatterjee- a co-accussed in the case.&nbsp; 
 
The money is allegedly back from the time when Chatterjee was in charge of the education portfolio. Chatterjee at present is the minister for industries and commerce. So far the ED has seized a cash, watches, jewellery worth USD 6.2 million. 
 
Who is Arpita Mukherjee and what's her background 
 
Local reports suggest Arpita Mukherjee had a meteoric rise in the past few years. She spent most of her childhood in a middle-class neighbourhood of Belgharia in North 24 Parganas and then moved to posh Tollywood area in Kolkata and stayed in an apartment in Diamond city-an upscale highrise apartment complex in south Kolkata.&nbsp;

In her social media profiles, Arpita claims to be an actor and model. Arpita started her career as a model back in 2004 and after a few years of struggle landed a small role in the Bengali film 'Mama Bhagne' in 2010 which had Bengali superstar Prasenjit Chatterjee playing the lead role. The following year she was part of a film called 'Bangla Bachao' which featured Paoli Dam, Prasenjit Chatterjee and others.&nbsp; 
 
“She has acted in three films I produced, but I haven’t kept in touch with her. Twelve years later, I am hearing about her and that too in the news,” said film director and producer Anup Sengupta to The Print. Arpita has also acted in a few Tamil and Oriya films, claims her mother Minati who lives Belgharia at the family home. Arpita's father was a Central Government employee who passed away many years back. She has an elder sister who is married.&nbsp;

Association with Partha Chatterjee 
 
Arpita has often accompanied Partha Chatterjee for several public and social events including the Durga Puja festivity of the Naktala area in Kolkata where Chatterjee is a patron. She even featured on the puja's music album cover in 2021. Arpita had even campaigned for Chatterjee during the 2021 Bengal assembly elections. . A photo of Mukherjee in an open jeep beside Partha Chatterjee and first-time Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Soham Chakraborty was widely shared on social media after her arrest.

 
Not a part of TMC 
 
Ever since her arrest, members of the ruling party have vehemently denied any association with Arpita. &nbsp;TMC general secretary Kunal Ghosh denied any link with her. “I want to reiterate (that) Arpita Mukherjee has no links with the TMC; she is not a party member. The party has nothing to do with her or the money recovered from her house. Many activists and people from various walks of life share stages at Trinamool Congress programmes but that doesn’t mean they are a part of TMC,” he told the media Sunday. 
 
Meanwhile, leader of the opposition BJP Suvendu Adhikari has shared old photos of Arpita sharing the stage with Chatterjee and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee from an earlier Durga Puja event. Adhikari also shared another image of Arpita that he claims is from a TMC event held on July 21.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
“Guilty by Association” - A legal phenomenon used to describe when an individual is guilty of committing a crime through knowing someone else. 
 
Just saying. 
 
Yeh toh bas trailer hai, picture abhi baki hai... <a href="https://t.co/4fM9gbLWrq">pic.twitter.com/4fM9gbLWrq</a>
— Suvendu Adhikari • শুভেন্দু অধিকারী (@SuvenduWB) <a href="https://twitter.com/SuvenduWB/status/1550541233927294976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Gracious presence of Ms. Mukherjee; "good friend" of Ex Education Minister, on stage of "historic" 21st July TMC event:- <a href="https://t.co/tZwMkiqh7l">pic.twitter.com/tZwMkiqh7l</a>
— Suvendu Adhikari • শুভেন্দু অধিকারী (@SuvenduWB) <a href="https://twitter.com/SuvenduWB/status/1550760246997438464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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While Arpita has denied her association with Partha Chatterjee during the preliminary round of investigation, what remains to be seen is how the investigative team would establish the link between the two.&nbsp;

For a small-time actor Arpita Mukherjee, who has mostly played side roles in a few Indian films in her career, the rise has been meteoric. Mukherjee has been in news for the past week after she was arrested last Friday in Kolkata by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

For a small-time actor Arpita Mukherjee, who has mostly played side roles in a few Indian films in her career, the rise has been meteoric. Mukherjee has been in news for the past week after she was arrested last Friday in Kolkata by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Raids were conducted last week at her plush south Kolkata apartment and the ED seized Rs 280 million (approx 3.5 million USD) from her flat which was suspected to be proceeds of kickbacks in the West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) recruitment scam. Mukherjee is known to be a close associate of Trinamool Congress party leader and state minister Partha Chatterjee- a co-accussed in the case. The money is allegedly back from the time when Chatterjee was in charge of the education portfolio. Chatterjee at present is the minister for industries and commerce. So far the ED has seized a cash, watches, jewellery worth USD 6.2 million. Who is Arpita Mukherjee and what's her background Local reports suggest Arpita Mukherjee had a meteoric rise in the past few years. She spent most of her childhood in a middle-class neighbourhood of Belgharia in North 24 Parganas and then moved to posh Tollywood area in Kolkata and stayed in an apartment in Diamond city-an upscale highrise apartment complex in south Kolkata. In her social media profiles, Arpita claims to be an actor and model. Arpita started her career as a model back in 2004 and after a few years of struggle landed a small role in the Bengali film 'Mama Bhagne' in 2010 which had Bengali superstar Prasenjit Chatterjee playing the lead role. The following year she was part of a film called 'Bangla Bachao' which featured Paoli Dam, Prasenjit Chatterjee and others. “She has acted in three films I produced, but I haven’t kept in touch with her. Twelve years later, I am hearing about her and that too in the news,” said film director and producer Anup Sengupta to The Print. Arpita has also acted in a few Tamil and Oriya films, claims her mother Minati who lives Belgharia at the family home. Arpita's father was a Central Government employee who passed away many years back. She has an elder sister who is married. Association with Partha Chatterjee Arpita has often accompanied Partha Chatterjee for several public and social events including the Durga Puja festivity of the Naktala area in Kolkata where Chatterjee is a patron. She even featured on the puja's music album cover in 2021. Arpita had even campaigned for Chatterjee during the 2021 Bengal assembly elections. . A photo of Mukherjee in an open jeep beside Partha Chatterjee and first-time Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Soham Chakraborty was widely shared on social media after her arrest. Not a part of TMC Ever since her arrest, members of the ruling party have vehemently denied any association with Arpita. TMC general secretary Kunal Ghosh denied any link with her. “I want to reiterate (that) Arpita Mukherjee has no links with the TMC; she is not a party member. The party has nothing to do with her or the money recovered from her house. Many activists and people from various walks of life share stages at Trinamool Congress programmes but that doesn’t mean they are a part of TMC,” he told the media Sunday. Meanwhile, leader of the opposition BJP Suvendu Adhikari has shared old photos of Arpita sharing the stage with Chatterjee and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee from an earlier Durga Puja event. Adhikari also shared another image of Arpita that he claims is from a TMC event held on July 21. “Guilty by Association” - A legal phenomenon used to describe when an individual is guilty of committing a crime through knowing someone else. Just saying. Yeh toh bas trailer hai, picture abhi baki hai... pic.twitter.com/4fM9gbLWrq — Suvendu Adhikari • শুভেন্দু অধিকারী (@SuvenduWB) July 22, 2022 × Gracious presence of Ms. Mukherjee; "good friend" of Ex Education Minister, on stage of "historic" 21st July TMC event:- pic.twitter.com/tZwMkiqh7l — Suvendu Adhikari • শুভেন্দু অধিকারী (@SuvenduWB) July 23, 2022 × While Arpita has denied her association with Partha Chatterjee during the preliminary round of investigation, what remains to be seen is how the investigative team would establish the link between the two.

