Several people, including some police personnel, were injured in clashes between supporters of the BJP and the ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal's Cooch Behar district on Tuesday evening. Watch the video to know more.

India Elections: TMC-BJP workers clash in West Bengal after political meetings conclude

<p>Saket Gokhale, an Indian Member of Parliament, on Monday (Mar 18) filed a complaint with the Election Commission of India (ECI) against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gokhale of Trinamool Congress party claimed that PM Modi violated the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for using an Indian Air Force helicopter to attend an election rally in Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his social media post, Gokhale said, "Filed a complaint with the Election Commission against Modi for using an Indian Air Force helicopter to attend an election rally in AC 96-Chilakaluripet in Palnadu, Andhra Pradesh yesterday".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-ji-twisting-shakti-remark-rahul-gandhi-clears-stance-on-pm-modis-jaan-ki-baazi-attack-701555">'Modi ji twisting 'Shakti' remark': Rahul Gandhi clears stance on PM Modi's 'jaan ki baazi' attack</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The politician referred to EC rules which according to him prohibit the use of state machinery for campaigning. The same rule which had disqualified former prime minister Indira Gandhi in 1975.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If BJP paid for renting the IAF chopper, then EC should let us all know along with the grounds for why an IAF chopper was essential (CMs &amp; other Z+ protectees use normal VVIP choppers which have all required security features)," he said in his post on X as he made the complaint public by sharing its photo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian politician said in a separate post that the Supreme Court doesn't interfere in electoral matters, hence, he approached the election commission.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Complaint against PM Modi with ECI for violating code of conduct 👇<br />
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Filed a complaint with the Election Commission against Modi for using an Indian Air Force helicopter to attend an election rally in AC 96-Chilakaluripet in Palnadu, Andhra Pradesh yesterday<br />
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EC rules prohibit… <a href="https://t.co/vHp8ooE32Z">pic.twitter.com/vHp8ooE32Z</a></p>
— Saket Gokhale (@SaketGokhale) <a href="https://twitter.com/SaketGokhale/status/1769555927215054917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>What do the rules say?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>"The Commission directs that, subject to exceptions mentioned herein, there shall be a total and absolute ban on the use of official vehicles for campaigning, electioneering, or election-related travel during elections. There shall be a total prohibition on the use of any vehicles such as helicopters, aircraft (except as regulated by the Commission's order on the subject), cars, jeeps, automobiles, boats, hovercrafts, etc., belonging to the (i) Central Government, (ii) State Government/UT Administration, (iii) Public Undertakings of the Central and State Governments, (iv) Joint Sector Undertakings of the Central and State Governments, (v) Local Bodies, (vi) Marketing Boards, (vii) Co-operative Societies, (viii) Autonomous District Councils, or any other body in which public funds, however small a portion of the total, are invested for any purpose connected with the elections, by any political party, candidate, or any other person connected with the election (except officials performing any election-related official duty)."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-prime-minister-narendra-modi-congratulates-russian-president-vladimir-putin-on-his-re-election-701516">PM Modi congratulates Russian President Vladimir Putin on his re-election</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi concludes rally in Mumbai | Will Bharat Jodo Yatra have an impact?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>But on page number 105 under the subheading of "Use of Aircraft / Helicopter by Political Parties", an exception has been mentioned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It reads that "during the election process, there is a complete ban on the use of aircraft by political functionaries, including the Chief Minister and Ministers. The only exemption is for the Prime Minister in office."&nbsp;</p>

<p>When a user highlighted the same, Gokhale replied that the "exception is for the use of official bulletproof vehicles &amp; convoy vehicles (like jammer cars etc). for security reasons &amp; NOT for using IAF helicopters".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Saket Gokhale, an Indian Member of Parliament, on Monday (Mar 18) filed a complaint with the Election Commission of India (ECI) against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Saket Gokhale, an Indian Member of Parliament, on Monday (Mar 18) filed a complaint with the Election Commission of India (ECI) against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Gokhale of Trinamool Congress party claimed that PM Modi violated the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for using an Indian Air Force helicopter to attend an election rally in Andhra Pradesh. In his social media post, Gokhale said, "Filed a complaint with the Election Commission against Modi for using an Indian Air Force helicopter to attend an election rally in AC 96-Chilakaluripet in Palnadu, Andhra Pradesh yesterday". Also read: 'Modi ji twisting 'Shakti' remark': Rahul Gandhi clears stance on PM Modi's 'jaan ki baazi' attack The politician referred to EC rules which according to him prohibit the use of state machinery for campaigning. The same rule which had disqualified former prime minister Indira Gandhi in 1975. "If BJP paid for renting the IAF chopper, then EC should let us all know along with the grounds for why an IAF chopper was essential (CMs & other Z+ protectees use normal VVIP choppers which have all required security features)," he said in his post on X as he made the complaint public by sharing its photo. The Indian politician said in a separate post that the Supreme Court doesn't interfere in electoral matters, hence, he approached the election commission. Complaint against PM Modi with ECI for violating code of conduct 👇 Filed a complaint with the Election Commission against Modi for using an Indian Air Force helicopter to attend an election rally in AC 96-Chilakaluripet in Palnadu, Andhra Pradesh yesterday EC rules prohibit… pic.twitter.com/vHp8ooE32Z — Saket Gokhale (@SaketGokhale) March 18, 2024 × What do the rules say? "The Commission directs that, subject to exceptions mentioned herein, there shall be a total and absolute ban on the use of official vehicles for campaigning, electioneering, or election-related travel during elections. There shall be a total prohibition on the use of any vehicles such as helicopters, aircraft (except as regulated by the Commission's order on the subject), cars, jeeps, automobiles, boats, hovercrafts, etc., belonging to the (i) Central Government, (ii) State Government/UT Administration, (iii) Public Undertakings of the Central and State Governments, (iv) Joint Sector Undertakings of the Central and State Governments, (v) Local Bodies, (vi) Marketing Boards, (vii) Co-operative Societies, (viii) Autonomous District Councils, or any other body in which public funds, however small a portion of the total, are invested for any purpose connected with the elections, by any political party, candidate, or any other person connected with the election (except officials performing any election-related official duty)." Also read: PM Modi congratulates Russian President Vladimir Putin on his re-election Watch: Rahul Gandhi concludes rally in Mumbai | Will Bharat Jodo Yatra have an impact? × But on page number 105 under the subheading of "Use of Aircraft / Helicopter by Political Parties", an exception has been mentioned. It reads that "during the election process, there is a complete ban on the use of aircraft by political functionaries, including the Chief Minister and Ministers. The only exemption is for the Prime Minister in office." When a user highlighted the same, Gokhale replied that the "exception is for the use of official bulletproof vehicles & convoy vehicles (like jammer cars etc). for security reasons & NOT for using IAF helicopters". (With inputs from agencies)

Complaint filed against PM Modi over use of IAF helicopter during election rally. What do rules say?

<p>Trinamool Congress leader and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee&nbsp;suffered a major head injury following which she was hospitalised. Banerjee was admitted at&nbsp;Seth Sukhlal Karnani Memorial Hospital, colloquially known as P.G. Hospital, in West Bengal capital Kolkata. Hours later on March 14, Banerjee was seen coming out of the hospital premises in a vehicle.</p>

<p>Dr Manimoy Bandopadhyay, director of SSKM Hospital, said in an official statement: "Chief Minister of West Bengal reported to our hospital today around 07:30 pm with a history of fall within the vicinity of her home due to some push from behind."</p>

<p>"She had a cerebral concussion and had a sharp cut over her forehead and nose which was bleeding profusely. Initially, she was assessed by HoD neurosurgery, HoD medicine and the cardiologist of our institute and is vital so had stabilized. Three stitches were applied on the forehead and one on the nose and the required dressing was done. Investigations like ECG, CT scan, etc were done. Medical personnel have provided their opinion in these regards. She was advised to remain admitted for observation, but she preferred to go home. She will continue to be under close watch and will continue to have the treatment as per the advice of the team of doctors. She will again be assessed tomorrow and subsequent treatment will be decided accordingly...," Dr Bandopadhyay added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On hearing about the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X and said,&nbsp;"I&nbsp;pray for a quick recovery and the best health for Mamata Didi."&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Our chairperson <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MamataOfficial</a> sustained a major injury.<br />
Please keep her in your prayers 🙏🏻 <a href="https://t.co/gqLqWm1HwE">pic.twitter.com/gqLqWm1HwE</a></p>
— All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/AITCofficial/status/1768286010264502610?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to a hospital official, Banerjee slipped and hit her head on a furniture at her home, shortly after she returned from an event in South Kolkata's Ballygunge.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | West Bengal CM and TMC chairperson Mamata Banerjee shifted from Woodburn Block at SSKM Hospital to Trauma Care Centre, in Kolkata.<br />
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Party says that she sustained "a major injury" on her head. <a href="https://t.co/iFMG3mI0uA">pic.twitter.com/iFMG3mI0uA</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1768304704461635886?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi also took to social media and wished Banerjee a swift recovery.</p>

<p>"Wishing Mamata ji strength and a very swift recovery," Rahul wrote.</p>

<p>West Bengal BJP president Sukanta Majumdar also wished for a "speedy recovery" of the CM. "We wish for the speedy recovery of the chief minister…We pray to God that she recovers soon and returns to her normal health," said the BJP leader, as reported by&nbsp;ANI.</p>

<p>Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal took to X and said: "Shocked to see this. Pray for your speedy recovery Didi. God bless you."</p>

<p>Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav also took to X and wrote: "Wishing speedy recovery to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee."</p>


Trinamool Congress leader and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee suffered a major head injury following which she was hospitalised. Banerjee was admitted at Seth Sukhlal Karnani Memorial Hospital, colloquially known as P.

Trinamool Congress leader and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee suffered a major head injury following which she was hospitalised. Banerjee was admitted at Seth Sukhlal Karnani Memorial Hospital, colloquially known as P.G. Hospital, in West Bengal capital Kolkata. Hours later on March 14, Banerjee was seen coming out of the hospital premises in a vehicle. Dr Manimoy Bandopadhyay, director of SSKM Hospital, said in an official statement: "Chief Minister of West Bengal reported to our hospital today around 07:30 pm with a history of fall within the vicinity of her home due to some push from behind." "She had a cerebral concussion and had a sharp cut over her forehead and nose which was bleeding profusely. Initially, she was assessed by HoD neurosurgery, HoD medicine and the cardiologist of our institute and is vital so had stabilized. Three stitches were applied on the forehead and one on the nose and the required dressing was done. Investigations like ECG, CT scan, etc were done. Medical personnel have provided their opinion in these regards. She was advised to remain admitted for observation, but she preferred to go home. She will continue to be under close watch and will continue to have the treatment as per the advice of the team of doctors. She will again be assessed tomorrow and subsequent treatment will be decided accordingly...," Dr Bandopadhyay added. On hearing about the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X and said, "I pray for a quick recovery and the best health for Mamata Didi." Our chairperson @MamataOfficial sustained a major injury. Please keep her in your prayers 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/gqLqWm1HwE — All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) March 14, 2024 × According to a hospital official, Banerjee slipped and hit her head on a furniture at her home, shortly after she returned from an event in South Kolkata's Ballygunge. #WATCH | West Bengal CM and TMC chairperson Mamata Banerjee shifted from Woodburn Block at SSKM Hospital to Trauma Care Centre, in Kolkata. Party says that she sustained "a major injury" on her head. pic.twitter.com/iFMG3mI0uA — ANI (@ANI) March 14, 2024 × Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi also took to social media and wished Banerjee a swift recovery. "Wishing Mamata ji strength and a very swift recovery," Rahul wrote. West Bengal BJP president Sukanta Majumdar also wished for a "speedy recovery" of the CM. "We wish for the speedy recovery of the chief minister…We pray to God that she recovers soon and returns to her normal health," said the BJP leader, as reported by ANI. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal took to X and said: "Shocked to see this. Pray for your speedy recovery Didi. God bless you." Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav also took to X and wrote: "Wishing speedy recovery to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee."

