The sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections held on Saturday (May 25) saw a voter turnout of 61.20 per cent, the lowest among all phases so far, according to data till 11:45 pm.&nbsp;In the 2019 general elections, the corresponding phase had a turnout of 64.4 per cent.

Uttar Pradesh reported a 54.03 per cent voter turnout in the sixth phase.&nbsp;Other states' turnouts were as follows - Jharkhand at 63.76 per cent, Uttar Pradesh at 54.03 per cent, Bihar at 55.24 per cent, Jammu and Kashmir at 54.3 per cent, Haryana at 60.4 per cent, Odisha at 69.56 per cent, and Delhi at 57.67 per cent, based on the EC's voter turnout app updated at 11:45 pm.

The sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections for 58 parliamentary constituencies witnessed a cumulative voter turnout of 59.06 per cent as of 7:45 pm.&nbsp;

By that time, West Bengal recorded the highest voter turnout of 78.19 per cent, followed by Jharkhand 62.74 per cent, Odisha 60.07 per cent, Haryana 58.37 per cent, Delhi 54.48 per cent, Uttar Pradesh 54.03 per cent, Bihar 53.30 per cent, and Jammu and Kashmir 52.28 per cent.&nbsp;

The sixth phase of the general elections included eight seats in Bihar, all 10 seats in Haryana, one seat in Jammu and Kashmir, four in Jharkhand, all seven seats in Delhi, six in Odisha, 14 in Uttar Pradesh, and eight in West Bengal.&nbsp;

This phase includes some of the key seats which are, New Delhi, North-East Delhi, North-West Delhi and Chandni Chowk in the national capital, and Sultanpur and Azamgarh in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag-Rajouri, West Bengal's Tamluk, Medinipur, Haryana's Karnal, Kurukshetra, Gurgaon, Rohtak, and Odisha's Bhubaneswar, Puri and Sambalpur are some of the other key seats.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chaos-in-west-bengal-bjp-candidate-pranat-tudus-convoy-attacked-in-jhargram-725324">Chaos in West Bengal: BJP candidate Pranat Tudu's convoy attacked in Jhargram</a>

<h2>Polling marred by violence</h2>

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said that its candidate from West Bengal's Jhargram, Pranat Tudu, was attacked by miscreants in Garbeta while he was visiting the polling booth in Monglapota.

"We got information yesterday that BJP voters in Monglapota are not being allowed to vote. Due to this, we came to this area to check what was the problem. Here around 200 people attacked us with lathis, stones and some weapons. We could have been murdered if Central forces would not have been there...We did not get any protection from the local police...Didi doesn't want to impose CAA and make the country into Pakistan," said Tudu.

Several others were also wounded in the incident.

Tudu further said that because TMC was afraid of its impending defeat, it was resorting to such moves to keep the BJP supporters away from the polling booth.

"We informed the DM, but no security arrangements were made. CISF jawans have received severe injuries on the head and I have been hit on the head. The window panes of our vehicle have been damaged. We have come to file FIR and reported to EC. If TMC feels we are frightened then they are wrong. They know that they will get defeated so they are trying to keep BJP supporters away from the booth. They are doing the same in many booths," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

The sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections held on Saturday (May 25) saw a voter turnout of 61.20 per cent, the lowest among all phases so far, according to data till 11:45 pm.

The sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections held on Saturday (May 25) saw a voter turnout of 61.20 per cent, the lowest among all phases so far, according to data till 11:45 pm. In the 2019 general elections, the corresponding phase had a turnout of 64.4 per cent. Uttar Pradesh reported a 54.03 per cent voter turnout in the sixth phase. Other states' turnouts were as follows - Jharkhand at 63.76 per cent, Uttar Pradesh at 54.03 per cent, Bihar at 55.24 per cent, Jammu and Kashmir at 54.3 per cent, Haryana at 60.4 per cent, Odisha at 69.56 per cent, and Delhi at 57.67 per cent, based on the EC's voter turnout app updated at 11:45 pm. The sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections for 58 parliamentary constituencies witnessed a cumulative voter turnout of 59.06 per cent as of 7:45 pm. By that time, West Bengal recorded the highest voter turnout of 78.19 per cent, followed by Jharkhand 62.74 per cent, Odisha 60.07 per cent, Haryana 58.37 per cent, Delhi 54.48 per cent, Uttar Pradesh 54.03 per cent, Bihar 53.30 per cent, and Jammu and Kashmir 52.28 per cent. The sixth phase of the general elections included eight seats in Bihar, all 10 seats in Haryana, one seat in Jammu and Kashmir, four in Jharkhand, all seven seats in Delhi, six in Odisha, 14 in Uttar Pradesh, and eight in West Bengal. This phase includes some of the key seats which are, New Delhi, North-East Delhi, North-West Delhi and Chandni Chowk in the national capital, and Sultanpur and Azamgarh in Uttar Pradesh. Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag-Rajouri, West Bengal's Tamluk, Medinipur, Haryana's Karnal, Kurukshetra, Gurgaon, Rohtak, and Odisha's Bhubaneswar, Puri and Sambalpur are some of the other key seats. Also read: Chaos in West Bengal: BJP candidate Pranat Tudu's convoy attacked in Jhargram Polling marred by violence The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said that its candidate from West Bengal's Jhargram, Pranat Tudu, was attacked by miscreants in Garbeta while he was visiting the polling booth in Monglapota. "We got information yesterday that BJP voters in Monglapota are not being allowed to vote. Due to this, we came to this area to check what was the problem. Here around 200 people attacked us with lathis, stones and some weapons. We could have been murdered if Central forces would not have been there...We did not get any protection from the local police...Didi doesn't want to impose CAA and make the country into Pakistan," said Tudu. Several others were also wounded in the incident. Tudu further said that because TMC was afraid of its impending defeat, it was resorting to such moves to keep the BJP supporters away from the polling booth. "We informed the DM, but no security arrangements were made. CISF jawans have received severe injuries on the head and I have been hit on the head. The window panes of our vehicle have been damaged. We have come to file FIR and reported to EC. If TMC feels we are frightened then they are wrong. They know that they will get defeated so they are trying to keep BJP supporters away from the booth. They are doing the same in many booths," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Phase sixth voter turnout recorded at 61.20pc

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe cyclone warning for the northeastern region of India and coastal areas of Bangladesh. Cyclone Remal is expected to make landfall in Bengal on Sunday.