Who is Arpita Mukherjee, ex-actress from whom Indian sleuths recovered millions in cash?

In 2019, Bengali actress and MP Nusrat Jahan's wedding photos went viral on the internet. She had just won the Lok Sabha election from Kolkata on a TMC ticket and then before taking oath as a member of the Parliament, had flown to Turkey to get married to beau, businessman Nikhil Jain. Photos of the dream-like wedding were shared on social media, which went viral in no time.&nbsp; 
 
On Wednesday, amid rumours of divorce, Nusrat stated that her marriage to Nikhil Jain was not legal in the eyes of law in India and hence there was no question of divorcing him.&nbsp; 
 
"Being on foreign land, as per Turkish Marriage Regulation, ceremony is invalid. It was an interfaith marriage, it requires validation under Special Marriage Act in India which didn't happen. As per court of Law, it's not marriage but relationship or live-in relationship," Nusrat, 31, said in a statement, reported news agency ANI. "Thus, the question of divorce does not arise."

"Our separation happened long back, but I did not speak about it as I intended to keep my private life to myself. Thus, my actions must not be questioned based on 'separation', by the media or anybody I am not related to. The alleged marriage is not legal, valid and tenable; and thus, was not a marriage at all in the eye of law," she alleged.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-is-nusrat-jahan-trending-controversies-are-not-new-to-actress-mp-390555">Also see:&nbsp;Controversies are not new to actress-MP Nusrat Jahan</a>

Commenting on Jahan's statement, Jain told reporters, &nbsp;"I don't want to say anything. Everything will be decided by the court. The matter is in court."

Following a fairytale wedding in Turkey, the couple had hosted a grand wedding reception in Kolkata which was attended by several dignitaries including West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and several Bengali film actors.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/nusrat-jahan-and-nikhil-jain-host-grand-reception-in-kolkata-cm-mamata-banerjee-mimi-chakraborty-attend-233204"> See pics of the event here.</a> 
 
Nusrat has now deleted all photos of her husband from her Instagram page. Her wedding photos are also not there on the timeline.&nbsp; 
 
Rumours of their separation started doing the rounds late last year, when Nusrat was linked to actor and BJP candidate Yash Dasgupta. The two have so far not confirmed or denied their relationship.&nbsp;

Nusrat's statement came amid speculations of a rift in her marriage and reports that she is living separately and is pregnant. 
 
"My visit to any place for business or for the purpose of leisure, should not concern anyone with whom I have separated. All my expenses have always been borne by me contrary to claims by 'someone'," she further said in the statement. 
 
Nusrat and Nikhil, are reportedly living separately since November 2020.&nbsp;

In 2019, Bengali actress and MP Nusrat Jahan's wedding photos went viral on the internet. She had just won the Lok Sabha election from Kolkata on a TMC ticket and then before taking oath as a member of the Parliament, had flown to Turkey to get married to beau, businessman Nikhil Jain.

In 2019, Bengali actress and MP Nusrat Jahan's wedding photos went viral on the internet. She had just won the Lok Sabha election from Kolkata on a TMC ticket and then before taking oath as a member of the Parliament, had flown to Turkey to get married to beau, businessman Nikhil Jain. Photos of the dream-like wedding were shared on social media, which went viral in no time. On Wednesday, amid rumours of divorce, Nusrat stated that her marriage to Nikhil Jain was not legal in the eyes of law in India and hence there was no question of divorcing him. "Being on foreign land, as per Turkish Marriage Regulation, ceremony is invalid. It was an interfaith marriage, it requires validation under Special Marriage Act in India which didn't happen. As per court of Law, it's not marriage but relationship or live-in relationship," Nusrat, 31, said in a statement, reported news agency ANI. "Thus, the question of divorce does not arise." "Our separation happened long back, but I did not speak about it as I intended to keep my private life to myself. Thus, my actions must not be questioned based on 'separation', by the media or anybody I am not related to. The alleged marriage is not legal, valid and tenable; and thus, was not a marriage at all in the eye of law," she alleged. Also see: Controversies are not new to actress-MP Nusrat Jahan Commenting on Jahan's statement, Jain told reporters, "I don't want to say anything. Everything will be decided by the court. The matter is in court." Following a fairytale wedding in Turkey, the couple had hosted a grand wedding reception in Kolkata which was attended by several dignitaries including West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and several Bengali film actors. See pics of the event here. Nusrat has now deleted all photos of her husband from her Instagram page. Her wedding photos are also not there on the timeline. Rumours of their separation started doing the rounds late last year, when Nusrat was linked to actor and BJP candidate Yash Dasgupta. The two have so far not confirmed or denied their relationship. Nusrat's statement came amid speculations of a rift in her marriage and reports that she is living separately and is pregnant. "My visit to any place for business or for the purpose of leisure, should not concern anyone with whom I have separated. All my expenses have always been borne by me contrary to claims by 'someone'," she further said in the statement. Nusrat and Nikhil, are reportedly living separately since November 2020.

Nusrat Jahan claims her marriage is 'invalid', deletes husband Nikhil Jain's photos from Instagram

Election strategist Prashant Kishor, who guided the TMC to what is likely to be a spectacular victory, announced Sunday he is "quitting this space", after firing a parting shot at the Election Commission, accusing it of being an "extension of BJP".

"I am quitting this space," he told India Today TV channel after trends showed a landslide victory for the TMC, the party whose election strategy he helped craft for the assembly elections.

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"I have never seen a more partial Election Commission, it did everything to help BJP....From allowing use of religion to scheduling poll and bending rules, EC did everything to help the BJP," he said, calling the poll panel an "extension" of the saffron party.

Talking to NDTV, Kishor stuck to his stand that the BJP was a formidable force in West Bengal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-bjp-shares-audio-chat-of-prashant-kishor-praising-pm-modi-376620">West Bengal: BJP shares audio chat of Prashant Kishor praising PM Modi</a>

He said he was confident about the TMC's victory despite the BJP's attempt to "build a massive propaganda" that it was winning.

"The result may look like one-sided but it was a tough fight. BJP is a formidable force and will be," he said.

"..., in reality BJP will struggle to cross double digits in #WestBengal," he had tweeted as early as December last year and his words proved prophetic.