Mamata Banerjee suffers 'major' head injury 'due to some push from behind'

<p>Following the Trinamool Congress' (TMC) announcement of its candidates for all 42 seats in West Bengal for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, senior Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury took a dig at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stating that she was fearful of PM Modi.</p>

<p>"Mamata Banerjee is worried that if she joins the INDIA Alliance, she will have to face Modi. She is worried that if the ED and CBI start visiting TMC on Modi's orders, it could pose a risk to the TMC party. So, by distancing herself from the alliance, Mamata Banerjee is sending a message to Modi's office: Don't be upset with me; I'm not part of the alliance and I won't compete with the BJP," he said.</p>

<p>He further claimed that Banerjee's main aim was to defeat Chowdhury at any cost, even if that meant BJP's victory.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/drug-marketing-kazhagam-bjp-takes-a-dig-at-dmk-after-drug-racket-busted-698672">‘Drug Marketing Kazhagam’: BJP takes a dig at DMK, claims Stalin’s daughter-in-law directed kingpin’s film</a></p>

<p>"Adhir Chowdhary must be defeated at any cost. Mamata Banerjee has no problem if the BJP wins instead, that's why Yusuf Pathan was nominated," he said.</p>

<p>Mamata's announcement included a surprise nomination for former cricketer Yousuf Pathan from the Berhampore Lok Sabha seat from&nbsp;where Congress heavyweight, Adhir Chowdhury is a sitting MP.</p>

<p>Among noteworthy candidates, Mahua Moitra will fight from Krishnanagar, Saayoni Ghosh from Jadavpur, Gopal Lamba from Darjeeling, Abhishek Banerjee from Diamond Harbour, and actor Shatrughan Sinha from Asansol.</p>

<p>In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the TMC had secured 22 seats, a decrease from its previous count in 2014. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of the NDA alliance had made significant gains, capturing 18 seats. While the Congress at the time only managed to secure two seats.</p>

<p>As West Bengal gears up for the elections with 42 parliamentary constituencies in the state, TMC attempted a seat-sharing agreement with the Congress as part of the Opposition's INDIA bloc but failed.</p>

<p>As recently as Sunday (Mar 10), the West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC chief Mamata Banerjee declared that there would be no seat adjustments with Congress in the state.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Following the Trinamool Congress' (TMC) announcement of its candidates for all 42 seats in West Bengal for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, senior Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury took a dig at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stating that she was fearful of PM Modi.

Following the Trinamool Congress' (TMC) announcement of its candidates for all 42 seats in West Bengal for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, senior Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury took a dig at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stating that she was fearful of PM Modi. "Mamata Banerjee is worried that if she joins the INDIA Alliance, she will have to face Modi. She is worried that if the ED and CBI start visiting TMC on Modi's orders, it could pose a risk to the TMC party. So, by distancing herself from the alliance, Mamata Banerjee is sending a message to Modi's office: Don't be upset with me; I'm not part of the alliance and I won't compete with the BJP," he said. He further claimed that Banerjee's main aim was to defeat Chowdhury at any cost, even if that meant BJP's victory. Also read: ‘Drug Marketing Kazhagam’: BJP takes a dig at DMK, claims Stalin’s daughter-in-law directed kingpin’s film "Adhir Chowdhary must be defeated at any cost. Mamata Banerjee has no problem if the BJP wins instead, that's why Yusuf Pathan was nominated," he said. Mamata's announcement included a surprise nomination for former cricketer Yousuf Pathan from the Berhampore Lok Sabha seat from where Congress heavyweight, Adhir Chowdhury is a sitting MP. Among noteworthy candidates, Mahua Moitra will fight from Krishnanagar, Saayoni Ghosh from Jadavpur, Gopal Lamba from Darjeeling, Abhishek Banerjee from Diamond Harbour, and actor Shatrughan Sinha from Asansol. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the TMC had secured 22 seats, a decrease from its previous count in 2014. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of the NDA alliance had made significant gains, capturing 18 seats. While the Congress at the time only managed to secure two seats. As West Bengal gears up for the elections with 42 parliamentary constituencies in the state, TMC attempted a seat-sharing agreement with the Congress as part of the Opposition's INDIA bloc but failed. As recently as Sunday (Mar 10), the West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC chief Mamata Banerjee declared that there would be no seat adjustments with Congress in the state. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls: ‘Mamata shouldn’t be trusted,’ Congress’ Adhir Ranjan reacts to TMC going solo

<p>The All India Trinamool Congress (AITC), the Indian political party with its bastion in West Bengal, on Sunday (Mar 10) announced the names of all 42 candidates from the state for the upcoming Lok Sabha&nbsp;(Lower House of the Indian Parliament) polls.</p>

<p>Among noteworthy candidates, Mahua Moitra will fight from Krishnanagar, former cricketer Yusuf Pathan from Berhampore,&nbsp;Saayoni Ghosh from Jadavpur,&nbsp;Gopal Lamba from Darjeeling,&nbsp;Abhishek Banerjee from Diamond Harbour, and actor Shatrughan Sinha from Asansol.</p>

<p>The announcement came&nbsp;following a lot of political maneuvering and shifting allegiances ahead of the general elections expected to be held in the country in April-May.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the TMC had secured 22 seats, a decrease from its previous count in 2014. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of the NDA alliance had made significant gains, capturing 18 seats. While&nbsp;the Congress at the time only managed to secure two seats.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chola-and-jatayu-indian-navys-ode-to-maritime-history-in-a-week-of-naval-milestones-698433">Chola and Jatayu: Indian Navy's ode to maritime history in a week of naval milestones</a></p>

<p>As West Bengal&nbsp;gears&nbsp;up for the elections with 42 parliamentary constituencies in the state, TMC attempted a seat-sharing agreement with the Congress as part of the Opposition's INDIA bloc, but failed.</p>

<p>As recently as Sunday (Mar 10), the West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC chief Mamata Banerjee declared that there would be no seat adjustments with Congress in the state.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-launches-scathing-attack-on-tmc-says-trinamool-made-fake-mnrega-job-cards-698419">PM Modi launches scathing attack on TMC, says ‘Trinamool made fake MNREGA job cards’</a></p>

<p>This is yet another statement by the state CM after her January comments where she affirmed the TMC's decision to contest alone in West Bengal after failed negotiations with the Congress. "Whatever proposal I gave them, they have refused all," she had stated while adding, "Since then, we have decided to go alone in Bengal."</p>

<p>The negotiations seemingly failed after TMC's stance on seat-sharing remained firm. The party had offered only two seats to the Congress based on electoral performance criteria, which&nbsp;was rejected by the grand old party.</p>

<p>Media reports citing sources have said that the candidate list to be announced by the TMC may feature familiar names. This could include current MPs, while also introducing some fresh faces.&nbsp;In a surprising move, the TMC might also announce candidate names&nbsp;for Assam, Meghalaya, and Uttar Pradesh.</p>

<h2><strong>'Jana Garjan Sabha' rally&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The announcement coincided with the 'Jana Garjan Sabha' rally. The rally led by the state CM drew a massive crowd of supporters.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
“We are organising a rally at Brigade Parade Grounds after a long time. It is going to be a historic event. Our party supremo Mamata Banerjee will give a message which we will take to every nook and corner of West Bengal and ensure the defeat of the BJP in all the 42 Lok Sabha seats of the state,” PTI news agency reported earlier while quoting TMC leader Firhad Hakim.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-over-14-billion-to-spent-by-political-parties-says-report-698489">India: Over $14 billion to spent by political parties, says report</a></strong></p>

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<p>This gathering is also occurring amid a flurry of political defections, with former TMC MLA Tapas Roy and BJP MLA Mukut Mani Adhikari making switches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The TMC, however, faces challenges following recent controversies, notably the upheaval in Sandeshkhali, where allegations of land grab and sexual harassment against suspended TMC leader Shahjahan Sheikh sparked violent protests. Founded by Mamata Banerjee in 1998, the AITC has rapidly ascended in West Bengal's politics after it broke away from the Indian National Congress.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The All India Trinamool Congress (AITC), the Indian political party with its bastion in West Bengal, on Sunday (Mar 10) announced the names of all 42 candidates from the state for the upcoming Lok Sabha (Lower House of the Indian Parliament) polls.

The All India Trinamool Congress (AITC), the Indian political party with its bastion in West Bengal, on Sunday (Mar 10) announced the names of all 42 candidates from the state for the upcoming Lok Sabha (Lower House of the Indian Parliament) polls. Among noteworthy candidates, Mahua Moitra will fight from Krishnanagar, former cricketer Yusuf Pathan from Berhampore, Saayoni Ghosh from Jadavpur, Gopal Lamba from Darjeeling, Abhishek Banerjee from Diamond Harbour, and actor Shatrughan Sinha from Asansol. The announcement came following a lot of political maneuvering and shifting allegiances ahead of the general elections expected to be held in the country in April-May. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the TMC had secured 22 seats, a decrease from its previous count in 2014. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of the NDA alliance had made significant gains, capturing 18 seats. While the Congress at the time only managed to secure two seats. Also Read | Chola and Jatayu: Indian Navy's ode to maritime history in a week of naval milestones As West Bengal gears up for the elections with 42 parliamentary constituencies in the state, TMC attempted a seat-sharing agreement with the Congress as part of the Opposition's INDIA bloc, but failed. As recently as Sunday (Mar 10), the West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC chief Mamata Banerjee declared that there would be no seat adjustments with Congress in the state. Also Read | PM Modi launches scathing attack on TMC, says ‘Trinamool made fake MNREGA job cards’ This is yet another statement by the state CM after her January comments where she affirmed the TMC's decision to contest alone in West Bengal after failed negotiations with the Congress. "Whatever proposal I gave them, they have refused all," she had stated while adding, "Since then, we have decided to go alone in Bengal." The negotiations seemingly failed after TMC's stance on seat-sharing remained firm. The party had offered only two seats to the Congress based on electoral performance criteria, which was rejected by the grand old party. Media reports citing sources have said that the candidate list to be announced by the TMC may feature familiar names. This could include current MPs, while also introducing some fresh faces. In a surprising move, the TMC might also announce candidate names for Assam, Meghalaya, and Uttar Pradesh. 'Jana Garjan Sabha' rally The announcement coincided with the 'Jana Garjan Sabha' rally. The rally led by the state CM drew a massive crowd of supporters. “We are organising a rally at Brigade Parade Grounds after a long time. It is going to be a historic event. Our party supremo Mamata Banerjee will give a message which we will take to every nook and corner of West Bengal and ensure the defeat of the BJP in all the 42 Lok Sabha seats of the state,” PTI news agency reported earlier while quoting TMC leader Firhad Hakim. Watch | India: Over $14 billion to spent by political parties, says report × This gathering is also occurring amid a flurry of political defections, with former TMC MLA Tapas Roy and BJP MLA Mukut Mani Adhikari making switches. The TMC, however, faces challenges following recent controversies, notably the upheaval in Sandeshkhali, where allegations of land grab and sexual harassment against suspended TMC leader Shahjahan Sheikh sparked violent protests. Founded by Mamata Banerjee in 1998, the AITC has rapidly ascended in West Bengal's politics after it broke away from the Indian National Congress. (With inputs from agencies)