Severe Cyclone 'Remal' to hit West Bengal, Kolkata airport suspends flight

India's&nbsp;eastern state of West Bengal is bracing for a severe cyclone on Sunday (May 26), ahead of which&nbsp;major&nbsp;airlines have already suspended operations&nbsp;in the state. Cyclone Remal&nbsp;is expected&nbsp;to bring heavy rainfall and powerful winds to the coastal areas of West Bengal&nbsp;as well as&nbsp;neighbouring Bangladesh, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

<h2>Which states&nbsp;are expected&nbsp;to receive rainfall?</h2>

Six Indian states&nbsp;are expected&nbsp;to receive rainfall on Sunday. West Bengal will be the worst hit of all. Northeastern states like Tripura, Assam, Nagaland and Manipur will also receive rainfall and storms on May 26. North Coastal Odisha may also receive rainfall on May 25-26.

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The deep depression intensified into a Cyclonic Storm "Remal" over the Northwest and adjoining Northeast &amp; East-central Bay of Bengal at 5.30 pm on May 25. (Cyclone Warning for West Bengal Coast: Orange Message): IMD <a href="https://t.co/jJJfxDMXpV">pic.twitter.com/jJJfxDMXpV</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1794386306531033439?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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In West Bengal, the IMD has issued an orange alert in places like Kolkata, Howrah, Nadia, and Purba Medinipur districts. The weather department has&nbsp;further&nbsp;issued warnings of wind speeds of 80 to 90 kmph, gusting to 100 kmph, and heavy to&nbsp;very heavy&nbsp;rainfall at some places on May 26-27.

Meanwhile, a red alert has&nbsp;been issued&nbsp;for West&nbsp;Bengal's&nbsp;coastal districts of South and North 24 Parganas and Purba Medinipur.

In northeastern states, rains might continue till May 27-28.

<h2>Airlines suspend operations</h2>

Air India, IndiGo and SpiceJet announced Saturday (May 25) that&nbsp;they are suspending operations at Kolkata airport because of the IMD alert. Kolkata airport also suspended operations for 9 hours starting Sunday midnight.

Kolkata port also suspended operations for 12 hours from Sunday evening. The operations will be suspended from 6 pm on Sunday till 6 am on Monday, the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port in Kolkata declared.

<h2>Thousands evacuated</h2>

According to officials, thousands of people were evacuated and brought to shelters from the coastal regions of West Bengal on Saturday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjEmKGXq6mGAxV3n2MGHVWqCK4QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-remal-expected-to-make-landfall-in-west-bengal-imd-issues-orange-alert-725092" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-remal-expected-to-make-landfall-in-west-bengal-imd-issues-orange-alert-725092&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjEmKGXq6mGAxV3n2MGHVWqCK4QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Cyclone Remal expected to make landfall in West Bengal, IMD issues orange alert</a>

“We have already identified the low lying and vulnerable areas. Initially we plan to evacuate around 8,000-10,000 villagers from low lying areas. While some may move to the cyclone shelters by Saturday night, the rest would be brought in on Sunday,"&nbsp;said Sumit Gupta, district magistrate of South 24 Parganas.

<h2>What intensified Cyclone Remal?</h2>

According to the IMD, a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal intensified into Cyclone Remal.

This&nbsp;is the first cyclone in the region before the 2024 monsoon season.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's eastern state of West Bengal is bracing for a severe cyclone on Sunday (May 26), ahead of which major airlines have already suspended operations in the state.

India's eastern state of West Bengal is bracing for a severe cyclone on Sunday (May 26), ahead of which major airlines have already suspended operations in the state. Cyclone Remal is expected to bring heavy rainfall and powerful winds to the coastal areas of West Bengal as well as neighbouring Bangladesh, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Which states are expected to receive rainfall? Six Indian states are expected to receive rainfall on Sunday. West Bengal will be the worst hit of all. Northeastern states like Tripura, Assam, Nagaland and Manipur will also receive rainfall and storms on May 26. North Coastal Odisha may also receive rainfall on May 25-26. The deep depression intensified into a Cyclonic Storm "Remal" over the Northwest and adjoining Northeast & East-central Bay of Bengal at 5.30 pm on May 25. (Cyclone Warning for West Bengal Coast: Orange Message): IMD pic.twitter.com/jJJfxDMXpV — ANI (@ANI) May 25, 2024 × In West Bengal, the IMD has issued an orange alert in places like Kolkata, Howrah, Nadia, and Purba Medinipur districts. The weather department has further issued warnings of wind speeds of 80 to 90 kmph, gusting to 100 kmph, and heavy to very heavy rainfall at some places on May 26-27. Meanwhile, a red alert has been issued for West Bengal's coastal districts of South and North 24 Parganas and Purba Medinipur. In northeastern states, rains might continue till May 27-28. Airlines suspend operations Air India, IndiGo and SpiceJet announced Saturday (May 25) that they are suspending operations at Kolkata airport because of the IMD alert. Kolkata airport also suspended operations for 9 hours starting Sunday midnight. Kolkata port also suspended operations for 12 hours from Sunday evening. The operations will be suspended from 6 pm on Sunday till 6 am on Monday, the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port in Kolkata declared. Thousands evacuated According to officials, thousands of people were evacuated and brought to shelters from the coastal regions of West Bengal on Saturday. Also read: Cyclone Remal expected to make landfall in West Bengal, IMD issues orange alert “We have already identified the low lying and vulnerable areas. Initially we plan to evacuate around 8,000-10,000 villagers from low lying areas. While some may move to the cyclone shelters by Saturday night, the rest would be brought in on Sunday," said Sumit Gupta, district magistrate of South 24 Parganas. What intensified Cyclone Remal? According to the IMD, a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal intensified into Cyclone Remal. This is the first cyclone in the region before the 2024 monsoon season. (With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Remal: Airlines suspend ops in Kolkata, thousands evacuated; 6 Indian states on alert

India's ruling BJP&nbsp;said on Saturday (May 25) that many security personnel of its&nbsp;candidate Pranat Tudu from Jhargram in the eastern state of West Bengal&nbsp;suffered injuries during an "attack" by members of the ruling Trinamool Congress.

Tudu was on his way to Garbeta after reports that BJP agents were not being allowed into some polling booths, when the incident happened.

“All of a sudden, TMC goons who had blocked the roads started hurling bricks at my car. When my security personnel tried to intervene, they were injured. Two CISF jawans accompanying me received head injuries and had to be hospitalised,” Tudu said.

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Our Candidate Dr. Pranat Tudu has come under massive stone pelting by goons at Jhargram. Currently even Central Forces are having to retreat to save their life. ECI was repeatedly alerted about this going to be a violent phase yet they never took appropriate measures to address… <a href="https://t.co/IoaJkFJv4z">pic.twitter.com/IoaJkFJv4z</a>
— Sudhanidhi Bandyopadhyay (@SudhanidhiB) <a href="https://twitter.com/SudhanidhiB/status/1794297718912774569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/take-care-of-your-country-arvind-kejriwal-shuts-down-pakistani-politicians-voting-shoutout-725312">'Take care of your country': Arvind Kejriwal shuts down Pakistani politician's voting shoutout</a>

A video captured the event showed the BJP candidate, his security, and many media crews being chased by a mob that was throwing stones at them. When he was attacked, his security team reacted quickly and took him out of the building safely. In the event, the BJP leader's car was also vandalised.