"If BJP does any better, I must quit this space!", he had said.

Election strategist Prashant Kishor, who guided the TMC to what is likely to be a spectacular victory, announced Sunday he is "quitting this space", after firing a parting shot at the Election Commission, accusing it of being an "extension of BJP".

Election strategist Prashant Kishor, who guided the TMC to what is likely to be a spectacular victory, announced Sunday he is "quitting this space", after firing a parting shot at the Election Commission, accusing it of being an "extension of BJP". "I am quitting this space," he told India Today TV channel after trends showed a landslide victory for the TMC, the party whose election strategy he helped craft for the assembly elections. "I have never seen a more partial Election Commission, it did everything to help BJP....From allowing use of religion to scheduling poll and bending rules, EC did everything to help the BJP," he said, calling the poll panel an "extension" of the saffron party. Talking to NDTV, Kishor stuck to his stand that the BJP was a formidable force in West Bengal. Also read | West Bengal: BJP shares audio chat of Prashant Kishor praising PM Modi He said he was confident about the TMC's victory despite the BJP's attempt to "build a massive propaganda" that it was winning. "The result may look like one-sided but it was a tough fight. BJP is a formidable force and will be," he said. "..., in reality BJP will struggle to cross double digits in #WestBengal," he had tweeted as early as December last year and his words proved prophetic. "If BJP does any better, I must quit this space!", he had said.

'Quitting this space', declares Kishor, calls EC 'extension of BJP'

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders on Saturday said that Trinamool Congress' (TMC) election strategist Prashant Kishor`s leaked audiotape stating Prime Minister Narendra Modi is very popular in West Bengal has put the final nail in TMC's coffin.

Speaking to ANI, BJP MP from Cooch Behar Nisith Pramanik said, "Narendra Modi Ji is famous throughout the world. Prashant Kishor has done the work of putting the last nail in the coffin after finishing TMC."&nbsp;

Pramanik is contesting from the Dinhata constituency in the West Bengal Assembly election. Another BJP MP and party`s candidate from Chunchura Assembly seat Locket Chatterjee said, "Prashant Kishor also knows that Modi Ji is the best and a `sonar Bangla` will be made under his leadership. But to fool the people he got associated with TMC."

Meanwhile, BJP leader Rajib Banerjee who is contesting from the Domjur constituency in Howrah said Kishor`s strategy failed TMC in West Bengal.&nbsp;

"Prashant Kishor`s strategy will not work in Bengal. His strategy has failed. TMC has finished here. In Bengal, only Narendra Modi`s strategy will work," Rajib told ANI.&nbsp;

An audio chat of `Club House room` involving Prashant Kishor and a few journalists went viral on social media. "There is no anti-incumbency against Modi.&nbsp;

Modi has become a cult in the country. Modi is popular in Bengal. The Hindi speaking people is the core support base of BJP in Bengal. Modi is very popular here. Modi and Mamata are equally popular in Bengal," Kishore said in that conversation.&nbsp;

"When we made a survey and asked people whose government will be formed in Bengal. The outcomes predominantly come in favour of the BJP. The majority says BJP`s government will be formed. There are sufficient workers of BJP on the ground. If we leave one or two districts, everywhere there are strong cadets of BJP," added Kishor. "Suvendu is not a factor. Hindus, schedule caste, Dalit and Hindi speaking population are the key factors. Around 50-55 per cent of Hindus are voting for BJP. There are around one crore Hindi speaking population in West Bengal.&nbsp;

Matuas will predominantly vote for the BJP. When we made a survey and asked people whose government will be formed in Bengal. The outcomes predominantly comes in favour of BJP. In-ground there are workers of BJP," explained Kishor.&nbsp;

He further said the parties like Congress, Left and TMC have been practising appeasement politics in West Bengal.&nbsp;

"For the last 20 years, there has been a blatant effort to appease the minority. The entire political ecosystem in Bengal be it Left, Congress or Didi have been to grab the Muslim votes. There is some element that BJP is exploiting. And that element is coming from the blatant misuse of minority politics," Kishor stated.&nbsp;

The election strategist was roped in by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) for the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2021.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, voting for 44 constituencies in West Bengal`s fourth phase Assembly elections began at 7 am on Saturday amid tight security. This phase of the elections will witness an intense battle between 373 candidates in 44 constituencies of the state across five districts -- Cooch Behar, Alipurduar, South 24 Parganas, Howrah and Hooghly.&nbsp;

Among the 44 constituencies, nine are in Howrah, 10 in Hooghly, 11 in South 24 Parganas, five in Alipurduar and nine in Cooch Behar. A total of 1,15,81,022 voters will participate in this phase, out of which 2,63,016 are first-time voters. The fifth phase of the Assembly elections will commence on April 17. The counting of votes will take place on May 2.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders on Saturday said that Trinamool Congress' (TMC) election strategist Prashant Kishor`s leaked audiotape stating Prime Minister Narendra Modi is very popular in West Bengal has put the final nail in TMC's coffin.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders on Saturday said that Trinamool Congress' (TMC) election strategist Prashant Kishor`s leaked audiotape stating Prime Minister Narendra Modi is very popular in West Bengal has put the final nail in TMC's coffin. Speaking to ANI, BJP MP from Cooch Behar Nisith Pramanik said, "Narendra Modi Ji is famous throughout the world. Prashant Kishor has done the work of putting the last nail in the coffin after finishing TMC." Pramanik is contesting from the Dinhata constituency in the West Bengal Assembly election. Another BJP MP and party`s candidate from Chunchura Assembly seat Locket Chatterjee said, "Prashant Kishor also knows that Modi Ji is the best and a `sonar Bangla` will be made under his leadership. But to fool the people he got associated with TMC." Meanwhile, BJP leader Rajib Banerjee who is contesting from the Domjur constituency in Howrah said Kishor`s strategy failed TMC in West Bengal. "Prashant Kishor`s strategy will not work in Bengal. His strategy has failed. TMC has finished here. In Bengal, only Narendra Modi`s strategy will work," Rajib told ANI. An audio chat of `Club House room` involving Prashant Kishor and a few journalists went viral on social media. "There is no anti-incumbency against Modi. Modi has become a cult in the country. Modi is popular in Bengal. The Hindi speaking people is the core support base of BJP in Bengal. Modi is very popular here. Modi and Mamata are equally popular in Bengal," Kishore said in that conversation. "When we made a survey and asked people whose government will be formed in Bengal. The outcomes predominantly come in favour of the BJP. The majority says BJP`s government will be formed. There are sufficient workers of BJP on the ground. If we leave one or two districts, everywhere there are strong cadets of BJP," added Kishor. "Suvendu is not a factor. Hindus, schedule caste, Dalit and Hindi speaking population are the key factors. Around 50-55 per cent of Hindus are voting for BJP. There are around one crore Hindi speaking population in West Bengal. Matuas will predominantly vote for the BJP. When we made a survey and asked people whose government will be formed in Bengal. The outcomes predominantly comes in favour of BJP. In-ground there are workers of BJP," explained Kishor. He further said the parties like Congress, Left and TMC have been practising appeasement politics in West Bengal. "For the last 20 years, there has been a blatant effort to appease the minority. The entire political ecosystem in Bengal be it Left, Congress or Didi have been to grab the Muslim votes. There is some element that BJP is exploiting. And that element is coming from the blatant misuse of minority politics," Kishor stated. The election strategist was roped in by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) for the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2021. Meanwhile, voting for 44 constituencies in West Bengal`s fourth phase Assembly elections began at 7 am on Saturday amid tight security. This phase of the elections will witness an intense battle between 373 candidates in 44 constituencies of the state across five districts -- Cooch Behar, Alipurduar, South 24 Parganas, Howrah and Hooghly. Among the 44 constituencies, nine are in Howrah, 10 in Hooghly, 11 in South 24 Parganas, five in Alipurduar and nine in Cooch Behar. A total of 1,15,81,022 voters will participate in this phase, out of which 2,63,016 are first-time voters. The fifth phase of the Assembly elections will commence on April 17. The counting of votes will take place on May 2.