India elections 2024: Trinamool dumps oppn INDIA bloc, announces all 42 candidates in Bengal

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra on Saturday (March 9) launched a scathing attack against Trinamool Congress and the opposition's INDIA bloc claiming that the "entire country is discussing what TMC leaders did to the Dalit and Adivasi women of Sandeshkhali" and that the government of West Bengal is unaffected when people are struggling or suffering.</p>

<p>While addressing a gathering in Siliguri, PM Modi accused the TMC of creating 25 lakh fake job cards to benefit the party's "tolabaz".</p>

<p>"TMC government gives money to people chosen by 'tolabaz'. It does not affect TMC whether you are struggling or suffering. The entire country is discussing what TMC leaders did to the Dalit and Adivasi women of Sandeshkhali. Atrocities against women and to loot the hard-earned money of the poor this is what TMC's 'tolabaz' do," he said.</p>

<p>He then slammed the TMC over the release of MGNREGA wages and said that the BJP-ruled Centre sends the money but the TMC government steals it.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-dmk-allots-10-seats-for-congress-in-tamil-nadu-puducherry-698377">Lok Sabha elections 2024: DMK allots 10 seats for Congress in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry</a></p>

<p>"TMC government is looting you at every step. Modi sends the money for MNREGA wages from Delhi but the TMC government here has looted you at every step. To benefit the TMC's 'tolabaz', 25 lakh fake job cards were created and given to the people. If Modi sends money to the poor's houses, then the TMC government gives your money to the people chosen by 'tolabaz'," the Indian prime minister said.</p>

<p>He then said that the entire country saw what West Bengal was going through but &nbsp;"first the left did not listen to you and then the TMC also ignored you. They were busy looting the land of the poor".</p>

<p>"Therefore, when you gave me the opportunity I gave back all those facilities to you all. We gave free gas connections to the sisters under the Ujjwala scheme, but the TMC government is not even allowing Ujjwala gas connections to more than 14 lakh sisters. Yesterday on Women's Day, we have taken another step that now the gas cylinder will become cheaper by Rs 100 more. The free ration scheme has also been extended for another five years," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra on Saturday (March 9) launched a scathing attack against Trinamool Congress and the opposition's INDIA bloc claiming that the "entire country is discussing what TMC leaders did to the Dalit and Adivasi women of Sandeshkhali" and that the government of West Bengal is unaffected when people are struggling or suffering.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra on Saturday (March 9) launched a scathing attack against Trinamool Congress and the opposition's INDIA bloc claiming that the "entire country is discussing what TMC leaders did to the Dalit and Adivasi women of Sandeshkhali" and that the government of West Bengal is unaffected when people are struggling or suffering. While addressing a gathering in Siliguri, PM Modi accused the TMC of creating 25 lakh fake job cards to benefit the party's "tolabaz". "TMC government gives money to people chosen by 'tolabaz'. It does not affect TMC whether you are struggling or suffering. The entire country is discussing what TMC leaders did to the Dalit and Adivasi women of Sandeshkhali. Atrocities against women and to loot the hard-earned money of the poor this is what TMC's 'tolabaz' do," he said. He then slammed the TMC over the release of MGNREGA wages and said that the BJP-ruled Centre sends the money but the TMC government steals it. Also read: Lok Sabha elections 2024: DMK allots 10 seats for Congress in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry "TMC government is looting you at every step. Modi sends the money for MNREGA wages from Delhi but the TMC government here has looted you at every step. To benefit the TMC's 'tolabaz', 25 lakh fake job cards were created and given to the people. If Modi sends money to the poor's houses, then the TMC government gives your money to the people chosen by 'tolabaz'," the Indian prime minister said. He then said that the entire country saw what West Bengal was going through but "first the left did not listen to you and then the TMC also ignored you. They were busy looting the land of the poor". "Therefore, when you gave me the opportunity I gave back all those facilities to you all. We gave free gas connections to the sisters under the Ujjwala scheme, but the TMC government is not even allowing Ujjwala gas connections to more than 14 lakh sisters. Yesterday on Women's Day, we have taken another step that now the gas cylinder will become cheaper by Rs 100 more. The free ration scheme has also been extended for another five years," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi launches scathing attack on TMC, says ‘Trinamool made fake MNREGA job cards’

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidpX3tHgKdIh4G" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Veteran Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Tapas Roy resigned from the party on Sunday (Mar 3) just months ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in India, the news agency PTI reported. Roy, 67, an MLA from West Bengal's Baranagar said he quit as he felt he was not respected in the party. Roy submitted his resignation to Assembly Speaker Biman Banerjee and said he had already put in his papers on March 1 for the multiple party and state government positions he held.</p>

<p>Speaking to reporters outside his residence, Roy criticised the TMC leadership for not standing by him when his house was raided by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in January.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Roy hits out at Mamata Banerjee</strong></h2>

<p>He said that TMC supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee "stood in the assembly and said that the ED was targeting Shajahan Sheikh. I was expecting her to speak a word or two about the raids at my place which devastated my family. But not a word was spoken."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/can-tmcs-solo-act-in-bengal-shake-india-alliance-mamata-says-will-fight-on-all-42-seats-alone-683142">Can TMC's solo act in Bengal shake INDIA alliance? Mamata says will fight on all 42 seats 'alone'</a></strong></p>

<p>"I have reasons to believe that a section of my party leaders were responsible for orchestrating the ED operation at my residence. I was devastated to know that some of them were rejoicing when my house was being raided and my family members were suffering deep trauma," he added.</p>

<p>The 67-year-old further expressed gratitude for opposition party leaders who reached out to him during the raids. "Fifty-two days have passed since the raids, yet I haven’t received a single phone call from the supreme leader (Mamata Banerjee) offering her reassurance,” he further said.</p>

<p>Roy resigned despite TMC leaders rushing to his residence on Monday morning in their last-ditch effort to pacify and dissuade him from carrying out his decision to resign, PTI reported.</p>

<h2><strong>TMC dismisses Roy's allegations</strong></h2>

<p>The TMC dismissed Roy's allegations as baseless, and said that the 67-year-old was exerting “undue pressure for a ticket” from the North Kolkata seat for the upcoming elections.</p>

<p>The TMC also questioned the timing of his resignation and pointed out his history of shifting party allegiance.</p>

<p>“For quite some time, Roy was making baseless allegations against party leader Sudip Bandyopadhyay. He was trying to exert pressure by using several undue means. He was trying to blackmail the party for a ticket from the North Kolkata seat. Now, he may join the BJP,” senior TMC leader Kalyan Banerjee.</p>

<p>Speaking to PTI, TMC sources said that the party got in touch with Roy just two days after the ED raids.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Veteran Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Tapas Roy resigned from the party on Sunday (Mar 3) just months ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in India, the news agency PTI reported.

Veteran Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Tapas Roy resigned from the party on Sunday (Mar 3) just months ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in India, the news agency PTI reported. Roy, 67, an MLA from West Bengal's Baranagar said he quit as he felt he was not respected in the party. Roy submitted his resignation to Assembly Speaker Biman Banerjee and said he had already put in his papers on March 1 for the multiple party and state government positions he held. Speaking to reporters outside his residence, Roy criticised the TMC leadership for not standing by him when his house was raided by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in January. Roy hits out at Mamata Banerjee He said that TMC supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee "stood in the assembly and said that the ED was targeting Shajahan Sheikh. I was expecting her to speak a word or two about the raids at my place which devastated my family. But not a word was spoken." Also read | Can TMC's solo act in Bengal shake INDIA alliance? Mamata says will fight on all 42 seats 'alone' "I have reasons to believe that a section of my party leaders were responsible for orchestrating the ED operation at my residence. I was devastated to know that some of them were rejoicing when my house was being raided and my family members were suffering deep trauma," he added. The 67-year-old further expressed gratitude for opposition party leaders who reached out to him during the raids. "Fifty-two days have passed since the raids, yet I haven’t received a single phone call from the supreme leader (Mamata Banerjee) offering her reassurance,” he further said. Roy resigned despite TMC leaders rushing to his residence on Monday morning in their last-ditch effort to pacify and dissuade him from carrying out his decision to resign, PTI reported. TMC dismisses Roy's allegations The TMC dismissed Roy's allegations as baseless, and said that the 67-year-old was exerting “undue pressure for a ticket” from the North Kolkata seat for the upcoming elections. The TMC also questioned the timing of his resignation and pointed out his history of shifting party allegiance. “For quite some time, Roy was making baseless allegations against party leader Sudip Bandyopadhyay. He was trying to exert pressure by using several undue means. He was trying to blackmail the party for a ticket from the North Kolkata seat. Now, he may join the BJP,” senior TMC leader Kalyan Banerjee. Speaking to PTI, TMC sources said that the party got in touch with Roy just two days after the ED raids. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha elections 2024: Veteran TMC leader Tapas Roy quits party ahead of polls

Trinamool Congress Leader Sheikh Shahjahan has been arrested by the West Bengal in the Sandeshkhali violence row. He is accused of sexual atrocities, land grabbing and money laundering. West Bengal's Sandeshkhali has been on the boil for weeks now after several women in the area level sexual assault allegations on the TMC leader and his aides. Two of his associates were arrested earlier this month after protests erupted in the area. Watch to know more!

Sandeshkhali violence: TMC's Sheikh Shahjahan gets arrested after 55 days, was at large since Jan 5

Sandeshkhali violence: TMC strongman, Sheikh Shahjahan, to be produced before court

West Bengal Governor CV Bose directed the state government to immediately arrest Trinamool Congress Leader Sheikh Shahjahan. he is accused of sexual atrocities, land grabbing and money laundering.

Sandeshkhali violence: West Bengal Governor directs to arrest Sheikh Shahjahan immediately

West Bengal Governor CV Bose directed the state government to immediately arrest Trinamool Congress Leader Sheikh Shahjahan. He is accused of sexual atrocities, land grabbing and money laundering. West Bengal's Sandeshkhali has been on the boil for weeks now after several women in the area level sexual assault allegations on the TMC leader and his aides. Two of his associates were arrested earlier this month after protests erupted in the area. Watch to know more!

Sandeshkhali violence: Trinamool Congress says, 'Will arrest Sheikh Shahjahan within 7 days'

<p>Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien on Friday (Feb 23) stated that there has been "no change" in the party's stance of running for all 42 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal, a few in Assam, and one in Meghalaya.</p>

<p>"A few weeks ago, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee stated that TMC is fighting all the 42 seats in Bengal. We are also in the fray in a few seats in Assam and the Tura Lok Sabha seat in Meghalaya. There is no change in this position," he said, hinting at the party's unwillingness to ally with its INDIA bloc partner Congress.</p>

<p>This came amid rumours that the Congress is close to finalizing its seat-sharing arrangements with the party.</p>

<p>The Congress and the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC, which are also a part of the opposition bloc INDIA, reportedly reopened negotiations to challenge the BJP-led NDA together in the Lok Sabha elections that are scheduled to take place in April-May 2024.</p>

<p>However, O’Brien in the Rajya Sabha said, “A few weeks ago…West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated that TMC is fighting all the 42 seats in Bengal. We are also in the fray in a few seats in Assam and the Tura Lok Sabha seat in Meghalaya. There is no change in this position.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ex-mumbai-youth-congress-president-zeeshan-siddique-says-was-asked-to-lose-10-kg-to-meet-rahul-gandhi-693068">India: Ex-Mumbai Youth Congress President Zeeshan Siddique says was asked to lose 10 kg to meet Rahul Gandhi</a></p>

<h2><strong>Congress says discussion underway</strong></h2>

<p>Congress MP, reacting to Derek's comments which hinted toward a no-alliance, said that the discussions with the party were underway and that despite heated discussions, Congress respects Mamata Banerjee.</p>

<p>“Discussions are underway. Our doors are always open for TMC. Mamata Banerjee and TMC have said that they want to strengthen the INDIA Alliance and the biggest motive is to defeat the BJP,” Ramesh told news agency ANI.</p>

<p>“Heated discussions keep taking place between the two parties but we respect Mamata Banerjee,” he added.</p>

<p>The Congress has finalized its seat-sharing agreements with the Samajwadi Party in Uttar Pradesh and the Aam Aadmi Party in Delhi, following some initial snags.</p>

<p>“The important thing is that an official announcement has been made for the alliance(in UP)...It took time to give it a final form...Today, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress are also making an official announcement about the alliance. It was being said again and again that Congress is lazy and not interested but I always said that it takes time,” Ramesh said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien on Friday (Feb 23) stated that there has been "no change" in the party's stance of running for all 42 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal, a few in Assam, and one in Meghalaya.

Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien on Friday (Feb 23) stated that there has been "no change" in the party's stance of running for all 42 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal, a few in Assam, and one in Meghalaya. "A few weeks ago, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee stated that TMC is fighting all the 42 seats in Bengal. We are also in the fray in a few seats in Assam and the Tura Lok Sabha seat in Meghalaya. There is no change in this position," he said, hinting at the party's unwillingness to ally with its INDIA bloc partner Congress. This came amid rumours that the Congress is close to finalizing its seat-sharing arrangements with the party. The Congress and the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC, which are also a part of the opposition bloc INDIA, reportedly reopened negotiations to challenge the BJP-led NDA together in the Lok Sabha elections that are scheduled to take place in April-May 2024. However, O’Brien in the Rajya Sabha said, “A few weeks ago…West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated that TMC is fighting all the 42 seats in Bengal. We are also in the fray in a few seats in Assam and the Tura Lok Sabha seat in Meghalaya. There is no change in this position.” Also read: India: Ex-Mumbai Youth Congress President Zeeshan Siddique says was asked to lose 10 kg to meet Rahul Gandhi Congress says discussion underway Congress MP, reacting to Derek's comments which hinted toward a no-alliance, said that the discussions with the party were underway and that despite heated discussions, Congress respects Mamata Banerjee. “Discussions are underway. Our doors are always open for TMC. Mamata Banerjee and TMC have said that they want to strengthen the INDIA Alliance and the biggest motive is to defeat the BJP,” Ramesh told news agency ANI. “Heated discussions keep taking place between the two parties but we respect Mamata Banerjee,” he added. The Congress has finalized its seat-sharing agreements with the Samajwadi Party in Uttar Pradesh and the Aam Aadmi Party in Delhi, following some initial snags. “The important thing is that an official announcement has been made for the alliance(in UP)...It took time to give it a final form...Today, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress are also making an official announcement about the alliance. It was being said again and again that Congress is lazy and not interested but I always said that it takes time,” Ramesh said. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress says discussion underway as Trinamool hints at no alliance

<p>Indian Supreme Court on Monday (Feb 19) rejected a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking a court-monitored probe by government agencies into the violence in Sandeshkhali village in West Bengal state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's top court said that the incident that happened in Sandeshkhali could not be compared to the violence in northern eastern state of Manipur. A bench of Justices BV Nagarathna and Augustine George Masih said that the Calcutta High Court is already seized of the matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bench said: "The local high court will be the best to assess the situation. Let there be no dual forums." The bench also granted the PIL petitioner the liberty to approach the high court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This development comes amid reports that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Suvendu Adhikari apparently said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per reports, Adhikari was granted permission by the Calcutta High Court to visit Sandehkhali. He is expected to visit the gram panchayat in Sandeshkhali Block-II on Tuesday, as directed by Justice Kaushik Chanda.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-protest-in-india-samyukta-kisan-morcha-rejects-centres-five-year-msp-contract-offer-691742">Farmers' body in India rejects government's five-year MSP contract offer calling it diversion</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>What's happening in Sandeshkhali?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Sandeshkhali is a village in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district. It has seen violent protests amid allegations that a local Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader and his supporters sexually abused women.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several women have accused local TMC leader Shajahan Sheikh and his allies of land-grabbing and sexual abuse. As per the report, Sheikh has been on the run.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While talking to the media, National Commission for Women (NCW) Chairperson Rekha Sharma said that several women came forward and complained about molestation when she visited Sandeshkhali.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sps-akhilesh-yadav-shuns-rahul-gandhis-march-as-deeper-crack-appears-in-oppn-india-bloc-691721">SP’s Akhilesh Yadav shuns Rahul Gandhi’s march as deeper crack appears in oppn INDIA bloc</a>&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A home has been built by the Governor for the women of Sandeshkhali. Those who feel that they are not safe in their homes can come here and live," Sharma said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The demand of the women of Sandeshkhali is safety and we will ensure that. I want to request the state police to work without getting afraid and by staying away from the political agenda," she added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | West Bengal: NCW Chairperson Rekha Sharma says, "Today I visited Sandeshkhali and several women came forward and complained about molestation...Those who sit far away and comment that it is a political agenda should once visit here... A home has been built by the… <a href="https://t.co/VTXdAlE1YG">pic.twitter.com/VTXdAlE1YG</a></p>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Indian Supreme Court on Monday (Feb 19) rejected a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking a court-monitored probe by government agencies into the violence in Sandeshkhali village in West Bengal state.

Indian Supreme Court on Monday (Feb 19) rejected a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking a court-monitored probe by government agencies into the violence in Sandeshkhali village in West Bengal state. India's top court said that the incident that happened in Sandeshkhali could not be compared to the violence in northern eastern state of Manipur. A bench of Justices BV Nagarathna and Augustine George Masih said that the Calcutta High Court is already seized of the matter. The bench said: "The local high court will be the best to assess the situation. Let there be no dual forums." The bench also granted the PIL petitioner the liberty to approach the high court. This development comes amid reports that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Suvendu Adhikari apparently said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit the region. As per reports, Adhikari was granted permission by the Calcutta High Court to visit Sandehkhali. He is expected to visit the gram panchayat in Sandeshkhali Block-II on Tuesday, as directed by Justice Kaushik Chanda. Also read: Farmers' body in India rejects government's five-year MSP contract offer calling it diversion What's happening in Sandeshkhali? Sandeshkhali is a village in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district. It has seen violent protests amid allegations that a local Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader and his supporters sexually abused women. Several women have accused local TMC leader Shajahan Sheikh and his allies of land-grabbing and sexual abuse. As per the report, Sheikh has been on the run. While talking to the media, National Commission for Women (NCW) Chairperson Rekha Sharma said that several women came forward and complained about molestation when she visited Sandeshkhali. Also read: SP’s Akhilesh Yadav shuns Rahul Gandhi’s march as deeper crack appears in oppn INDIA bloc "A home has been built by the Governor for the women of Sandeshkhali. Those who feel that they are not safe in their homes can come here and live," Sharma said. "The demand of the women of Sandeshkhali is safety and we will ensure that. I want to request the state police to work without getting afraid and by staying away from the political agenda," she added. #WATCH | West Bengal: NCW Chairperson Rekha Sharma says, "Today I visited Sandeshkhali and several women came forward and complained about molestation...Those who sit far away and comment that it is a political agenda should once visit here... A home has been built by the… pic.twitter.com/VTXdAlE1YG — ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

Sandeshkhali violence: India's top court rejects PIL seeking court-monitored probe

<p>The situation remains tense in the&nbsp;violence-hit&nbsp;Sandeshkhali&nbsp;area of West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district where the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders&nbsp;have come under the scanner for allegations of 'systemic gang rape' and sexual exploitation of&nbsp;women.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The authorities on Tuesday (Feb 13) night imposed&nbsp;Section 144 of the&nbsp;Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) at 19 places&nbsp;in the violence-hit&nbsp;Sandeshkhali&nbsp;in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The decision by North 24 Parganas district administration came after&nbsp;the single-judge bench of Calcutta High Court, earlier in the day, scrapped the order imposing restrictions under Section 144. Under the law, a gathering of four or more people in the specified area is prohibited.&nbsp;It is imposed in urgent cases of nuisance or apprehended danger</p>

<p>However, the court had granted liberty to the state authorities to seek a prohibition order in the “exact area of disturbance”.</p>

<p>The bench of Justice Jay Sengupta also ordered the deployment of additional armed police personnel in Sandeshkhali where a clash broke out on Tuesday between police and BJP workers.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/over-100-mcdonalds-workers-report-sexual-harassment-at-workplace-617146"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Over 100 McDonald's workers report sexual harassment at workplace</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>No complaints of sexual assault, torture: Police</strong></h2>

<p>The West Bengal police have called the sexual exploitation allegations “wilful misinformation”. On Wednesday (Feb 14) night, the police took to social media to claim, “no allegations of sexual torture of women" had been received so far.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the police said no complaint of sexual assault or molestation had been received, some of the victims said they had kept silent out of fear.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“What do you call summoning us at 10 pm under the pretext of a meeting? Touching us whenever they like and wherever they like, pulling our saree? I went through that so many times and I am not alone," one of the women, in her 20s who was molested told the newspaper <em>The Indian Express</em>.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-supreme-court-tells-judges-to-not-preach-after-sexual-urge-advice-by-calcutta-high-court-667766"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India’s Supreme Court tells judges to ‘not preach’ after ‘control sexual urge’ advice by Calcutta High Court</strong></a></p>

<p>“You must understand how hard it is to speak up even now. But we did. Because Sheikh Shahjahan is absconding and TMC leaders are on the backfoot," said another, referring to a TMC leader who has been on the run ever since the&nbsp;Enforcement Directorate raided his home last month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sumit Kumar, DIG, Barasat Range said a special team had been formed to speak to the&nbsp;women and investigate any complaints in connection with rape, sexual assault or molestation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The situation remains tense in the violence-hit Sandeshkhali area of West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district where the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders have come under the scanner for allegations of 'systemic gang rape' and sexual exploitation of women.