Tudu is matched up against Sonamani Tudu of the CPI(M) and Kalipada Soren of the Trinamool Congress.

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Shocking attack on democracy in Jhargram, West Bengal! 
 
BJP candidate Pranat Tudu(ST) was brutally assaulted by TMC goons while campaigning. This is the true face of Mamata Banerjee's reign of terror, where political violence thrives unchecked. 
 
Notice how central forces are… <a href="https://t.co/cvbQRaRH2r">pic.twitter.com/cvbQRaRH2r</a>
— Satya Kumar Yadav (Modi Ka Parivar) (@satyakumar_y) <a href="https://twitter.com/satyakumar_y/status/1794311635462692989?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Resisting the BJP's accusations, the TMC claimed that a lady had been beaten and attacked by a Tudu security guard when she was in line to vote at a polling place in Garbeta.

“The BJP nominee was threatening voters. The villagers got enraged and staged a protest,” a local TMC leader said. According to reports, the crowd also vandalised vehicles belonging to several media outlets.

The Jhargram reserved parliamentary constituency, which is located in the West Bengal districts of West Medinipur and Purulia, is voting&nbsp;in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections.

India's ruling BJP said on Saturday (May 25) that many security personnel of its candidate Pranat Tudu from Jhargram in the eastern state of West Bengal suffered injuries during an "attack" by members of the ruling Trinamool Congress.

India's ruling BJP said on Saturday (May 25) that many security personnel of its candidate Pranat Tudu from Jhargram in the eastern state of West Bengal suffered injuries during an "attack" by members of the ruling Trinamool Congress. Tudu was on his way to Garbeta after reports that BJP agents were not being allowed into some polling booths, when the incident happened. “All of a sudden, TMC goons who had blocked the roads started hurling bricks at my car. When my security personnel tried to intervene, they were injured. Two CISF jawans accompanying me received head injuries and had to be hospitalised,” Tudu said. Our Candidate Dr. Pranat Tudu has come under massive stone pelting by goons at Jhargram. Currently even Central Forces are having to retreat to save their life. ECI was repeatedly alerted about this going to be a violent phase yet they never took appropriate measures to address… pic.twitter.com/IoaJkFJv4z — Sudhanidhi Bandyopadhyay (@SudhanidhiB) May 25, 2024 × Also read: 'Take care of your country': Arvind Kejriwal shuts down Pakistani politician's voting shoutout A video captured the event showed the BJP candidate, his security, and many media crews being chased by a mob that was throwing stones at them. When he was attacked, his security team reacted quickly and took him out of the building safely. In the event, the BJP leader's car was also vandalised. Tudu is matched up against Sonamani Tudu of the CPI(M) and Kalipada Soren of the Trinamool Congress. Shocking attack on democracy in Jhargram, West Bengal! BJP candidate Pranat Tudu(ST) was brutally assaulted by TMC goons while campaigning. This is the true face of Mamata Banerjee's reign of terror, where political violence thrives unchecked. Notice how central forces are… pic.twitter.com/cvbQRaRH2r — Satya Kumar Yadav (Modi Ka Parivar) (@satyakumar_y) May 25, 2024 × Resisting the BJP's accusations, the TMC claimed that a lady had been beaten and attacked by a Tudu security guard when she was in line to vote at a polling place in Garbeta. “The BJP nominee was threatening voters. The villagers got enraged and staged a protest,” a local TMC leader said. According to reports, the crowd also vandalised vehicles belonging to several media outlets. The Jhargram reserved parliamentary constituency, which is located in the West Bengal districts of West Medinipur and Purulia, is voting in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections.

Chaos in West Bengal: BJP candidate Pranat Tudu's convoy attacked in Jhargram

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for rainfall in West Bengal as a severe cyclonic storm is expected to make landfall along the adjoining coasts of the eastern state and Bangladesh on Sunday (May 26).

The cyclone, which is the very first in the Bay of Bengal this pre-monsoon season, has been named Remal. It is expected to intensify by May 25.

Extremely heavy rainfall is expected to batter the coastal districts of West Bengal and north Odisha on May 26-27.

Heavy precipitation may hit parts of northeast India on May 27-28, as per the Met Office.

The IMD said on Friday, "The depression over the central Bay of Bengal has moved towards the northeast with a speed of 20 kmph during the past three hours. It is very likely to continue to move north-eastward and intensify further into a cyclonic storm over the east-central Bay of Bengal by May 25th.

"Subsequently, it would move nearly northwards, intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by May 25 and hit the coasts of West Bengal and Bangladesh between Sagar Island and Khepupara at around 6 pm on May 26 with a wind speed of 110-120 kmph gusting to 130 kmph from the evening of May 26."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-over-70-people-hospitalised-after-gas-cylinder-explodes-in-gujarats-palanpur-724755">India: Over 70 people hospitalised after gas cylinder explodes in Gujarat's Palanpur</a>

<h2>Coast Guard deploys 9 disaster relief teams&nbsp;</h2>

Initiating preparatory measures, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) on Friday said that it was placing nine disaster relief teams at strategic locations to make sure that there were no casualties and minimal damage to property in the area.

According to the Ministry of Defence, "9 disaster relief teams have been positioned at strategic locations including Haldia, Paradip, Gopalpur, and Frazerganj, ready to provide immediate assistance in the event of an emergency."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for rainfall in West Bengal as a severe cyclonic storm is expected to make landfall along the adjoining coasts of the eastern state and Bangladesh on Sunday (May 26).

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for rainfall in West Bengal as a severe cyclonic storm is expected to make landfall along the adjoining coasts of the eastern state and Bangladesh on Sunday (May 26). The cyclone, which is the very first in the Bay of Bengal this pre-monsoon season, has been named Remal. It is expected to intensify by May 25. Extremely heavy rainfall is expected to batter the coastal districts of West Bengal and north Odisha on May 26-27. Heavy precipitation may hit parts of northeast India on May 27-28, as per the Met Office. The IMD said on Friday, "The depression over the central Bay of Bengal has moved towards the northeast with a speed of 20 kmph during the past three hours. It is very likely to continue to move north-eastward and intensify further into a cyclonic storm over the east-central Bay of Bengal by May 25th. "Subsequently, it would move nearly northwards, intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by May 25 and hit the coasts of West Bengal and Bangladesh between Sagar Island and Khepupara at around 6 pm on May 26 with a wind speed of 110-120 kmph gusting to 130 kmph from the evening of May 26." Also read: India: Over 70 people hospitalised after gas cylinder explodes in Gujarat's Palanpur Coast Guard deploys 9 disaster relief teams Initiating preparatory measures, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) on Friday said that it was placing nine disaster relief teams at strategic locations to make sure that there were no casualties and minimal damage to property in the area. According to the Ministry of Defence, "9 disaster relief teams have been positioned at strategic locations including Haldia, Paradip, Gopalpur, and Frazerganj, ready to provide immediate assistance in the event of an emergency." (With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Remal expected to make landfall in West Bengal, IMD issues orange alert

Anwarul Azim, who went to Kolkata for medical treatment, remained missing for 8 days. Awami League MP Anwarul Azim Anar has been missing since May 14 after arriving in Kolkata for medical treatment. Watch to know more.

Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar goes missing, had come to India on May 12

A Bangladeshi lawmaker was "murdered" in Kolkata a week after he went missing after visiting the east Indian megacity, the country's home minister&nbsp; claimed on Wednesday (May 22). A joint investigation has been launched into the death of the&nbsp;Bangladesh Member of Parliament (MP) Anwarul Azim.

The lawmaker had reached India on May 12 and went for a medical checkup&nbsp;the following day&nbsp;with a family friend in&nbsp;Kolkata's&nbsp;Bidhannagar.&nbsp;But nobody could trace him after May 13, following which the friend had lodged a missing complaint with the West Bengal Police.

His body was recovered from an apartment in a posh residential complex at New Town on the northern outskirts of Kolkata under mysterious circumstances.

Azim, a member of Bangladesh's ruling Awami League party, was missing since the last eight days.

In Dhaka, Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan termed the incident a&nbsp;"planned murder."

"So far, we have come to know that all the killers involved are Bangladeshis. It was a planned murder,"&nbsp;the Bangladesh Home&nbsp;Minister was quoted by news agency ANI as saying.&nbsp;

Watch: Bangladesh's ruling party lawmaker missing in India

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Local media reported that Bangladeshi police have arrested at least three persons in this connection. As per reports, Indian police are&nbsp;also&nbsp;cooperating with Bangladeshi authorities over the matter, and an investigation has&nbsp;been launched.

"We will soon inform you about the motive (of the murderers),"&nbsp;Minister Khan told the media.

<h2>MP tried calling his&nbsp;assistant</h2>

In a police complaint filed by&nbsp;MP's&nbsp;family friend Gopal Viswas at Baranagar police station in Bidhannagar,&nbsp;it was claimed&nbsp;that Anwarul Azim had tried calling his assistant on the morning of May 16.

"On the morning of May 16, he (Anwarul Azim) called his assistant, but could not connect. Later, when his PA called him back, he did not answer,"&nbsp;the complaint read.

The MP's&nbsp;daughter also tried calling her father but to no avail.&nbsp;“Still, there has been no physical presence or direct contact with him since May 13,"&nbsp;Viswas wrote in the complaint.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj6mM3mjaGGAxVnk1YBHbGZA7EQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unrest-in-kyrgyzstan-what-sparked-the-attacks-on-hostels-housing-indian-pakistani-students-722926" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/unrest-in-kyrgyzstan-what-sparked-the-attacks-on-hostels-housing-indian-pakistani-students-722926&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj6mM3mjaGGAxVnk1YBHbGZA7EQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE">Unrest in Kyrgyzstan: What sparked the attacks on hostels housing Indian, Pakistani students?</a>

"His daughter called me (Viswas), and said, I&nbsp;can't&nbsp;communicate with my father. Then I contacted all his (Anarul&nbsp;Azim's) acquaintances on the phone, but it was not possible to contact him,"&nbsp;it added.

"I&nbsp;was then requested to come to Baranagar police station on May 18 to register the complaint in the missing diary,"&nbsp;a copy of the complaint said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Bangladeshi lawmaker was "murdered" in Kolkata a week after he went missing after visiting the east Indian megacity, the country's home minister claimed on Wednesday (May 22).

A Bangladeshi lawmaker was "murdered" in Kolkata a week after he went missing after visiting the east Indian megacity, the country's home minister claimed on Wednesday (May 22). A joint investigation has been launched into the death of the Bangladesh Member of Parliament (MP) Anwarul Azim. The lawmaker had reached India on May 12 and went for a medical checkup the following day with a family friend in Kolkata's Bidhannagar. But nobody could trace him after May 13, following which the friend had lodged a missing complaint with the West Bengal Police. His body was recovered from an apartment in a posh residential complex at New Town on the northern outskirts of Kolkata under mysterious circumstances. Azim, a member of Bangladesh's ruling Awami League party, was missing since the last eight days. In Dhaka, Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan termed the incident a "planned murder." "So far, we have come to know that all the killers involved are Bangladeshis. It was a planned murder," the Bangladesh Home Minister was quoted by news agency ANI as saying. Watch: Bangladesh's ruling party lawmaker missing in India × Local media reported that Bangladeshi police have arrested at least three persons in this connection. As per reports, Indian police are also cooperating with Bangladeshi authorities over the matter, and an investigation has been launched. "We will soon inform you about the motive (of the murderers)," Minister Khan told the media. MP tried calling his assistant In a police complaint filed by MP's family friend Gopal Viswas at Baranagar police station in Bidhannagar, it was claimed that Anwarul Azim had tried calling his assistant on the morning of May 16. "On the morning of May 16, he (Anwarul Azim) called his assistant, but could not connect. Later, when his PA called him back, he did not answer," the complaint read. The MP's daughter also tried calling her father but to no avail. “Still, there has been no physical presence or direct contact with him since May 13," Viswas wrote in the complaint. Also read: Unrest in Kyrgyzstan: What sparked the attacks on hostels housing Indian, Pakistani students? "His daughter called me (Viswas), and said, I can't communicate with my father. Then I contacted all his (Anarul Azim's) acquaintances on the phone, but it was not possible to contact him," it added. "I was then requested to come to Baranagar police station on May 18 to register the complaint in the missing diary," a copy of the complaint said. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh MP who went missing in India's Kolkata was murdered, claims its home minister; probe on

The Indian state of West Bengal is the economic powerhouse of east India. Moreover, its 42 Members of Parliament can make or break political fortunes at the center. As the election fever reaches higher pitch, we bring you an economic snapshot of West Bengal.

West Bengal: The economic powerhouse of India | Decoding Bengal's economy | Race To Power

Indian General Election 2024: Decoding the economy of West Bengal

A day after announcing that TMC will extend "outside support" to the I.N.D.I.A. alliance to form government at the Centre if it wins the Lok Sabha elections, now Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee has taken a U-turn and said she is "very much part of I.N.D.I.A. alliance" at the national level. Watch in for more election updates!