Prashant Kishor finished TMC, put the last nail in coffin: BJP MP

Trinamool Congress supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to boycott the opposition meeting to be held on January 13, 2020, in New Delhi.

“Congress and Left are jointly resorting to hooliganism in West Bengal. They are responsible for the violence in Malda. Both the parties are indulging in dirty politics in the state. I will fight against National Register of Citizens (NRC) and Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) alone. I am going to boycott the opposition meeting in Delhi,” Banerjee said on the floor of the house at the Bengal Legislative Assembly during a special session today.

Her statements came in the wake of uproar in the assembly house where several Left and Congress leaders raised questions at the administration after a viral video surfaced where policemen were allegedly seen vandalising series of vehicles in Malda’s Sujapur.

“What we saw yesterday is condemnable. The administration has completely failed. Yesterday we saw policemen resorting to vandalism, the government must fix responsibility,” said CPI(M) leader Sujan Chakraborty.

A day ago, massive clashes erupted in Malda district’s Sujapur after Left and Congress supporters were blocking the National Highway- 34 in support of the Bharat Bandh. When police tried to remove the blockade, they clashed with police and also hurled brickbats. Police in retaliation resorted to lathi-charge and fired tear gas shells. As many as ten vehicles were set ablaze by agitators claimed the police.

The opposition meeting to be convened by Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi on January 13, 2020, at the Parliament House will be attended by several opposition leaders over the present situation in the country in the wake of widespread protests against NRC and CAA.

Trinamool Congress supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to boycott the opposition meeting to be held on January 13, 2020, in New Delhi. “Congress and Left are jointly resorting to hooliganism in West Bengal.

Trinamool Congress supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to boycott the opposition meeting to be held on January 13, 2020, in New Delhi. “Congress and Left are jointly resorting to hooliganism in West Bengal. They are responsible for the violence in Malda. Both the parties are indulging in dirty politics in the state. I will fight against National Register of Citizens (NRC) and Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) alone. I am going to boycott the opposition meeting in Delhi,” Banerjee said on the floor of the house at the Bengal Legislative Assembly during a special session today. Her statements came in the wake of uproar in the assembly house where several Left and Congress leaders raised questions at the administration after a viral video surfaced where policemen were allegedly seen vandalising series of vehicles in Malda’s Sujapur. “What we saw yesterday is condemnable. The administration has completely failed. Yesterday we saw policemen resorting to vandalism, the government must fix responsibility,” said CPI(M) leader Sujan Chakraborty. A day ago, massive clashes erupted in Malda district’s Sujapur after Left and Congress supporters were blocking the National Highway- 34 in support of the Bharat Bandh. When police tried to remove the blockade, they clashed with police and also hurled brickbats. Police in retaliation resorted to lathi-charge and fired tear gas shells. As many as ten vehicles were set ablaze by agitators claimed the police. The opposition meeting to be convened by Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi on January 13, 2020, at the Parliament House will be attended by several opposition leaders over the present situation in the country in the wake of widespread protests against NRC and CAA.

Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee to boycott opposition meet in Delhi

Bengali film actress Nusrat Jahan has been admitted to a private hospital in Kolkata after she complained of 'breathing problem'. Jahan was taken to Apollo Hospital in Kolkata on Sunday after she reportedly complained of breathing problems. Sources state that the actress has a history of asthma.&nbsp;

Abhishek Majumdar, the spokesperson for the actor, said Nusrat will be released from the hospital by Monday evening.&nbsp;News of her falling sick due to medicine overdose was doing the rounds earlier, which the actor’s family rubbished later.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, during the Lok Sabha elections, Nusrat Jahan had defeated her nearest rival BJP’s Sayantan Ghosh by 3,50,369 votes. She won on a TMC ticket.&nbsp;

Soon after winning the elections, Nusrat Jahan&nbsp;tied the knot with Kolkata-based businessman Nikhil Jain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/actress-and-mp-nusrat-jahan-marries-boyfriend-nikhil-jain-in-turkey-228896">in the Turkish town of Bodrum </a>in June. The couple had later hosted a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/nusrat-jahan-and-nikhil-jain-host-grand-reception-in-kolkata-cm-mamata-banerjee-mimi-chakraborty-attend-233204"> grand reception in Kolkata </a>which was attended by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and other celebrities from Bengal film industry.&nbsp;

Bengali film actress Nusrat Jahan has been admitted to a private hospital in Kolkata after she complained of 'breathing problem'. Jahan was taken to Apollo Hospital in Kolkata on Sunday after she reportedly complained of breathing problems.

Bengali film actress Nusrat Jahan has been admitted to a private hospital in Kolkata after she complained of 'breathing problem'. Jahan was taken to Apollo Hospital in Kolkata on Sunday after she reportedly complained of breathing problems. Sources state that the actress has a history of asthma. Abhishek Majumdar, the spokesperson for the actor, said Nusrat will be released from the hospital by Monday evening. News of her falling sick due to medicine overdose was doing the rounds earlier, which the actor’s family rubbished later. Earlier this year, during the Lok Sabha elections, Nusrat Jahan had defeated her nearest rival BJP’s Sayantan Ghosh by 3,50,369 votes. She won on a TMC ticket. Soon after winning the elections, Nusrat Jahan tied the knot with Kolkata-based businessman Nikhil Jain in the Turkish town of Bodrum in June. The couple had later hosted a grand reception in Kolkata which was attended by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and other celebrities from Bengal film industry.

TMC MP- actress Nusrat Jahan hospitalised for 'breathing problem'

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) can never form a government in West Bengal, nor can it ever implement the National Register of Citizens (NRC) enumeration exercise here, said Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Madan Mitra on Saturday.&nbsp;

"I say not only in 2021, the BJP can never come to power in West Bengal, nor can NRC exercise ever be implemented here," Mitra told ANI here.