The situation remains tense in the violence-hit Sandeshkhali area of West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district where the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders have come under the scanner for allegations of 'systemic gang rape' and sexual exploitation of women. The authorities on Tuesday (Feb 13) night imposed Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) at 19 places in the violence-hit Sandeshkhali in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district. The decision by North 24 Parganas district administration came after the single-judge bench of Calcutta High Court, earlier in the day, scrapped the order imposing restrictions under Section 144. Under the law, a gathering of four or more people in the specified area is prohibited. It is imposed in urgent cases of nuisance or apprehended danger However, the court had granted liberty to the state authorities to seek a prohibition order in the “exact area of disturbance”. The bench of Justice Jay Sengupta also ordered the deployment of additional armed police personnel in Sandeshkhali where a clash broke out on Tuesday between police and BJP workers. Watch | Over 100 McDonald's workers report sexual harassment at workplace × No complaints of sexual assault, torture: Police The West Bengal police have called the sexual exploitation allegations “wilful misinformation”. On Wednesday (Feb 14) night, the police took to social media to claim, “no allegations of sexual torture of women" had been received so far. While the police said no complaint of sexual assault or molestation had been received, some of the victims said they had kept silent out of fear. “What do you call summoning us at 10 pm under the pretext of a meeting? Touching us whenever they like and wherever they like, pulling our saree? I went through that so many times and I am not alone," one of the women, in her 20s who was molested told the newspaper The Indian Express. Also read | India’s Supreme Court tells judges to ‘not preach’ after ‘control sexual urge’ advice by Calcutta High Court “You must understand how hard it is to speak up even now. But we did. Because Sheikh Shahjahan is absconding and TMC leaders are on the backfoot," said another, referring to a TMC leader who has been on the run ever since the Enforcement Directorate raided his home last month. Sumit Kumar, DIG, Barasat Range said a special team had been formed to speak to the women and investigate any complaints in connection with rape, sexual assault or molestation. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Sandeshkhali sex abuse row - Section 144 slapped again despite Calcutta HC order in trouble-hit areas

<p>Former Trinamool Congress (TMC) Member of Parliament Mahua Moitra said in a statement through her office that she vacated the government bungalow by 10 am on Friday (January 19) before arrival of the authorities and there was 'no eviction'.</p>

<p>"House number 9B Telegraph Lane occupied by Mahua Moitra, was fully vacated by 10 am this morning (January 19, 2024) and the possession was handed over by her lawyers to the Directorate of Estates, who are inspecting and engaged in due process. Premises were vacated before authorities arrived and no eviction took place at all," said Moitra's office as quoted by news agency ANI.</p>

<p>Mahua Moitra was expelled from Lok Sabha, the lower chamber of Parliament of India, last month. She received an eviction notice earlier this week from authorities asking her to vacate the bungalow allotted by the government.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Bilkis Bano case: Gujarat government's decision to remit sentences overturned by SC</strong></p>

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<p>The TMC leader had earlier approached the Delhi High Court against the eviction order but got no relief. The court denied a stay on the eviction order.</p>

<h2><strong>High court underlines pendency with Supreme Court</strong></h2>

<p>While denying stay on the eviction order, the Delhi High Court underlined the pendency of the issue of Moitra's expulsion.</p>

<p>“In view of the pendency of the issue of expulsion of petitioner (Moitra) before the Supreme Court and the issue of extension of time to vacate the government accommodation being inextricably linked with that, coupled with the fact that as on date petitioner has no right, this court is not inclined to invoke jurisdiction under Article 226 of the Constitution of India at this stage to restrain the operation of the impugned eviction order. Accordingly, the application stands dismissed,” the&nbsp;court said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-maldives-finding-mutually-workable-solution-says-indian-foreign-ministry-681325">India-Maldives Row: Both countries finding 'mutually workable solution', says Indian foreign ministry</a></strong></p>

<p>The high court in essence, pointed to the fact that bungalow was allotted to her by virtue of her being a Member of the Parliament and she was no longer an MP after her expulsion.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1990-kashmir-terror-attack-eyewitness-identifies-yasin-malik-as-one-who-opened-fire-on-iaf-personnel-681571">1990 Kashmir terror attack: Eyewitness identifies Yasin Malik as one who opened fire on IAF personnel</a></strong></p>

<p>Moitra had contended that her expulsion from the Lok Sabha was "contrary to law and the procedure laid down by Section 3B of the Act was not followed and despite the respondent no. 1 (Estate officer) having deferred the decision till resolution of representation of the petitioner by authorities the eviction order was passed".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former Trinamool Congress (TMC) Member of Parliament Mahua Moitra said in a statement through her office that she vacated the government bungalow by 10 am on Friday (January 19) before arrival of the authorities and there was 'no eviction'.

Former Trinamool Congress (TMC) Member of Parliament Mahua Moitra said in a statement through her office that she vacated the government bungalow by 10 am on Friday (January 19) before arrival of the authorities and there was 'no eviction'. "House number 9B Telegraph Lane occupied by Mahua Moitra, was fully vacated by 10 am this morning (January 19, 2024) and the possession was handed over by her lawyers to the Directorate of Estates, who are inspecting and engaged in due process. Premises were vacated before authorities arrived and no eviction took place at all," said Moitra's office as quoted by news agency ANI. Mahua Moitra was expelled from Lok Sabha, the lower chamber of Parliament of India, last month. She received an eviction notice earlier this week from authorities asking her to vacate the bungalow allotted by the government. Watch | Bilkis Bano case: Gujarat government's decision to remit sentences overturned by SC × The TMC leader had earlier approached the Delhi High Court against the eviction order but got no relief. The court denied a stay on the eviction order. High court underlines pendency with Supreme Court While denying stay on the eviction order, the Delhi High Court underlined the pendency of the issue of Moitra's expulsion. “In view of the pendency of the issue of expulsion of petitioner (Moitra) before the Supreme Court and the issue of extension of time to vacate the government accommodation being inextricably linked with that, coupled with the fact that as on date petitioner has no right, this court is not inclined to invoke jurisdiction under Article 226 of the Constitution of India at this stage to restrain the operation of the impugned eviction order. Accordingly, the application stands dismissed,” the court said. Also Read | India-Maldives Row: Both countries finding 'mutually workable solution', says Indian foreign ministry The high court in essence, pointed to the fact that bungalow was allotted to her by virtue of her being a Member of the Parliament and she was no longer an MP after her expulsion. Also Read | 1990 Kashmir terror attack: Eyewitness identifies Yasin Malik as one who opened fire on IAF personnel Moitra had contended that her expulsion from the Lok Sabha was "contrary to law and the procedure laid down by Section 3B of the Act was not followed and despite the respondent no. 1 (Estate officer) having deferred the decision till resolution of representation of the petitioner by authorities the eviction order was passed". (With inputs from agencies)

Expelled Indian MP Mahua Moitra vacates government bungalow, says 'not evicted'

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjees-tmc-outclasses-bjp-in-west-bengal-panchayat-polls-614460">Mamata Banerjee’s TMC outclasses BJP in West Bengal panchayat polls</a></strong></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>The team was investigating the residences of block-level leaders affiliated with the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC).</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;TMC leader Kalyan Banerjee mimics Rajya Sabha Chairperson Jagdeep Dhankar again</strong></p>

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<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>West Bengal governor reacts</strong></h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>In a recorded voice message, Governor Bose expressed deep concern over the incident, describing it as alarming and deplorable.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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

India where the top Court will hear opposition leader Mahua Moitra's petition on January 3rd against her expulsion from Parliament. The Trinamool Congress Party MP was expelled from the Lok Sabha after an Ethics Committee report held her guilty of unethical conduct.

India's top court to hear Mahua Moitra's plea on January 3rd

The Trinamool Congress Party Mp Mahua Moitra expelle after a debate on the cash-for-query allegations in the Lok Sabha amid opposition fury.

Indian lawmaker Mahua Moitra expelled from Parliament, amid uproar

<p>The Ethics Committee of the lower house of Indian parliament, Lok Sabha, on Friday (Dec 8) disqualified opposition lawmaker Mahua Moitra&nbsp; following the so-called cash-for-query row. In a rare move of its kind, Moitra, 49, a former investment banker, was suspended from the Lok Sabha.</p>

<p>Moitra was a Member of Parliament for Trinamool Congress (TMC) from the east Indian West Bengal state's Krishnanagar constituency.</p>

<p>She was accused by her&nbsp;former personal friend&nbsp;and lawyer Jai Anant Dehadrai and Nishikant Dubey&nbsp;—&nbsp;a&nbsp;lawmaker from PM Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party&nbsp;— of accepting money and expensive gifts for asking a certain set of questions in Lok Sabha.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cash-for-query-row-trouble-mounts-for-mp-mahua-moitra-after-businessman-turns-approver-648981">'Cash for query' row: Trouble mounts for MP Mahua Moitra after businessman turns approver</a></strong></p>

<p>Moitra had accepted that she shared her online credentials with a businessman friend to allow submission of her pre-approved questions which she later intended to ask in Lok Sabha.</p>

<p>In Lok Sabha, the lawmakers are directly elected by the people in general elections. Moitra is one of the prominent leaders of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress (TMC), one of a handful of political parties that Modi-led BJP's electoral juggernaut has been unable to dislodge from power in West Bengal state.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Indian parliament cash-for-query row: What has happened so far?</strong></h2>

<p>BJP MP Nishikant Dubey had approached Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla against Moitra, accusing her of asking questions in Lok Sabha to target the Adani Group at the behest of businessman Darshan Hiranandani, in exchange for gifts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dubey further claimed that lawyer Jai Anant Dehadrai provided him with proof of the alleged bribes.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;TMC MP Mahua Moitra lawyer reportedly urged Dehadrai to withdraw his case</strong></p>

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<p>Nishikant Dubey, an elected representative of Jharkhand state's Godda constituency, had demanded that Moitra be suspended, citing a 2005 precedent when 11 Members of Parliament were disqualified over "cash for query" accusations.</p>

<p>While Moitra herself admitted that she shared her parliamentary login&nbsp;details, she asserted&nbsp;that most MPs share their login credentials with others.</p>

<p>Besides, the businessman in question — Darshan Hiranandani&nbsp;—&nbsp;admitted gifting Moitra "expensive luxury items", as well as payments for the "renovation of her official bungalow".&nbsp; He&nbsp;also accepted posting "questions directly on her behalf" using the Parliament login and password that Moitra provided him.</p>

<p>Hiranandani made these admissions under Apostille method to the consulate general of India in Dubai. Apostille is a method of certifying a document or statement provided or made in a country other than the one where it is to be used.</p>

<p>The ethics committee took a grim view of the charges against Moitra.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Mahua Moitra cash-for-query scandal: It all started with a dog</strong></h2>

<p>It all started with a custodial battle over Henry, a canine whose ownership was claimed by both Mahua Moitra and Jai Anant Dehadrai, Moitra's former personal friend. Dehadrai eventually got Henry's custody in November.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moitra has claimed&nbsp;the charges made against her in the parliament were based on a "jilted ex's lies".</p>

<p>Moitra also filed a number of police complaints against Dehadrai in the last six months for alleged criminal trespass, theft, vulgar messages and abuse, Press Trust of India reported.</p>

<p>On Wednesday (Nov &nbsp;8), BJP MP Nishikant Dubey claimed that anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal has ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) based on his complaint in the 'Cash for Query' row.</p>

<p>On October 21, Dubey&nbsp;— apart from complaining to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla&nbsp;— also&nbsp;filed a complaint with&nbsp;Lokpal against Moitra.</p>

<p>In another turn of events, Moitra had complained to Lok Sabha president Om Birla that she was being "targeted for speaking out" against Adani Group, while referring to the details of the proceedings of Lok Sabha's Ethics Committee being reported in the media.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Mahua Moitra cash-for-query row: How it ended</strong></h2>

<p>The decision of Lok Sabha Ethics Committee consists of a voluminous 500-page report. The report&nbsp;confirmed that Moitra indeed allowed an offshore businessman to access her Parliament login and ask questions on her behalf.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>This, the Ethics Committee report said, not only breached the parliamentary code of ethics but also compromised the country's national security.</p>

<p>The Lok Sabha Ethics Committee is&nbsp;currently headed by the BJP lawmaker&nbsp;Vinod Kumar Sonkar from Kaushambi constituency of Uttar Pradesh state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Its other members are&nbsp;Vishnu Datt Sharma, Sumedhanand Saraswati, Aparajita Sarangi, Dr Rajdeep Roy, Sunita Duggal, and Dr Subhash Bhamre of the BJP; Ve Vaithilingam, N Uttam Kumar Reddy, and Preneet Kaur (Congress); Balashowry Vallabbhaneni (YSR Congress); Hemant Godse (Shiv Sena); Giridhari Yadav (JD-U); P R Natarajan (CPI-M); and Kunwar Danish Ali (BSP).<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Ethics Committee of the lower house of Indian parliament, Lok Sabha, on Friday (Dec 8) disqualified opposition lawmaker Mahua Moitra following the so-called cash-for-query row.