India General Election 2024: TMC leader Mamata Banerjee's U-turn after 'outside support' remark

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced on Wednesday that she would provide “outside support” to INDIA, the opposition parties’ forum, to help it form the next government at the Centre. Watch in for more updates!

India General Election 2024: Mamata offers 'outside support' to I.N.D.I.A. bloc

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 12) hit out at West Bengal's ruling Trinamool Congress party stating that infiltrators were flourishing under the leadership of the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

He further vowed to the people that no one could stop the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in the state.

While addressing a rally in Barrackpur, PM Modi gave five "guarantees" to the people of West Bengal.

"I want to give five guarantees to the people of Bengal: - Nobody can give reservations based on religion. Reservations for SC, ST, and OBC will not be touched. Nobody can stop you from celebrating Ram Navami. The judgement of the Supreme Court on Ram Mandir will not be quashed. Nobody can stop the implementation of CAA," PM Modi said.

The Indian prime minister further lashed out at the opposition stating that they had projected the CAA as if it was a "villain".

"A law like CAA, which protects humanity, but opposition made it a villain. CAA is a law to give citizenship to the victims, it does not take away anyone's citizenship. But parties like Congress-TMC painted it with the colour of their lies for vote bank politics," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/smriti-irani-hits-out-at-rahul-gandhi-over-debate-challenge-to-modi-is-he-pm-candidate-720561">Smriti Irani hits out at Rahul Gandhi over debate challenge to Modi: 'Is he PM candidate?'</a>

<h2>TMC advocating 'Break in India',&nbsp;says PM Modi</h2>

PM Modi then hit out at the state government saying that TMC was raising the slogan of 'Break in India' to counter the Centre's 'Make in India' initiative.

He accused the party of destroying society, law and order, and unity in India.

"Amid BJP's efforts of development, TMC is busy in its 'own work'. What is the work of TMC and its leaders? 'Yaha mafia raj chal raha hai. Modi kahta hai har ghar jal, TMC kahti hai, har ghar bomb'. Just a few days ago, a bomb exploded, snatching away children's lives. Life has become difficult for mothers, sisters, and daughters here. Today BJP is emphasising 'Make in India', but TMC is raising the slogan of 'Break in India'. TMC is dividing the society, TMC is breaking the law, TMC is breaking the unity," PM Modi said.

He said that the goons of the party were threatening the women of Sandeshkhali referring to the infamous incident.

"Goons of TMC are threatening the women of Sandeshkhali only because the culprit's name is Shahjahan Sheikh. They are trying their best to save and protect him from legal action. Don't be afraid of TMC. You must give your full mandate to our candidate; each vote will reach me. Viksit Bengal is crucial for Viksit Bharat," the PM said.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 12) hit out at West Bengal's ruling Trinamool Congress party stating that infiltrators were flourishing under the leadership of the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 12) hit out at West Bengal's ruling Trinamool Congress party stating that infiltrators were flourishing under the leadership of the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. He further vowed to the people that no one could stop the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in the state. While addressing a rally in Barrackpur, PM Modi gave five "guarantees" to the people of West Bengal. "I want to give five guarantees to the people of Bengal: - Nobody can give reservations based on religion. Reservations for SC, ST, and OBC will not be touched. Nobody can stop you from celebrating Ram Navami. The judgement of the Supreme Court on Ram Mandir will not be quashed. Nobody can stop the implementation of CAA," PM Modi said. The Indian prime minister further lashed out at the opposition stating that they had projected the CAA as if it was a "villain". "A law like CAA, which protects humanity, but opposition made it a villain. CAA is a law to give citizenship to the victims, it does not take away anyone's citizenship. But parties like Congress-TMC painted it with the colour of their lies for vote bank politics," he said. Also read: Smriti Irani hits out at Rahul Gandhi over debate challenge to Modi: 'Is he PM candidate?' TMC advocating 'Break in India', says PM Modi PM Modi then hit out at the state government saying that TMC was raising the slogan of 'Break in India' to counter the Centre's 'Make in India' initiative. He accused the party of destroying society, law and order, and unity in India. "Amid BJP's efforts of development, TMC is busy in its 'own work'. What is the work of TMC and its leaders? 'Yaha mafia raj chal raha hai. Modi kahta hai har ghar jal, TMC kahti hai, har ghar bomb'. Just a few days ago, a bomb exploded, snatching away children's lives. Life has become difficult for mothers, sisters, and daughters here. Today BJP is emphasising 'Make in India', but TMC is raising the slogan of 'Break in India'. TMC is dividing the society, TMC is breaking the law, TMC is breaking the unity," PM Modi said. He said that the goons of the party were threatening the women of Sandeshkhali referring to the infamous incident. "Goons of TMC are threatening the women of Sandeshkhali only because the culprit's name is Shahjahan Sheikh. They are trying their best to save and protect him from legal action. Don't be afraid of TMC. You must give your full mandate to our candidate; each vote will reach me. Viksit Bengal is crucial for Viksit Bharat," the PM said. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi lists out 5 guarantees to Bengal, says ‘no one can stop CAA implementation’

A Kolkata boy was brutally stabbed to death by his flatmate after the 18-year-old victim refused to share his water bottle with the accused. The incident was reported Monday (May 6) when the accused, 30-year-old Akash Hari, was having a party and consuming drugs on open terrace with his friends.

The incident took place at the KMC Sweeper Quarters on the UC Banerjee Road in the Phoolbagan area.

Police said the duo had developed animosity over a period of time over who gets to sleep on the open terrace as the city battles with intense heatwave. As per a report by the Times of India, the victim, Nitish Rabidas, had come to his elder sister’s house in Kolkata and had taken up a job here.

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Additional CP (I) Murlidhar Sharma said Hari carried sharp objects like knives and cutters to the terrace and then committed the murder.

Police said they have arrested the accused and recovered the weapon used in the murder.

“Just after midnight, there was a fight between Rabidas and Hari over who will sleep in the open rooftop. Hari was angry when he did not get to sleep on the terrace. He was also upset when he did not get the water bottle,” DC (Eastern Suburban) Gaurav Lal was quoted as saying by TOI.

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After midnight, Hari went to the terrace and threw Das’s bottle on the terrace, which snapped him out of the sleep.

“Hari suddenly threw away the water bottle of Rabidas to the ground. The victim was woken up and during the quarrel that ensued Hari stabbed him with a cannabis-chopping knife. The victim was declared brought dead at the NRS Hospital,” said DC Lal.

The victim’s body was later handed over to his family after postmortem.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Kolkata boy was brutally stabbed to death by his flatmate after the 18-year-old victim refused to share his water bottle with the accused. The incident was reported Monday (May 6) when the accused, 30-year-old Akash Hari, was having a party and consuming drugs on open terrace with his friends.