He said TMC has become very focussed and alert and has rebuilt itself after the Lok Sabha election results.&nbsp;

Reacting to BJP President Amit Shah`s repeated comments pledging to carry out NRC exercise in the state, the TMC leader said, "They (BJP leaders) said here that only Muslim immigrants will be identified in the NRC exercise but look what happened in Assam lakhs of Hindus have also been left out of the register."

Asserting that there was an environment of communal harmony in the state, Mitra said his party stands for all places of worship whether it be temples, mosques, or churches.&nbsp;

Mitra was speaking to ANI on the sidelines of Vijay Sammelan organised to protest against BJP`s plan to implement NRC in the state. The event witnessed the participation of members from the Hindu, Muslim and Sikh communities.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) can never form a government in West Bengal, nor can it ever implement the National Register of Citizens (NRC) enumeration exercise here, said Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Madan Mitra on Saturday.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) can never form a government in West Bengal, nor can it ever implement the National Register of Citizens (NRC) enumeration exercise here, said Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Madan Mitra on Saturday. "I say not only in 2021, the BJP can never come to power in West Bengal, nor can NRC exercise ever be implemented here," Mitra told ANI here. He said TMC has become very focussed and alert and has rebuilt itself after the Lok Sabha election results. Reacting to BJP President Amit Shah`s repeated comments pledging to carry out NRC exercise in the state, the TMC leader said, "They (BJP leaders) said here that only Muslim immigrants will be identified in the NRC exercise but look what happened in Assam lakhs of Hindus have also been left out of the register." Asserting that there was an environment of communal harmony in the state, Mitra said his party stands for all places of worship whether it be temples, mosques, or churches. Mitra was speaking to ANI on the sidelines of Vijay Sammelan organised to protest against BJP`s plan to implement NRC in the state. The event witnessed the participation of members from the Hindu, Muslim and Sikh communities.

BJP can never come to power in West Bengal, nor can it implement NRC here: TMC's Madan Mitra

Former Mayor of Bidhannagar and Trinamool Congress (TMC)&nbsp;MLA Sabyasachi Dutta joined&nbsp;Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday.

He joined BJP in the presence of party president Amit Shah.

On Monday, Dutta had said that he will be joining the party in the presence of Amit Shah.

"I will be joining BJP tomorrow at Netaji Indoor Stadium in Kolkata in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah," Dutta had said on Monday.

Last month, former Kolkata Mayor and TMC MLA Sovan Chatterjee joined the BJP.

In this year's Lok Sabha elections, the BJP made deep inroads in West Bengal, winning 18 out of 42 parliamentary constituencies while the TMC managed just 22, 12 less than it had won in the 2014 polls.

Since then, several TMC leaders including Biswajit Das Tusharkanti Bhattacharya, Monirul Islam and Sunil Singh have joined the BJP.

The Mamata Banerjee-led party has also lost control over five civic bodies of Bhatpara, Halisahar, Kanchrapara, Naihati and Garulia.

Former Mayor of Bidhannagar and Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Sabyasachi Dutta joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday. He joined BJP in the presence of party president Amit Shah.

Former Mayor of Bidhannagar and Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Sabyasachi Dutta joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday. He joined BJP in the presence of party president Amit Shah. On Monday, Dutta had said that he will be joining the party in the presence of Amit Shah. "I will be joining BJP tomorrow at Netaji Indoor Stadium in Kolkata in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah," Dutta had said on Monday. Last month, former Kolkata Mayor and TMC MLA Sovan Chatterjee joined the BJP. In this year's Lok Sabha elections, the BJP made deep inroads in West Bengal, winning 18 out of 42 parliamentary constituencies while the TMC managed just 22, 12 less than it had won in the 2014 polls. Since then, several TMC leaders including Biswajit Das Tusharkanti Bhattacharya, Monirul Islam and Sunil Singh have joined the BJP. The Mamata Banerjee-led party has also lost control over five civic bodies of Bhatpara, Halisahar, Kanchrapara, Naihati and Garulia.

Trinamool Congress MLA Sabyasachi Dutta joins Bharatiya Janata Party

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 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

In a landmark move, Sudan's main opposition coalition and the ruling military council have formally signed a final power-sharing deal here on Saturday.

The agreement, which will pave the way for a transition to a civilian-led government, came after a long period of protest and negotiations following the overthrow of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ousted-sudan-president-omar-al-bashir-to-be-sent-for-trial-soon-prosecutor-says-227709">longtime leader President Omar al-Bashir</a> in the wake of mass protests.

The power-sharing deal creates a joint military and civilian sovereign council to rule for a little over three years until elections can be held.

Under the agreement, a military leader would head the 11-member council for the first 21 months, followed by a civilian leader for the next 18.

It would also establish a cabinet appointed by the activists and a legislative body.

The deal was signed by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, deputy chief of the Transitional Military Council (TMC), and Ahmed al-Rabie, who represented the Alliance for Freedom and Change umbrella group.

The signing ceremony was attended by heads of states, prime ministers and dignitaries from several countries, including Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and South Sudanese President Salva Kiir.

The deal has revived hopes for a peaceful transition of power in Sudan, which has been rocked by violent protests in April which saw the ouster of-Bashir.

Mass protests, first against the al-Bashir regime, and now the TMC have been ongoing in Sudan.

The TMC was formed after the military overthrew al-Bashir on April 11 in a coup.

Protesters have been demanding the military council to transfer power to a civilian-led government.&nbsp;

The United States has welcomed the power-sharing deal, following months of ongoing protests in the African nation.

"The United States congratulates the people of Sudan on the August 17 signing of the Constitutional Declaration and political agreement between the Forces for Freedom and Change and the Transitional Military Council. We are encouraged by this first step in the establishment of a civilian-led transitional government," Morgan Ortagus, the state department`s spokeswoman said.

In a landmark move, Sudan's main opposition coalition and the ruling military council have formally signed a final power-sharing deal here on Saturday. The agreement, which will pave the way for a transition to a civilian-led government, came after a long period of protest and negotiations following the overthrow of longtime leader President Omar al-Bashir in the wake of mass protests.