The Ethics Committee of the lower house of Indian parliament, Lok Sabha, on Friday (Dec 8) disqualified opposition lawmaker Mahua Moitra following the so-called cash-for-query row. In a rare move of its kind, Moitra, 49, a former investment banker, was suspended from the Lok Sabha. Moitra was a Member of Parliament for Trinamool Congress (TMC) from the east Indian West Bengal state's Krishnanagar constituency. She was accused by her former personal friend and lawyer Jai Anant Dehadrai and Nishikant Dubey — a lawmaker from PM Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party — of accepting money and expensive gifts for asking a certain set of questions in Lok Sabha. Also read | 'Cash for query' row: Trouble mounts for MP Mahua Moitra after businessman turns approver Moitra had accepted that she shared her online credentials with a businessman friend to allow submission of her pre-approved questions which she later intended to ask in Lok Sabha. In Lok Sabha, the lawmakers are directly elected by the people in general elections. Moitra is one of the prominent leaders of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress (TMC), one of a handful of political parties that Modi-led BJP's electoral juggernaut has been unable to dislodge from power in West Bengal state. Indian parliament cash-for-query row: What has happened so far? BJP MP Nishikant Dubey had approached Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla against Moitra, accusing her of asking questions in Lok Sabha to target the Adani Group at the behest of businessman Darshan Hiranandani, in exchange for gifts. Dubey further claimed that lawyer Jai Anant Dehadrai provided him with proof of the alleged bribes. Also watch | TMC MP Mahua Moitra lawyer reportedly urged Dehadrai to withdraw his case × Nishikant Dubey, an elected representative of Jharkhand state's Godda constituency, had demanded that Moitra be suspended, citing a 2005 precedent when 11 Members of Parliament were disqualified over "cash for query" accusations. While Moitra herself admitted that she shared her parliamentary login details, she asserted that most MPs share their login credentials with others. Besides, the businessman in question — Darshan Hiranandani — admitted gifting Moitra "expensive luxury items", as well as payments for the "renovation of her official bungalow". He also accepted posting "questions directly on her behalf" using the Parliament login and password that Moitra provided him. Hiranandani made these admissions under Apostille method to the consulate general of India in Dubai. Apostille is a method of certifying a document or statement provided or made in a country other than the one where it is to be used. The ethics committee took a grim view of the charges against Moitra. Mahua Moitra cash-for-query scandal: It all started with a dog It all started with a custodial battle over Henry, a canine whose ownership was claimed by both Mahua Moitra and Jai Anant Dehadrai, Moitra's former personal friend. Dehadrai eventually got Henry's custody in November. Moitra has claimed the charges made against her in the parliament were based on a "jilted ex's lies". Moitra also filed a number of police complaints against Dehadrai in the last six months for alleged criminal trespass, theft, vulgar messages and abuse, Press Trust of India reported. On Wednesday (Nov 8), BJP MP Nishikant Dubey claimed that anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal has ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) based on his complaint in the 'Cash for Query' row. On October 21, Dubey — apart from complaining to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla — also filed a complaint with Lokpal against Moitra. In another turn of events, Moitra had complained to Lok Sabha president Om Birla that she was being "targeted for speaking out" against Adani Group, while referring to the details of the proceedings of Lok Sabha's Ethics Committee being reported in the media. Mahua Moitra cash-for-query row: How it ended The decision of Lok Sabha Ethics Committee consists of a voluminous 500-page report. The report confirmed that Moitra indeed allowed an offshore businessman to access her Parliament login and ask questions on her behalf. Also read | CBI to probe cash-for-query scam involving TMC MP Mahua Moitra, says BJP MP Nishikant Dubey This, the Ethics Committee report said, not only breached the parliamentary code of ethics but also compromised the country's national security. The Lok Sabha Ethics Committee is currently headed by the BJP lawmaker Vinod Kumar Sonkar from Kaushambi constituency of Uttar Pradesh state. Its other members are Vishnu Datt Sharma, Sumedhanand Saraswati, Aparajita Sarangi, Dr Rajdeep Roy, Sunita Duggal, and Dr Subhash Bhamre of the BJP; Ve Vaithilingam, N Uttam Kumar Reddy, and Preneet Kaur (Congress); Balashowry Vallabbhaneni (YSR Congress); Hemant Godse (Shiv Sena); Giridhari Yadav (JD-U); P R Natarajan (CPI-M); and Kunwar Danish Ali (BSP). (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Mahua Moitra's cash-for-query row: How TMC MP got ousted from parliament

<p>Reports of massive political violence have emerged from India’s eastern state of West Bengal, where crucial local elections are taking place ahead of the general election slated to be held next year. Zee News reported at least 14&nbsp;people dead as rural West Bengal voted for the&nbsp;three-tier panchayat elections. Among the dead were six workers of the ruling Trinamool Congress, one worker each of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Left, Congress and ISF, and another person whose political identity could not be known. Although, the BJP claimed that the death toll had reached 15, but there was no such confirmation from the state authorities till the filing of this report.</p>

<p>The state has been reeling under political violence since the elections were announced on June 8.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ruling and opposition parties trade barbs</strong></h2>

<p>West Bengal, which is ruled by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of Trinamool Congress (TMC), has had a long history of political violence taking place during election season. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which sits in opposition in the state, has long accused the TMC of harbouring political ‘goons’.</p>

<p>As reports of violence surfaced in the state on Saturday, BJP state chief Sukanta Majumdar accused a TMC candidate of murdering an independent Muslim candidate.<br />
<br />
Majumdar tweeted, “Bloodshed in West Bengal in Panchayat Election. TMC candidate killed an independent Muslim candidate in North 24, Parganas dist. TMC knows only language of violence, murder and booth capturing. CM @MamataOfficial along with @CEOWestBengal is responsible for these murders."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Reports of mass booth capturing, violence, hurling bombs and murders are being reported from West Bengal on Panchayat election day.<br />
<br />
This is deeply concerning. This is one of darkest chapter in electoral history of WB. The situation is highly volatile. <a href="https://twitter.com/CEOWestBengal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CEOWestBengal</a> must ACT. <a href="https://t.co/ZuZL88vpvf">pic.twitter.com/ZuZL88vpvf</a></p>
— Vanathi Srinivasan (@VanathiBJP) <a href="https://twitter.com/VanathiBJP/status/1677555141292204032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>BJP West Bengal leader Suvendu Adhikari said that what was happening in the state was not an election but "death."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | West Bengal panchayat election | West Bengal LoP and BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari says, "This is not an election, this is death. There is a fire of violence across the state. Central forces have not been deployed. CCTVs are not operating. This is not voting but… <a href="https://t.co/7XOAiG4V1S">pic.twitter.com/7XOAiG4V1S</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1677568846990049282?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A TMC goon is sitting inside the polling booth and directing the voters where to caste the vote…<br />
<br />
Is this free and fair election CM <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MamataOfficial</a> / <a href="https://twitter.com/CEOWestBengal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CEOWestBengal</a> ?<br />
<br />
<a href="https://t.co/HQpzI979vO">pic.twitter.com/HQpzI979vO</a></p>
— Dr. Sukanta Majumdar (@DrSukantaBJP) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSukantaBJP/status/1677530899964108800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, state minister Shashi Panja blamed the violence on the ‘incompetence’ of central forces, which are deployed by the union government, currently led by BJP, to maintain law and order, especially during elections.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India received $50 billion in new investment in 2022 - Third highest in the world</strong></p>

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<p>Panja said, “TMC workers have been murdered, two have been shot at. Those who were asking for deployment, saying that these central forces are the guardians of peace — the guardians have failed, faltered to protect the rights of citizens."</p>

<h2><strong>‘Ballots, not bullets’</strong></h2>

<p>State Governor CV Ananda Bose also condemned the violence, saying that an election day should be considered “most sacred for democracy” and that elections should take place through ballots and not bullets.</p>

<p>"I have been in the field right from the morning...People requested me and stopped my motorcade on the way. They told me about the murders happening around them, told me about the goons not allowing them to go to the polling booths...It should cause concern to all of us. This is the most sacred day for democracy...The election must be through ballots and not bullets," he was quoted as saying by local media.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-pm-justin-trudeau-says-indian-govt-wrong-about-going-soft-on-khalistan-612685"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;India blasts Canada for its soft response on terror in name of freedom of expression</strong></a></p>

<p>While political violence in the world’s largest democracy has reduced over the past two decades, it still remains rampant in West Bengal. In previous local polls held in 2018, TMC won uncontested 34 per cent of the total seats after a series of deadly political violence against opponents.</p>

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Reports of massive political violence have emerged from India’s eastern state of West Bengal, where crucial local elections are taking place ahead of the general election slated to be held next year.

Reports of massive political violence have emerged from India’s eastern state of West Bengal, where crucial local elections are taking place ahead of the general election slated to be held next year. Zee News reported at least 14 people dead as rural West Bengal voted for the three-tier panchayat elections. Among the dead were six workers of the ruling Trinamool Congress, one worker each of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Left, Congress and ISF, and another person whose political identity could not be known. Although, the BJP claimed that the death toll had reached 15, but there was no such confirmation from the state authorities till the filing of this report. The state has been reeling under political violence since the elections were announced on June 8. Ruling and opposition parties trade barbs West Bengal, which is ruled by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of Trinamool Congress (TMC), has had a long history of political violence taking place during election season. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which sits in opposition in the state, has long accused the TMC of harbouring political ‘goons’. As reports of violence surfaced in the state on Saturday, BJP state chief Sukanta Majumdar accused a TMC candidate of murdering an independent Muslim candidate. Majumdar tweeted, “Bloodshed in West Bengal in Panchayat Election. TMC candidate killed an independent Muslim candidate in North 24, Parganas dist. TMC knows only language of violence, murder and booth capturing. CM @MamataOfficial along with @CEOWestBengal is responsible for these murders." Reports of mass booth capturing, violence, hurling bombs and murders are being reported from West Bengal on Panchayat election day. This is deeply concerning. This is one of darkest chapter in electoral history of WB. The situation is highly volatile. @CEOWestBengal must ACT. pic.twitter.com/ZuZL88vpvf — Vanathi Srinivasan (@VanathiBJP) July 8, 2023 × BJP West Bengal leader Suvendu Adhikari said that what was happening in the state was not an election but "death." #WATCH | West Bengal panchayat election | West Bengal LoP and BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari says, "This is not an election, this is death. There is a fire of violence across the state. Central forces have not been deployed. CCTVs are not operating. This is not voting but… pic.twitter.com/7XOAiG4V1S — ANI (@ANI) July 8, 2023 × A TMC goon is sitting inside the polling booth and directing the voters where to caste the vote… Is this free and fair election CM @MamataOfficial / @CEOWestBengal ? pic.twitter.com/HQpzI979vO — Dr. Sukanta Majumdar (@DrSukantaBJP) July 8, 2023 × Meanwhile, state minister Shashi Panja blamed the violence on the ‘incompetence’ of central forces, which are deployed by the union government, currently led by BJP, to maintain law and order, especially during elections. Watch: India received $50 billion in new investment in 2022 - Third highest in the world × Panja said, “TMC workers have been murdered, two have been shot at. Those who were asking for deployment, saying that these central forces are the guardians of peace — the guardians have failed, faltered to protect the rights of citizens." ‘Ballots, not bullets’ State Governor CV Ananda Bose also condemned the violence, saying that an election day should be considered “most sacred for democracy” and that elections should take place through ballots and not bullets. "I have been in the field right from the morning...People requested me and stopped my motorcade on the way. They told me about the murders happening around them, told me about the goons not allowing them to go to the polling booths...It should cause concern to all of us. This is the most sacred day for democracy...The election must be through ballots and not bullets," he was quoted as saying by local media. Also read: India blasts Canada for its soft response on terror in name of freedom of expression While political violence in the world’s largest democracy has reduced over the past two decades, it still remains rampant in West Bengal. In previous local polls held in 2018, TMC won uncontested 34 per cent of the total seats after a series of deadly political violence against opponents. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India: Bullets defeat ballots? 14 killed in West Bengal on local elections day