A Kolkata boy was brutally stabbed to death by his flatmate after the 18-year-old victim refused to share his water bottle with the accused. The incident was reported Monday (May 6) when the accused, 30-year-old Akash Hari, was having a party and consuming drugs on open terrace with his friends. The incident took place at the KMC Sweeper Quarters on the UC Banerjee Road in the Phoolbagan area. Police said the duo had developed animosity over a period of time over who gets to sleep on the open terrace as the city battles with intense heatwave. As per a report by the Times of India, the victim, Nitish Rabidas, had come to his elder sister’s house in Kolkata and had taken up a job here. Also read: Chinese EV maker Leapmotor plans entry into India in collaboration with Stellantis Additional CP (I) Murlidhar Sharma said Hari carried sharp objects like knives and cutters to the terrace and then committed the murder. Police said they have arrested the accused and recovered the weapon used in the murder. “Just after midnight, there was a fight between Rabidas and Hari over who will sleep in the open rooftop. Hari was angry when he did not get to sleep on the terrace. He was also upset when he did not get the water bottle,” DC (Eastern Suburban) Gaurav Lal was quoted as saying by TOI. Also read: India terms Nijjar investigation results Canada’s internal matter; Ottawa notifies Delhi of arrests After midnight, Hari went to the terrace and threw Das’s bottle on the terrace, which snapped him out of the sleep. “Hari suddenly threw away the water bottle of Rabidas to the ground. The victim was woken up and during the quarrel that ensued Hari stabbed him with a cannabis-chopping knife. The victim was declared brought dead at the NRS Hospital,” said DC Lal. The victim’s body was later handed over to his family after postmortem. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Flatmate stabs Kolkata youth to death after he refused to share water bottle

The third phase of Lok Sabha elections, which was held in 93 constituencies on Tuesday (May 7), witnessed a voter turnout of approximately 60.97 per cent, as per the data released by the Election Commission of India.&nbsp;

The northeastern state of&nbsp;Assam&nbsp;recorded the maximum voter turnout of&nbsp;75.01 per cent,&nbsp;whereas, Maharashtra recorded the lowest which was at 53.95 per cent.

Voting percentages for other states that went to polls on May 7:

- West Bengal at 73.93 per cent 
- Bihar at 56.55 per cent 
- Chhattisgarh at 66.94 per cent 
- Goa at 74.00 per cent 
- Gujarat at 56.21 per cent 
- Karnataka at 66.80 per cent 
- Madhya Pradesh at 62.79 per cent 
- Uttar Pradesh at 57.04 per cent

Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu saw a voter turnout of 65.23&nbsp;per cent, according to the latest data.

Leaders from several political parties have urged the citizens of India to exercise their right to vote and participate in the polls in large numbers.

Over 1300 candidates, including around 120 women, were in the fray in this phase of polls. A total of 17.24 crore voters were eligible to cast their votes in the third phase at around 1.85 lakh polling stations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-pm-modi-casts-his-votes-equates-voting-to-daan-718742">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: PM Modi casts his vote, equates voting to 'daan'</a>

<h2>PM Modi casts vote</h2>

Earlier, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi cast his vote in Gujarat's Ahmedabad. He was welcomed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah when he arrived at the polling booth.

The prominent names in Tuesday's poll battle are Union Home Minister Amit Shah, former Madhya Pradesh chief ministers Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Digvijaya Singh, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Samajwadi Party leader Dimple Yadav, and NCP (SP) leader Supriya Sule, among others.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi casts his vote for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2024</a> at Nishan Higher Secondary School in Ahmedabad, Gujarat <a href="https://t.co/i057pygTkJ">pic.twitter.com/i057pygTkJ</a>
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&nbsp;

In the year 2019, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) registered victory in 72 out of 93 constituencies that went into polls today.

The Lok Sabha polls in India are being held in seven phases from April 19 to June 1. The results of the elections will be announced on June 4.

(With inputs from agencies)

The third phase of Lok Sabha elections, which was held in 93 constituencies on Tuesday (May 7), witnessed a voter turnout of approximately 60.97 per cent, as per the data released by the Election Commission of India.

The third phase of Lok Sabha elections, which was held in 93 constituencies on Tuesday (May 7), witnessed a voter turnout of approximately 60.97 per cent, as per the data released by the Election Commission of India. The northeastern state of Assam recorded the maximum voter turnout of 75.01 per cent, whereas, Maharashtra recorded the lowest which was at 53.95 per cent. Voting percentages for other states that went to polls on May 7: - West Bengal at 73.93 per cent - Bihar at 56.55 per cent - Chhattisgarh at 66.94 per cent - Goa at 74.00 per cent - Gujarat at 56.21 per cent - Karnataka at 66.80 per cent - Madhya Pradesh at 62.79 per cent - Uttar Pradesh at 57.04 per cent Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu saw a voter turnout of 65.23 per cent, according to the latest data. Leaders from several political parties have urged the citizens of India to exercise their right to vote and participate in the polls in large numbers. Over 1300 candidates, including around 120 women, were in the fray in this phase of polls. A total of 17.24 crore voters were eligible to cast their votes in the third phase at around 1.85 lakh polling stations. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: PM Modi casts his vote, equates voting to 'daan' PM Modi casts vote Earlier, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi cast his vote in Gujarat's Ahmedabad. He was welcomed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah when he arrived at the polling booth. The prominent names in Tuesday's poll battle are Union Home Minister Amit Shah, former Madhya Pradesh chief ministers Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Digvijaya Singh, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Samajwadi Party leader Dimple Yadav, and NCP (SP) leader Supriya Sule, among others. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi casts his vote for #LokSabhaElections2024 at Nishan Higher Secondary School in Ahmedabad, Gujarat pic.twitter.com/i057pygTkJ — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2024 × In the year 2019, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) registered victory in 72 out of 93 constituencies that went into polls today. The Lok Sabha polls in India are being held in seven phases from April 19 to June 1. The results of the elections will be announced on June 4. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls 3rd phase: Assam leads with maximum voter turnout, Maharashtra records lowest

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose on Sunday (May 5) reacting to the molestation allegations levelled against him stated that no inquiry could be conducted against a Governor during their term in office.

He took to his official X account and in a detailed post said, "No criminal proceedings whatsoever shall be instituted or continued against the President, or the Governor of a State, in any court during his term of office and no process for the arrest or imprisonment of the President, or the Governor of a State, shall issue from any court during his term of office."

"It is clear that the State machinery cannot set in motion any sort of criminal proceedings, whatsoever, against the Governor," he said.

He then urged the Raj Bhavan staff to ignore any sort of communication with the police regarding the matter and refrain from giving any statement.