In a landmark move, Sudan's main opposition coalition and the ruling military council have formally signed a final power-sharing deal here on Saturday. The agreement, which will pave the way for a transition to a civilian-led government, came after a long period of protest and negotiations following the overthrow of longtime leader President Omar al-Bashir in the wake of mass protests. The power-sharing deal creates a joint military and civilian sovereign council to rule for a little over three years until elections can be held. Under the agreement, a military leader would head the 11-member council for the first 21 months, followed by a civilian leader for the next 18. It would also establish a cabinet appointed by the activists and a legislative body. The deal was signed by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, deputy chief of the Transitional Military Council (TMC), and Ahmed al-Rabie, who represented the Alliance for Freedom and Change umbrella group. The signing ceremony was attended by heads of states, prime ministers and dignitaries from several countries, including Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and South Sudanese President Salva Kiir. The deal has revived hopes for a peaceful transition of power in Sudan, which has been rocked by violent protests in April which saw the ouster of-Bashir. Mass protests, first against the al-Bashir regime, and now the TMC have been ongoing in Sudan. The TMC was formed after the military overthrew al-Bashir on April 11 in a coup. Protesters have been demanding the military council to transfer power to a civilian-led government. The United States has welcomed the power-sharing deal, following months of ongoing protests in the African nation. "The United States congratulates the people of Sudan on the August 17 signing of the Constitutional Declaration and political agreement between the Forces for Freedom and Change and the Transitional Military Council. We are encouraged by this first step in the establishment of a civilian-led transitional government," Morgan Ortagus, the state department`s spokeswoman said.

Sudan leaders sign power-sharing deal with military 

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

Normal life in several districts of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fani-heading-towards-west-bengal-rain-lashes-city-215652">West Bengal</a> remains disrupted due to incessant rainfall over the past few days.

According to the Irrigation and Waterways Department, Jalpaiguri has received 154.60 mm of rainfall, Coochbehar 197.40 mm and Siliguri 97 mm, so far.

The continuous downpour has led to a rise in the water level of the Torsa river, forcing people to migrate to other places.

&nbsp;Local administration is making efforts to bring back normalcy by pumping out water from the blocked roads. The schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centers in some places have been shut by the local authorities due to waterlogging.&nbsp;

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-meteorological-department-predicts-heavy-rainfall-in-uttarakhand-234250">Indian Meteorological Department</a> has predicted rain showers accompanied by thunderstorms for the next few days in parts of West Bengal.

Normal life in several districts of West Bengal remains disrupted due to incessant rainfall over the past few days. According to the Irrigation and Waterways Department, Jalpaiguri has received 154.

Normal life in several districts of West Bengal remains disrupted due to incessant rainfall over the past few days. According to the Irrigation and Waterways Department, Jalpaiguri has received 154.60 mm of rainfall, Coochbehar 197.40 mm and Siliguri 97 mm, so far. The continuous downpour has led to a rise in the water level of the Torsa river, forcing people to migrate to other places. Local administration is making efforts to bring back normalcy by pumping out water from the blocked roads. The schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centers in some places have been shut by the local authorities due to waterlogging. The Indian Meteorological Department has predicted rain showers accompanied by thunderstorms for the next few days in parts of West Bengal.

Incessant rainfall hits normal life in parts of West Bengal

In her first press conference after Trinamool Congress' poll drubbing in Lok Sabha elections, party supremo Mamata Banerjee stressed on concentrating more on organisational functioning to assess the losses. In tandem with that agenda, Banerjee has conducted more than 10 organisational meetings in the last one and half month, sitting down with all her ministers and councillors. Political strategist Prashant Kishor, credited for the poll success of YSRCP chief Jaganmohan Reddy’s victory in Andhra Pradesh and helping other top politicians, has also joined hands with Trinamool in an effort to revamp the party's game plan.&nbsp;

Here are some ways the party’s changing:

More emphasis on internal democracy

On every Friday in the last month, Banerjee is sitting with leaders from different districts from ministers to block level councillors.

She has held more than 400 administrative meetings. While earlier such meetings had live coverage, they are now held away from the prying eye of the media. Without the media glare, Banerjee is interacting with grassroots workers and asking them to speak their minds, something that party insiders feel was the need of the day.&nbsp;

Shifting action back to TMC headquarter

Every during the election season, the TMC headquarter bore a vacant look.

Last year, Banerjee conducted only one meeting here. Now, senior party leaders including the likes of Subhendu Adhikary and Abhishek Banerjee have been assigned to sit in the party office on certain days of the week. They have been asked to listen to problems of the common worker.

Banerjee herself has visited the party HQ 10 times and now all party organisational meeting takes place here.

Reaching out to Opposition

For the first time in eight years, the SC/ST MLAs of Opposition parties got a call to attend the CM’s tribal review meeting. Not only has Banerjee invited them, but she has also asked them to give suggestions for development.

She has also asked party members to avoid unnecessary political violence stating that it was giving opposition more mileage.

Jan Sangjog Yatra

To cut out the idea that the TMC were behaving like overlords rather than elected leaders, Banerjee has asked party workers to increase public outreach. Leaders have been asked to do the Jan Sangjog Yatra and for party workers to hear public grievances.

She even asked party workers to go the people and apologise if they’d made mistakes.

The Prashant Kishore effect

In the last month, Prashant Kishor has visited the state a couple of times and had a meeting with Ministers and district presidents. He has reportedly asked for the party’s top brass to come out of election mode and reach out to people. He has asked for party leaders to keep calm and not react to everything.

Prashant Kishor has also made it abundantly clear that he has only come to assist leaders and all instructions are being given by high command. Whether PK manages to help this new-look TMC combat the BJP juggernaut is something we’ll find out in the coming days. 
&nbsp;

In her first press conference after Trinamool Congress' poll drubbing in Lok Sabha elections, party supremo Mamata Banerjee stressed on concentrating more on organisational functioning to assess the losses.

In her first press conference after Trinamool Congress' poll drubbing in Lok Sabha elections, party supremo Mamata Banerjee stressed on concentrating more on organisational functioning to assess the losses. In tandem with that agenda, Banerjee has conducted more than 10 organisational meetings in the last one and half month, sitting down with all her ministers and councillors. Political strategist Prashant Kishor, credited for the poll success of YSRCP chief Jaganmohan Reddy’s victory in Andhra Pradesh and helping other top politicians, has also joined hands with Trinamool in an effort to revamp the party's game plan. Here are some ways the party’s changing: More emphasis on internal democracy On every Friday in the last month, Banerjee is sitting with leaders from different districts from ministers to block level councillors. She has held more than 400 administrative meetings. While earlier such meetings had live coverage, they are now held away from the prying eye of the media. Without the media glare, Banerjee is interacting with grassroots workers and asking them to speak their minds, something that party insiders feel was the need of the day. Shifting action back to TMC headquarter Every during the election season, the TMC headquarter bore a vacant look. Last year, Banerjee conducted only one meeting here. Now, senior party leaders including the likes of Subhendu Adhikary and Abhishek Banerjee have been assigned to sit in the party office on certain days of the week. They have been asked to listen to problems of the common worker. Banerjee herself has visited the party HQ 10 times and now all party organisational meeting takes place here. Reaching out to Opposition For the first time in eight years, the SC/ST MLAs of Opposition parties got a call to attend the CM’s tribal review meeting. Not only has Banerjee invited them, but she has also asked them to give suggestions for development. She has also asked party members to avoid unnecessary political violence stating that it was giving opposition more mileage. Jan Sangjog Yatra To cut out the idea that the TMC were behaving like overlords rather than elected leaders, Banerjee has asked party workers to increase public outreach. Leaders have been asked to do the Jan Sangjog Yatra and for party workers to hear public grievances. She even asked party workers to go the people and apologise if they’d made mistakes. The Prashant Kishore effect In the last month, Prashant Kishor has visited the state a couple of times and had a meeting with Ministers and district presidents. He has reportedly asked for the party’s top brass to come out of election mode and reach out to people. He has asked for party leaders to keep calm and not react to everything. Prashant Kishor has also made it abundantly clear that he has only come to assist leaders and all instructions are being given by high command. Whether PK manages to help this new-look TMC combat the BJP juggernaut is something we’ll find out in the coming days.