<p>An Indian MP from the state of West Bengal has come under scrutiny for carrying a&nbsp;Louis Vuitton (LV) bag in Parliament while addressing the topic of inflation and commodity price rise. Reportedly, Mahua was caught on the camera, sliding her LV bag under the table after her party member&nbsp;Dr Kakoli Ghosh&nbsp;Dastidar stood up to speak on the topic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video instantly went viral on social media platforms as netizens wondered how a public servant could afford such an expensive $2,500 bag.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As the issue of "mehengai" is raised, somebody's Louis Vuitton bag quickly slides under the bench. <a href="https://t.co/Rtra8qsBEt">pic.twitter.com/Rtra8qsBEt</a></p>
— Ajit Datta (@ajitdatta) <a href="https://twitter.com/ajitdatta/status/1554081698237026305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>When trolled by the netizens, Mahua sought to fight fire with fire. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader posted a photo collage of her parading the&nbsp;Louis Vuitton tote bag on several occasions. She also took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi by quoting one of his statements.</p>

<p>Furthermore, when a netizen questioned Mahua by asking,&nbsp;"Where are you getting money to file petitions in Supreme Court? This is what the agencies should investigate", she retorted by tweeting,&nbsp;"Modiji sent me some of the proceeds after auctioning his ₹10 lakh suit. I bought a handbag and used the rest to pay lawyer fees."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Modiji sent me some of the proceeds after auctioning his ₹10 lakh suit. I bought a handbag and used the rest to pay lawyer fees</p>
— Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) <a href="https://twitter.com/MahuaMoitra/status/1554533562715582465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The lawyer fees that the Twitter user was referring to was in connection to a petition filed by Mahua Moitra in a court against the extension of the director of the Enforcement Directorate (ED).</p>

<p>The opposition in India has been raising the issue for the last few weeks that the Modi government is using ED indiscriminately against opposition leaders to settle political scores.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is pertinent to note that&nbsp;ED is a law enforcement agency and economic intelligence agency responsible for enforcing economic laws and fighting. It is the same agency that recently unearthed millions of dollars of black money from TMC leader Partha Chatterjee. The news had made international headlines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-arpita-mukherjee-ex-actress-from-whom-indian-sleuths-recovered-millions-in-cash-501349">Who is Arpita Mukherjee, ex-actress from whom Indian sleuths recovered millions in cash?</a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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An Indian MP from the state of West Bengal has come under scrutiny for carrying a Louis Vuitton (LV) bag in Parliament while addressing the topic of inflation and commodity price rise.

An Indian MP from the state of West Bengal has come under scrutiny for carrying a Louis Vuitton (LV) bag in Parliament while addressing the topic of inflation and commodity price rise. Reportedly, Mahua was caught on the camera, sliding her LV bag under the table after her party member Dr Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar stood up to speak on the topic. The video instantly went viral on social media platforms as netizens wondered how a public servant could afford such an expensive $2,500 bag. As the issue of "mehengai" is raised, somebody's Louis Vuitton bag quickly slides under the bench. pic.twitter.com/Rtra8qsBEt — Ajit Datta (@ajitdatta) August 1, 2022 × When trolled by the netizens, Mahua sought to fight fire with fire. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader posted a photo collage of her parading the Louis Vuitton tote bag on several occasions. She also took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi by quoting one of his statements. Furthermore, when a netizen questioned Mahua by asking, "Where are you getting money to file petitions in Supreme Court? This is what the agencies should investigate", she retorted by tweeting, "Modiji sent me some of the proceeds after auctioning his ₹10 lakh suit. I bought a handbag and used the rest to pay lawyer fees." Modiji sent me some of the proceeds after auctioning his ₹10 lakh suit. I bought a handbag and used the rest to pay lawyer fees — Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) August 2, 2022 × The lawyer fees that the Twitter user was referring to was in connection to a petition filed by Mahua Moitra in a court against the extension of the director of the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The opposition in India has been raising the issue for the last few weeks that the Modi government is using ED indiscriminately against opposition leaders to settle political scores. It is pertinent to note that ED is a law enforcement agency and economic intelligence agency responsible for enforcing economic laws and fighting. It is the same agency that recently unearthed millions of dollars of black money from TMC leader Partha Chatterjee. The news had made international headlines. Read More: Who is Arpita Mukherjee, ex-actress from whom Indian sleuths recovered millions in cash? (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian MP trolled for carrying a Louis Vuitton bag while addressing inflation & commodity price rise

<p>Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee took oath as chief minister of Bengal for the third time today.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Monday, she had met governor Jagdeep Dhankhar to stake claim to form the next government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar administered her the oath of office and secrecy at a low-key ceremony at Raj Bhawan held amid the raging COVID pandemic.</p>

<p>Banerjee took the oath in the Bengali language.</p>

<p>Apart from senior TMC leaders like Partha Chatterjee and Subrata Mukherjee, poll strategist Prashant Kishor, who played a key role in TMC's victory, and Banerjee MP nephew Abhishek Banerjee were present.</p>

<p>Banerjee has said her priority after resuming office will be to tackle the COVID-19 situation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee took oath as chief minister of Bengal for the third time today. On Monday, she had met governor Jagdeep Dhankhar to stake claim to form the next government.

Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee took oath as chief minister of Bengal for the third time today. On Monday, she had met governor Jagdeep Dhankhar to stake claim to form the next government. Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar administered her the oath of office and secrecy at a low-key ceremony at Raj Bhawan held amid the raging COVID pandemic. Banerjee took the oath in the Bengali language. Apart from senior TMC leaders like Partha Chatterjee and Subrata Mukherjee, poll strategist Prashant Kishor, who played a key role in TMC's victory, and Banerjee MP nephew Abhishek Banerjee were present. Banerjee has said her priority after resuming office will be to tackle the COVID-19 situation. (With inputs from agencies)

Mamata Banerjee takes oath as West Bengal CM for the third consecutive time

<p>Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress is set to retain power in West Bengal, all exit polls, except two, indicated after the month-long, eight-phase Assembly polls ended on Thursday.</p>

<p>Apart from the Axis My India-India Today and the Republic-CNX exit polls, which gave the BJP an edge in the battleground state, all other surveys, including the CVoter Exit Poll for Times Now/ABP News, forecast a third victory for the Trinamool, putting it ahead in the 294-member Assembly.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-indian-election-body-bans-all-victory-processions-after-poll-results-380799/amp">COVID-19: Indian election body bans all victory processions after poll results</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the survey of Axis My India-India Today, whose predictions in the 2019 Assembly elections had shown the immense BJP gains in the state, again gave the party its first-ever victory in the state polls. According to it, the BJP could end with 134-160 seats, the Trinamool with 130-156, and the Left with a mere 0-2. On the other hand, the P-MARQ survey gave the Trinamool 152-172 seats, the BJP 112-132, and the Left 10-20. The NewsX-Polstrat gave the Trinamool 152-162 and the BJP 111-125 seats.</p>

<p>The ETG Research poll gave Banerjee`s party 164-176, the BJP 105-115 and the Left 10-15 seats. CVoter gave Trinamool 152-164, the BJP 109-121 and the Left 14-25.</p>

<p>The Republic-CNX poll, however, showed a BJP victory, giving it 138-148 seats, with 128-132 for the Trinamool and 11-21 for the Left.</p>


Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress is set to retain power in West Bengal, all exit polls, except two, indicated after the month-long, eight-phase Assembly polls ended on Thursday.

Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress is set to retain power in West Bengal, all exit polls, except two, indicated after the month-long, eight-phase Assembly polls ended on Thursday. Apart from the Axis My India-India Today and the Republic-CNX exit polls, which gave the BJP an edge in the battleground state, all other surveys, including the CVoter Exit Poll for Times Now/ABP News, forecast a third victory for the Trinamool, putting it ahead in the 294-member Assembly. Also read | COVID-19: Indian election body bans all victory processions after poll results However, the survey of Axis My India-India Today, whose predictions in the 2019 Assembly elections had shown the immense BJP gains in the state, again gave the party its first-ever victory in the state polls. According to it, the BJP could end with 134-160 seats, the Trinamool with 130-156, and the Left with a mere 0-2. On the other hand, the P-MARQ survey gave the Trinamool 152-172 seats, the BJP 112-132, and the Left 10-20. The NewsX-Polstrat gave the Trinamool 152-162 and the BJP 111-125 seats. The ETG Research poll gave Banerjee`s party 164-176, the BJP 105-115 and the Left 10-15 seats. CVoter gave Trinamool 152-164, the BJP 109-121 and the Left 14-25. The Republic-CNX poll, however, showed a BJP victory, giving it 138-148 seats, with 128-132 for the Trinamool and 11-21 for the Left.

Hat-trick for Mamata in Bengal, indicate all exit polls save two

<p>Congress, on Monday, called for&nbsp;the opposition parties for a&nbsp;meeting&nbsp;to discuss the political dynamics and current situation of the country which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/just-look-up-you-will-find-cctvs-on-every-lane-sisodia-to-shah-272797">Aam Aadmi Party</a>, Bahujan Samaj Party and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trinamool-congress-supremo-mamata-banerjee-to-boycott-opposition-meet-in-delhi-273257">Trinamool Congress</a> are not likely to attend.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Discussions will be held on several issues including the amended <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-playing-political-games-over-citizenship-amendment-act-says-prime-minister-narendra-modi-273683">Citizenship Amendment Act</a> (CAA), National Population Register (NPR), National Register of Citizens (NRC), and the violence in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jnu-jamia-students-need-our-support-says-cong-leader-shashi-tharoor-273821">Jawaharlal Nehru University</a> (JNU) during the meeting scheduled to be held in Parliament annexe at 2 pm.<br />
<br />
Trinamool Congress, Bahujan Samaj Party and Aam Aadmi Party will not be taking part in the meeting.</p>

<p>Citing "betrayal" by Congress in Rajasthan, BSP chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-to-mayawati-she-must-visit-rajasthan-to-meet-kota-victimss-families-272134">Mayawati</a> on Monday said that her party will not attend the meeting of opposition parties, scheduled to take place later in the day.</p>

<p>"As is known, despite BSP supporting Congress government in Rajasthan from outside, they broke our MLAs for a second time and inducted them in their own party, which is a complete betrayal," Mayawati said in a tweet.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">3. वैसे भी बीएसपी CAA/NRC आदि के विरोध में है। केन्द्र सरकार से पुनः अपील है कि वह इस विभाजनकारी व असंवैधानिक कानून को वापिस ले। साथ ही, JNU व अन्य शिक्षण संस्थानों में भी छात्रों का राजनीतिकरण करना यह अति-दुर्भाग्यपूर्ण। 3/3</p>
— Mayawati (@Mayawati) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mayawati/status/1216558471656529920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Under such circumstances, BSP attending today's Opposition meeting called by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hemant-soren-in-delhi-to-discuss-cabinet-expansion-with-congress-leaders-273822">Congress</a> will be demoralising for people of the party in Rajasthan. So, BSP will not take part in this meeting," she added.</p>

<p>Stressing that her party opposes the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), she said, "Once again, I appeal to the Central government to take back this divisive and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-priyanka-instigated-riots-by-supporting-anti-caa-drive-home-minister-amit-shah-272323">unconstitutional law</a>."<br />
<br />
In December last year, Opposition leaders had met President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/declaration-of-amaravathi-as-capital-was-unconstitutional-ysrcp-mla-to-president-kovind-272733">Ram Nath Kovind</a> and lodged their protest over police action against students over the Citizenship Amendment Bill.</p>


Congress, on Monday, called for the opposition parties for a meeting to discuss the political dynamics and current situation of the country which Aam Aadmi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party and Trinamool Congress are not likely to attend.