He said that Article 361(2) and (3) of the Constitution of India ensures protection for the President, Governors and Rajpramukhs.&nbsp;

"Since the Governor has been granted constitutional immunity from any criminal proceedings being instituted or continued against him, it logically follows that the police cannot investigate/inquire into the matter in any manner whatsoever," Bose said.

"To say that the inquiry/investigation of the police could continue even during the tenure of the Governor though no court can take cognisance of the final report, would be in derogation of the objective and essence of Article 361 of the Constitution of India. Thus, given the immunity enjoyed by the Governor, the police are constitutionally barred from carrying out any kind of preliminary inquiry, registering a First Information Report," he added.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-raj-bhawan-staff-members-summoned-in-complaint-against-bengal-governor-fail-to-appear-718076">Also read:&nbsp;India: Raj Bhawan staff members summoned in complaint against Bengal Governor</a>

<h2>Sexual allegations against Bose</h2>

One of the women employees at the Raj Bhavan on Thursday (May 2) alleged that she was sexually harassed by the West Bengal governor.

West Bengal Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya stated that a woman had lodged a complaint against the governor accusing him of molestation ahead of PM Modi's visit to the state.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi is arriving in Bengal. His stay has been arranged at the Raj Bhavan. Before this, a woman has gone to the police station to file a complaint against the Governor accusing him of molestation," Bhattacharya said.

"What kind of incident is this, when the Governor says that he will create a 'peace room' and listen to everyone's problems, but here the same Governor is insulting women," she added.

Responding to the allegations, the West Bengal Governor released a statement saying that he will not be oppressed by "engineered narratives" and the "truth shall triumph" after TMC leaders said that a woman employed at Raj Bhavan accused Bose of molestation.

"Truth shall triumph. I refuse to be cowed down by engineered narratives. If anybody wants some election benefits by maligning me, God bless them. But they cannot stop my fight against corruption and violence in Bengal," the Governor said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose on Sunday (May 5) reacting to the molestation allegations levelled against him stated that no inquiry could be conducted against a Governor during their term in office.

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose on Sunday (May 5) reacting to the molestation allegations levelled against him stated that no inquiry could be conducted against a Governor during their term in office. He took to his official X account and in a detailed post said, "No criminal proceedings whatsoever shall be instituted or continued against the President, or the Governor of a State, in any court during his term of office and no process for the arrest or imprisonment of the President, or the Governor of a State, shall issue from any court during his term of office." "It is clear that the State machinery cannot set in motion any sort of criminal proceedings, whatsoever, against the Governor," he said. He then urged the Raj Bhavan staff to ignore any sort of communication with the police regarding the matter and refrain from giving any statement. He said that Article 361(2) and (3) of the Constitution of India ensures protection for the President, Governors and Rajpramukhs. "Since the Governor has been granted constitutional immunity from any criminal proceedings being instituted or continued against him, it logically follows that the police cannot investigate/inquire into the matter in any manner whatsoever," Bose said. "To say that the inquiry/investigation of the police could continue even during the tenure of the Governor though no court can take cognisance of the final report, would be in derogation of the objective and essence of Article 361 of the Constitution of India. Thus, given the immunity enjoyed by the Governor, the police are constitutionally barred from carrying out any kind of preliminary inquiry, registering a First Information Report," he added. pic.twitter.com/m7o4DAbVJa — Raj Bhavan Kolkata (@BengalGovernor) May 5, 2024 × Also read: India: Raj Bhawan staff members summoned in complaint against Bengal Governor Sexual allegations against Bose One of the women employees at the Raj Bhavan on Thursday (May 2) alleged that she was sexually harassed by the West Bengal governor. West Bengal Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya stated that a woman had lodged a complaint against the governor accusing him of molestation ahead of PM Modi's visit to the state. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi is arriving in Bengal. His stay has been arranged at the Raj Bhavan. Before this, a woman has gone to the police station to file a complaint against the Governor accusing him of molestation," Bhattacharya said. "What kind of incident is this, when the Governor says that he will create a 'peace room' and listen to everyone's problems, but here the same Governor is insulting women," she added. Responding to the allegations, the West Bengal Governor released a statement saying that he will not be oppressed by "engineered narratives" and the "truth shall triumph" after TMC leaders said that a woman employed at Raj Bhavan accused Bose of molestation. "Truth shall triumph. I refuse to be cowed down by engineered narratives. If anybody wants some election benefits by maligning me, God bless them. But they cannot stop my fight against corruption and violence in Bengal," the Governor said. (With inputs from agencies)

West Bengal Governor Ananda Bose reacts to molestation claims; says 'no inquiry can be conducted'

The Kolkata Police's Special Enquiry Team (SET)&nbsp;on Saturday (May 4) summoned three Raj Bhawan personnel in connection with the molestation allegations against West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose.

However, none of the personnel showed up for interrogation, reported news agency ANI citing sources.

West Bengal Police have directed the SET authorities to investigate the molestation allegations levelled by a woman employee at Raj Bhawan against Governor CV Ananda Bose.

The team has also asked Raj Bhawan to share the CCTV footage.&nbsp;

However, they have&nbsp;neither received the requested CCTV footage nor did any of the personnel turn up for questioning.

According to the sources&nbsp;the police will once again issue&nbsp;summons, asking them to appear on May 6.

"Hare Street PS had requested 3 Raj Bhawan personnel to come over to the PS this afternoon, to facilitate the enquiry (4th was from KP - who attended). CCTV footage was also asked for. None from Raj Bhawan turned up for enquiry. CCTV footage is yet to be received. We will request again on Monday (6 May)--no other enquiry plan till then," police sources said.

Earlier, Bose had issued an order barring the police and Minister of State for Finance, Chandrima Bhattacharya from entering the Raj Bhavan following the accusations.

The directive said that the entry of West Bengal Minister Bhattacharya into the Raj Bhavan premises of Kolkata, Darjeeling and Barrackpore is banned for "defamation and anti-constitutional media statements".

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"For defamation and anti-constitutional media statements against Governor, a junior gubernatorial appointee Chandrima Bhattacharya, Minister of State (Independent Charge) Department of Finance has been banned entry into the Raj Bhavan premises of Kolkata, Darjeeling and Barrackpore," read the order.

<h2>Sexual allegations against Bose</h2>

One of the women employees at the Raj Bhavan on Thursday (May 2) alleged that she was sexually harassed by the West Bengal Governor.

West Bengal Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya stated that a woman had lodged a complaint against the Governor accusing him of molestation ahead of PM Modi's visit to the state.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi is arriving in Bengal. His stay has been arranged at the Raj Bhavan. Before this, a woman has gone to the police station to file a complaint against the Governor accusing him of molestation," Bhattacharya said.