Mamata Banerjee holds 10 Trinamool Congress meet after Lok Sabha poll debacle

A special court on Thursday summoned Abhishek Banerjee, TMC MP and nephew of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, to appear before it on July 25 in connection a case of false declaration about his educational qualification during the elections. 
 
Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Samar Vishal was hearing a plea filed by an advocate Sarthak Chaturvedi, who has accused Banerjee of filing a false affidavit about his educational qualification during the recent elections. 
 
He claimed that Banerjee has misrepresented and falsely stated his qualification as an MBA graduate.&nbsp;

Earlier, Chaturvedi filed a complaint against the lawmaker under section 200 of the Cr. PC, seeking his prosecution for offences under section 125A of the Representation of the People Act (RPA), section 181 (false statement)and 418 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) in the fast track court of ACMM Samar Vishal. Banerjee is the MP from Diamond Harbour Parliamentary Constituency. 
 
He is also the National President of All India Trinamool Youth Congress.&nbsp;

A special court on Thursday summoned Abhishek Banerjee, TMC MP and nephew of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, to appear before it on July 25 in connection a case of false declaration about his educational qualification during the elections.

A special court on Thursday summoned Abhishek Banerjee, TMC MP and nephew of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, to appear before it on July 25 in connection a case of false declaration about his educational qualification during the elections. Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Samar Vishal was hearing a plea filed by an advocate Sarthak Chaturvedi, who has accused Banerjee of filing a false affidavit about his educational qualification during the recent elections. He claimed that Banerjee has misrepresented and falsely stated his qualification as an MBA graduate. Earlier, Chaturvedi filed a complaint against the lawmaker under section 200 of the Cr. PC, seeking his prosecution for offences under section 125A of the Representation of the People Act (RPA), section 181 (false statement)and 418 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) in the fast track court of ACMM Samar Vishal. Banerjee is the MP from Diamond Harbour Parliamentary Constituency. He is also the National President of All India Trinamool Youth Congress.

Special court summons Mamata Banerjee's nephew Abhishek in fake degree case

BJP MP from Hooghly Locket Chatterjee has accused TMC leaders in West Bengal of taking cut-money.

"Cut-money is taken by TMC leaders from birth till death. West Bengal Chief Minister has accepted that their leaders take it. TMC leaders from lower to upper level are taking it. Chief Minister had said to her party leaders to keep the 25 per cent amount and give 75 per cent to her," she said raising the issue in the Zero Hour of Lok Sabha.

Meanwhile, the Calcutta High Court directed Bengal Food Minister Jyotipriya Mullick, his assistant, a councillor and the state to respond within four weeks to a complaint filed by two businessman brothers that they had been asked to pay Rs 30 lakh for permission to set up a nursing home.

Protests and demonstrations have rocked various parts of the state over people demanding that "cut money" allegedly taken by elected representatives of the ruling TMC from beneficiaries of government schemes be returned.

Cut money amounts to a percentage of money that is illegally charged by elected leaders to the grassroots functionaries at the panchayat and local bodies level from ordinary citizens in return for delivery of services.

Meanwhile, BJP &nbsp;said if voted to power it will seize properties of TMC leaders accused of taking such commissions and return the money to people. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

BJP MP from Hooghly Locket Chatterjee has accused TMC leaders in West Bengal of taking cut-money. "Cut-money is taken by TMC leaders from birth till death. West Bengal Chief Minister has accepted that their leaders take it.

BJP MP from Hooghly Locket Chatterjee has accused TMC leaders in West Bengal of taking cut-money. "Cut-money is taken by TMC leaders from birth till death. West Bengal Chief Minister has accepted that their leaders take it. TMC leaders from lower to upper level are taking it. Chief Minister had said to her party leaders to keep the 25 per cent amount and give 75 per cent to her," she said raising the issue in the Zero Hour of Lok Sabha. Meanwhile, the Calcutta High Court directed Bengal Food Minister Jyotipriya Mullick, his assistant, a councillor and the state to respond within four weeks to a complaint filed by two businessman brothers that they had been asked to pay Rs 30 lakh for permission to set up a nursing home. Protests and demonstrations have rocked various parts of the state over people demanding that "cut money" allegedly taken by elected representatives of the ruling TMC from beneficiaries of government schemes be returned. Cut money amounts to a percentage of money that is illegally charged by elected leaders to the grassroots functionaries at the panchayat and local bodies level from ordinary citizens in return for delivery of services. Meanwhile, BJP said if voted to power it will seize properties of TMC leaders accused of taking such commissions and return the money to people. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP MP accuses TMC leaders of taking cut-money

As many as 14 Opposition parties, including Congress, TMC, NCP, AAP and CPI, have given notice over discussion in Rajya Sabha tomorrow under Rule 176 on the `need for electoral reforms in the country`.

The leaders of the parties are expected to talk about electoral bonds, One Nation One Election and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/can-learn-a-lot-from-indian-experience-on-electronic-voting-machines-indonesian-envoy-211182">Electronic Voting Machine</a> (EVM) malfunction, among other issues.&nbsp;

Claiming that a majority of political parties were in favour of "One Nation, One Election" idea, the government had on June 19 announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will constitute a committee to study the feasibility of the concept after a meeting of parties from which main Opposition Congress and major parties kept away.&nbsp;

As many as 14 Opposition parties, including Congress, TMC, NCP, AAP and CPI, have given notice over discussion in Rajya Sabha tomorrow under Rule 176 on the `need for electoral reforms in the country`.

As many as 14 Opposition parties, including Congress, TMC, NCP, AAP and CPI, have given notice over discussion in Rajya Sabha tomorrow under Rule 176 on the `need for electoral reforms in the country`. The leaders of the parties are expected to talk about electoral bonds, One Nation One Election and Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) malfunction, among other issues. Claiming that a majority of political parties were in favour of "One Nation, One Election" idea, the government had on June 19 announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will constitute a committee to study the feasibility of the concept after a meeting of parties from which main Opposition Congress and major parties kept away.