Congress, on Monday, called for the opposition parties for a meeting to discuss the political dynamics and current situation of the country which Aam Aadmi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party and Trinamool Congress are not likely to attend. Discussions will be held on several issues including the amended Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), National Population Register (NPR), National Register of Citizens (NRC), and the violence in Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) during the meeting scheduled to be held in Parliament annexe at 2 pm. Trinamool Congress, Bahujan Samaj Party and Aam Aadmi Party will not be taking part in the meeting. Citing "betrayal" by Congress in Rajasthan, BSP chief Mayawati on Monday said that her party will not attend the meeting of opposition parties, scheduled to take place later in the day. "As is known, despite BSP supporting Congress government in Rajasthan from outside, they broke our MLAs for a second time and inducted them in their own party, which is a complete betrayal," Mayawati said in a tweet. 3. वैसे भी बीएसपी CAA/NRC आदि के विरोध में है। केन्द्र सरकार से पुनः अपील है कि वह इस विभाजनकारी व असंवैधानिक कानून को वापिस ले। साथ ही, JNU व अन्य शिक्षण संस्थानों में भी छात्रों का राजनीतिकरण करना यह अति-दुर्भाग्यपूर्ण। 3/3 — Mayawati (@Mayawati) January 13, 2020 × "Under such circumstances, BSP attending today's Opposition meeting called by Congress will be demoralising for people of the party in Rajasthan. So, BSP will not take part in this meeting," she added. Stressing that her party opposes the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), she said, "Once again, I appeal to the Central government to take back this divisive and unconstitutional law." In December last year, Opposition leaders had met President Ram Nath Kovind and lodged their protest over police action against students over the Citizenship Amendment Bill.

Citizenship Act Protest: AAP, BSP not to attend today's opposition meeting called by Congress

<p>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.</p>

<p>“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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>“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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>


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

<p>After the Trinamool Congress (TMC) won the Kaliaganj Assembly by-polls and is currently leading in on the rest of the two seats, Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/politics-of-arrogance-wont-work-people-have-rejected-bjp-mamata-on-by-poll-trends-265034">Mamata Banerjee</a> said politics of arrogance won`t work, people have rejected the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-oath-taking-ceremony-of-new-mlas-begins-in-assembly-264774">Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)</a>.</p>

<p>The All India Trinamool Congress party took to its twitter handle and shared a picture featuring Banerjee with mention of her reaction on the poll results."West Bengal <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-bulbul-pm-modi-holds-talks-with-mamata-banerjee-assures-help-261122">Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee</a> on TMC winning 1 and currently leading on the rest of the 2 seats in the by-elections: This is a victory of people.</p>

<p>This is a victory of development. Politics of arrogance will not work. People have rejected the BJP," All India Trinamool Congress tweeted."This is the first time we are winning in Kharagpur and Kaliaganj. Minorities, Adivasis, Rajbanshi--everyone has voted for us. Courtesy is the culture of Bengal," All India Trinamool Congress added.</p>

<p>TMC candidate Tapan Deb Singha on Thursday registered a win from Kaliaganj assembly by-election with a margin of over 2,000 votes.TMC candidates are also leading in Karimpur and Kharagpur Sadar seats as per official Election Commission (EC) trends.</p>

<p>Pithoragarh in Uttarakhand and Kaliaganj (SC), Karimpur and Kharagpur Sadar in West Bengal went to by-elections on November 25.</p>

<p>The Gazette Notification for these polls was issued on October 30 and the last date for filing nominations was November 6.</p>

<p>In West Bengal, these are the first polls after the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in which BJP had won 18 out of the 42 seats.</p>


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

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

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

<p>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;</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>He said TMC has become very focussed and alert and has rebuilt itself after the Lok Sabha election results.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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."</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>


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

<p>First-time parliamentarians Nusrat Jahan and Mimi Chakraborty have now gone viral all thanks to a video of them dancing that has reached social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As a tribute to Goddess Durga, the two women parliamentarians can be seen dancing as West bengal gets ready to celebrate the most auspicious festival of Durga Puja next month. The two can be seen draped in ethnic sarees.</p>

<p>The video was released by Captain TMT and is called "a tribute to Maa Durga and her inner strength".</p>

<p>The video also features Bengali film actress Subhashree Ganguly. It has been composed by Indraadip Das Gupta and choreographed by Baba Yadav, also features singers from Bangladesh.</p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="true" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fcaptaintmtsteel%2Fvideos%2F516551492498014%2F&amp;show_text=0&amp;width=560" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>Durga Puja will be celebrated from October 4 to October 8.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nusrat Jahan, a Trinamool Congress MP, won from West Bengal's Basirhat seat, while her party colleague Mimi Chakraborty is an MP from Jadavpur.</p>


First-time parliamentarians Nusrat Jahan and Mimi Chakraborty have now gone viral all thanks to a video of them dancing that has reached social media. As a tribute to Goddess Durga, the two women parliamentarians can be seen dancing as West bengal gets ready to celebrate the most auspicious festival of Durga Puja next month.

First-time parliamentarians Nusrat Jahan and Mimi Chakraborty have now gone viral all thanks to a video of them dancing that has reached social media. As a tribute to Goddess Durga, the two women parliamentarians can be seen dancing as West bengal gets ready to celebrate the most auspicious festival of Durga Puja next month. The two can be seen draped in ethnic sarees. The video was released by Captain TMT and is called "a tribute to Maa Durga and her inner strength". The video also features Bengali film actress Subhashree Ganguly. It has been composed by Indraadip Das Gupta and choreographed by Baba Yadav, also features singers from Bangladesh. Durga Puja will be celebrated from October 4 to October 8. Nusrat Jahan, a Trinamool Congress MP, won from West Bengal's Basirhat seat, while her party colleague Mimi Chakraborty is an MP from Jadavpur.

West Bengal MPs Nusrat Jahan, Mimi Chakraborty's dance tribute to Maa Durga is a must-watch

<p>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.</p>

<p>This holds significance here because the BJP had won just two seats in 2014 Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;<br />
<br />
<em>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)</em></p>


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

<p>Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Sovan Chatterjee on Wednesday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at party headquarters in New Delhi in presence of party leader Mukul Roy and its&nbsp; General Secretary Arun Singh.</p>

<p>He later met BJP Working President J P Nadda after joining the party.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Mukul Roy welcomed Chatterjee to the party and claimed that the Trinamool Congress would not win more than 30 seats in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections&nbsp;to be held in 2021.</p>

<p>Chatterjee, once one of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's most trusted lieutenants, slammed her for doing negative politics and hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking several bold steps.</p>

<p>Chatterjee had resigned as the state minister and Kolkata mayor in November last year following some differences with&nbsp;Mamata Banerjee.</p>

<p>The BJP won 18 of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal in the Lok Sabha polls which was only four less than the Trinamool Congress's 22.<br />
<br />
(With inputs from ANI)<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Sovan Chatterjee on Wednesday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at party headquarters in New Delhi in presence of party leader Mukul Roy and its General Secretary Arun Singh.

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Sovan Chatterjee on Wednesday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at party headquarters in New Delhi in presence of party leader Mukul Roy and its General Secretary Arun Singh. He later met BJP Working President J P Nadda after joining the party. Mukul Roy welcomed Chatterjee to the party and claimed that the Trinamool Congress would not win more than 30 seats in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections to be held in 2021. Chatterjee, once one of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's most trusted lieutenants, slammed her for doing negative politics and hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking several bold steps. Chatterjee had resigned as the state minister and Kolkata mayor in November last year following some differences with Mamata Banerjee. The BJP won 18 of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal in the Lok Sabha polls which was only four less than the Trinamool Congress's 22. (With inputs from ANI)

Trinamool Congress MLA Sovan Chatterjee joins BJP

<p>Trinamool Congress (TMC) Rajya Sabha MP Derek O'Brien appeared before the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Kolkata on Friday.</p>

<p>O'Brien was summoned by the agency in connection on July 26, 2019, to join the investigation in connection with the TMC mouthpiece 'Jago Bangla'.</p>

<p>While he was asked to appear before the agency in the first week of August, O'Brien had sought time as the Parliament was in session till August 7, 2019.</p>

<p>''Since February, I have not received any intimation from CBI. Now, during the Parliament session, I was served a notice asking me to appear before CBI on August 1. I have sent them a letter stating that I would meet after this Parliament session is over on August 7,'' he had tweeted.</p>

<p>According to sources in the agency, O'Brien, who is the publisher of the party mouthpiece which appears in Bengali was questioned on the financial transactions of the bank accounts related to it.</p>

<p>While O'Brien refused to speak to media persons on Friday while appearing before the agency, he had taken to the social media on July 27 and shared his statement.</p>

<p>His statement read, ''Jago Bangla is TMC’s official newspaper. After summoning the All India General Secretary of Trinamool a few months ago, CBI has summoned the publisher of its official newspaper. I was served notice at 2pm on July 25. Discussions on Trinamool’s motion in Rajya Sabha, opposing Government amendments to the RTI Act, started in Parliament at 2pm on July 25.''</p>

<p>He further added, ''I will comply. Let me also add, I will not be intimidated. In February, I had agreed to appear before the CBI, after the session of Parliament, but the CBI chose not to call me. This time too, I am ready to meet them.''</p>


Trinamool Congress (TMC) Rajya Sabha MP Derek O'Brien appeared before the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Kolkata on Friday. O'Brien was summoned by the agency in connection on July 26, 2019, to join the investigation in connection with the TMC mouthpiece 'Jago Bangla'.

Trinamool Congress (TMC) Rajya Sabha MP Derek O'Brien appeared before the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Kolkata on Friday. O'Brien was summoned by the agency in connection on July 26, 2019, to join the investigation in connection with the TMC mouthpiece 'Jago Bangla'. While he was asked to appear before the agency in the first week of August, O'Brien had sought time as the Parliament was in session till August 7, 2019. ''Since February, I have not received any intimation from CBI. Now, during the Parliament session, I was served a notice asking me to appear before CBI on August 1. I have sent them a letter stating that I would meet after this Parliament session is over on August 7,'' he had tweeted. According to sources in the agency, O'Brien, who is the publisher of the party mouthpiece which appears in Bengali was questioned on the financial transactions of the bank accounts related to it. While O'Brien refused to speak to media persons on Friday while appearing before the agency, he had taken to the social media on July 27 and shared his statement. His statement read, ''Jago Bangla is TMC’s official newspaper. After summoning the All India General Secretary of Trinamool a few months ago, CBI has summoned the publisher of its official newspaper. I was served notice at 2pm on July 25. Discussions on Trinamool’s motion in Rajya Sabha, opposing Government amendments to the RTI Act, started in Parliament at 2pm on July 25.'' He further added, ''I will comply. Let me also add, I will not be intimidated. In February, I had agreed to appear before the CBI, after the session of Parliament, but the CBI chose not to call me. This time too, I am ready to meet them.''

Saradha chit fund case: Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP Derek O'Brien appears before CBI

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