14 opposition parties give notice over discussion in Rajya Sabha on 'need for electoral reforms'

Many Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers and leaders joined the BJP here in presence of West Bengal BJP President Dilip Ghosh.

The inclusion of TMC workers into BJP took place at the Jogdaan Mela organised by the party on Saturday.

Prior to the event, 20 BJP workers were admitted to a hospital after they were attacked by unidentified people on their way to the function.&nbsp;

Many Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers and leaders joined the BJP here in presence of West Bengal BJP President Dilip Ghosh. The inclusion of TMC workers into BJP took place at the Jogdaan Mela organised by the party on Saturday.

Many Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers and leaders joined the BJP here in presence of West Bengal BJP President Dilip Ghosh. The inclusion of TMC workers into BJP took place at the Jogdaan Mela organised by the party on Saturday. Prior to the event, 20 BJP workers were admitted to a hospital after they were attacked by unidentified people on their way to the function.

TMC workers join BJP in presence of West Bengal party president Dilip Ghosh

Veteran Communist leader Sudhakar Reddy on Thursday termed as "meaningless" the appeal of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to the Congress and Left parties to come together with her party -- the TMC -- to fight the BJP.

Banerjee Wednesday reached out to opposition Congress and CPI(M) but the two parties rejected her appeal saying her policies are responsible for the saffron party's growth.

The national General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (CPI) said the Trinamool Congress chief still sees the Left parties as "enemies and not as political opponents".

"Several hundred of offices of the Left parties in West Bengal are still occupied by Trinamool. More than 100 people were killed. Several thousands were thrown out of their villages. Still, that type of attacks are going on", he told PTI.

The Chief Minister's appeal in this background is meaningless, Reddy said.

He further charged the ruling outfit in West Bengal with "attacking and destroying" the Left.

"It is she (Mamata) who is responsible for forcibly using violence against the Left in a very big way, and weaken the Left in West Bengal in the most undemocratic way and now what's the meaning of this appeal?", Reddy asked.

Left parties see the BJP as an "enemy" and would like to fight against it but at the same time view Trinamool as "equally a rival", he said.

Speaking during the debate on the Governor's address in the state Assembly in Kolkata, Banerjee had said the BJP is trying to run a parallel government in West Bengal and parties like the Congress and the CPI(M) should "join hands" with the Trinamool Congress to fight against it.&nbsp;

Veteran Communist leader Sudhakar Reddy on Thursday termed as "meaningless" the appeal of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to the Congress and Left parties to come together with her party -- the TMC -- to fight the BJP.

Veteran Communist leader Sudhakar Reddy on Thursday termed as "meaningless" the appeal of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to the Congress and Left parties to come together with her party -- the TMC -- to fight the BJP. Banerjee Wednesday reached out to opposition Congress and CPI(M) but the two parties rejected her appeal saying her policies are responsible for the saffron party's growth. The national General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (CPI) said the Trinamool Congress chief still sees the Left parties as "enemies and not as political opponents". "Several hundred of offices of the Left parties in West Bengal are still occupied by Trinamool. More than 100 people were killed. Several thousands were thrown out of their villages. Still, that type of attacks are going on", he told PTI. The Chief Minister's appeal in this background is meaningless, Reddy said. He further charged the ruling outfit in West Bengal with "attacking and destroying" the Left. "It is she (Mamata) who is responsible for forcibly using violence against the Left in a very big way, and weaken the Left in West Bengal in the most undemocratic way and now what's the meaning of this appeal?", Reddy asked. Left parties see the BJP as an "enemy" and would like to fight against it but at the same time view Trinamool as "equally a rival", he said. Speaking during the debate on the Governor's address in the state Assembly in Kolkata, Banerjee had said the BJP is trying to run a parallel government in West Bengal and parties like the Congress and the CPI(M) should "join hands" with the Trinamool Congress to fight against it.

Mamata Banerjee's appeal for Left, Congress, TMC to join hands 'meaningless': Sudhakar Reddy

Making her stand clear on the cut money issue, West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee Wednesday asserted that there is nothing wrong if she tries to discipline her party workers, but no one has the right to malign them without evidence.

"Whatever I had to say, I had said it at an internal meeting of party councillors. What is wrong if I try to discipline my party workers? What is wrong if I ask my party workers to ensure that there is no misuse of government schemes?" Banerjee said in the state assembly.

Protests and demonstrations have rocked various parts of the state for the past one week over people demanding that "cut money" allegedly taken by elected representatives of the ruling TMC from beneficiaries of government schemes be returned.

"Just because we are a party of the masses doesn't mean anyone has the right to malign us without any evidence," the chief minister said.

Criticising the BJP, Banerjee said the saffron party is trying to bring in an alien culture in Bengal. "The people of the state are witnessing in Bhatpara what happens if you vote for the BJP. I feel all of us [TMC, Congress and CPI(M)] should come together in the fight against the BJP. It doesn't mean we have to join hands politically, but on common issues at the national level, we can come together," she said.

A TMC citadel for long, Bhatpara has been witnessing frequent post-poll violence between the rival Bharatiya Janata Party and the Trinamool Congress.

The fight has intensified ever since Arjun Singh crossed over from the TMC to the BJP and won the Barrackpore Lok Sabha seat, under which Bhatpara falls.

"Those who will spread fake news and try to instigate riots, the administration will take stern action against them," the CM added.

Making her stand clear on the cut money issue, West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee Wednesday asserted that there is nothing wrong if she tries to discipline her party workers, but no one has the right to malign them without evidence.

Making her stand clear on the cut money issue, West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee Wednesday asserted that there is nothing wrong if she tries to discipline her party workers, but no one has the right to malign them without evidence. "Whatever I had to say, I had said it at an internal meeting of party councillors. What is wrong if I try to discipline my party workers? What is wrong if I ask my party workers to ensure that there is no misuse of government schemes?" Banerjee said in the state assembly. Protests and demonstrations have rocked various parts of the state for the past one week over people demanding that "cut money" allegedly taken by elected representatives of the ruling TMC from beneficiaries of government schemes be returned. "Just because we are a party of the masses doesn't mean anyone has the right to malign us without any evidence," the chief minister said. Criticising the BJP, Banerjee said the saffron party is trying to bring in an alien culture in Bengal. "The people of the state are witnessing in Bhatpara what happens if you vote for the BJP. I feel all of us [TMC, Congress and CPI(M)] should come together in the fight against the BJP. It doesn't mean we have to join hands politically, but on common issues at the national level, we can come together," she said. A TMC citadel for long, Bhatpara has been witnessing frequent post-poll violence between the rival Bharatiya Janata Party and the Trinamool Congress. The fight has intensified ever since Arjun Singh crossed over from the TMC to the BJP and won the Barrackpore Lok Sabha seat, under which Bhatpara falls. "Those who will spread fake news and try to instigate riots, the administration will take stern action against them," the CM added.

Nothing wrong in disciplining party workers: Mamata on cut money issue

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