"What kind of incident is this, when the Governor says that he will create a 'peace room' and listen to everyone's problems, but here the same Governor is insulting women," she added.

Responding to the allegations, the West Bengal Governor released a statement saying that he will not be oppressed by "engineered narratives" and the "truth shall triumph" after TMC leaders said that a woman employed at Raj Bhavan accused Bose of molestation.

"Truth shall triumph. I refuse to be cowed down by engineered narratives. If anybody wants some election benefits by maligning me, God bless them. But they cannot stop my fight against corruption and violence in Bengal," the Governor said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Kolkata Police's Special Enquiry Team (SET) on Saturday (May 4) summoned three Raj Bhawan personnel in connection with the molestation allegations against West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose.

The Kolkata Police's Special Enquiry Team (SET) on Saturday (May 4) summoned three Raj Bhawan personnel in connection with the molestation allegations against West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose. However, none of the personnel showed up for interrogation, reported news agency ANI citing sources. West Bengal Police have directed the SET authorities to investigate the molestation allegations levelled by a woman employee at Raj Bhawan against Governor CV Ananda Bose. The team has also asked Raj Bhawan to share the CCTV footage. However, they have neither received the requested CCTV footage nor did any of the personnel turn up for questioning. According to the sources the police will once again issue summons, asking them to appear on May 6. "Hare Street PS had requested 3 Raj Bhawan personnel to come over to the PS this afternoon, to facilitate the enquiry (4th was from KP - who attended). CCTV footage was also asked for. None from Raj Bhawan turned up for enquiry. CCTV footage is yet to be received. We will request again on Monday (6 May)--no other enquiry plan till then," police sources said. Earlier, Bose had issued an order barring the police and Minister of State for Finance, Chandrima Bhattacharya from entering the Raj Bhavan following the accusations. The directive said that the entry of West Bengal Minister Bhattacharya into the Raj Bhavan premises of Kolkata, Darjeeling and Barrackpore is banned for "defamation and anti-constitutional media statements". Also read: JD(S) leader HD Revanna taken into custody in kidnapping case as court denies interim protection "For defamation and anti-constitutional media statements against Governor, a junior gubernatorial appointee Chandrima Bhattacharya, Minister of State (Independent Charge) Department of Finance has been banned entry into the Raj Bhavan premises of Kolkata, Darjeeling and Barrackpore," read the order. Sexual allegations against Bose One of the women employees at the Raj Bhavan on Thursday (May 2) alleged that she was sexually harassed by the West Bengal Governor. West Bengal Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya stated that a woman had lodged a complaint against the Governor accusing him of molestation ahead of PM Modi's visit to the state. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi is arriving in Bengal. His stay has been arranged at the Raj Bhavan. Before this, a woman has gone to the police station to file a complaint against the Governor accusing him of molestation," Bhattacharya said. "What kind of incident is this, when the Governor says that he will create a 'peace room' and listen to everyone's problems, but here the same Governor is insulting women," she added. Responding to the allegations, the West Bengal Governor released a statement saying that he will not be oppressed by "engineered narratives" and the "truth shall triumph" after TMC leaders said that a woman employed at Raj Bhavan accused Bose of molestation. "Truth shall triumph. I refuse to be cowed down by engineered narratives. If anybody wants some election benefits by maligning me, God bless them. But they cannot stop my fight against corruption and violence in Bengal," the Governor said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Raj Bhawan staff members summoned in complaint against Bengal Governor Ananda Bose

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose issued an order barring the police and Minister of State for Finance, Chandrima Bhattacharya from entering the Raj Bhavan after the Governor was allegedly accused of sexual harassment.

The directive said that the entry of West Bengal Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya into the Raj Bhavan premises of Kolkata, Darjeeling and Barrackpore is banned for "defamation and anti-constitutional media statements".

"For defamation and anti-constitutional media statements against Governor, a junior gubernatorial appointee Chandrima Bhattacharya, Minister of State (Independent Charge) Department of Finance has been banned entry into the Raj Bhavan premises of Kolkata, Darjeeling and Barrackpore," said the order.

It further stated that the Governor will not take part in any event that is attended by the Minister.

"The Attorney General of India has been contacted for further advice on further legal steps against the Minister," the order added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/dont-be-scared-dont-run-away-pm-modi-to-rahul-gandhi-over-rae-bareli-nomination-717632">Don't be scared, don't run: PM Modi to Rahul Gandhi on Rae Bareli nomination</a>

<h2>Sexual allegations against Bose</h2>

One of the women employees at the Raj Bhavan on Thursday (May 2) alleged that she was sexually harassed by West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose.&nbsp;

She also filed a complaint against Bose at the Hare Street police station in Kolkata.

West Bengal Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya stated that a woman had lodged a complaint against the Governor accusing him of molestation ahead of PM Modi's visit to the state.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi is arriving in Bengal. His stay has been arranged at the Raj Bhavan. Before this, a woman has gone to the police station to file a complaint against the Governor accusing him of molestation," Bhattacharya said.

"What kind of incident is this, when the Governor says that he will create a 'peace room' and listen to everyone's problems, but here the same Governor is insulting women," she added.

Responding to the allegations, the West Bengal Governor released a statement saying that he will not be oppressed by "engineered narratives" and the "truth shall triumph" after TMC leaders said that a woman employed at Raj Bhavan accused Bose of molestation.

"Truth shall triumph. I refuse to be cowed down by engineered narratives. If anybody wants some election benefits by maligning me, God bless them. But they cannot stop my fight against corruption and violence in Bengal," the Governor said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose issued an order barring the police and Minister of State for Finance, Chandrima Bhattacharya from entering the Raj Bhavan after the Governor was allegedly accused of sexual harassment.

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose issued an order barring the police and Minister of State for Finance, Chandrima Bhattacharya from entering the Raj Bhavan after the Governor was allegedly accused of sexual harassment. The directive said that the entry of West Bengal Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya into the Raj Bhavan premises of Kolkata, Darjeeling and Barrackpore is banned for "defamation and anti-constitutional media statements". "For defamation and anti-constitutional media statements against Governor, a junior gubernatorial appointee Chandrima Bhattacharya, Minister of State (Independent Charge) Department of Finance has been banned entry into the Raj Bhavan premises of Kolkata, Darjeeling and Barrackpore," said the order. It further stated that the Governor will not take part in any event that is attended by the Minister. "The Attorney General of India has been contacted for further advice on further legal steps against the Minister," the order added. Also read: Don't be scared, don't run: PM Modi to Rahul Gandhi on Rae Bareli nomination Sexual allegations against Bose One of the women employees at the Raj Bhavan on Thursday (May 2) alleged that she was sexually harassed by West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose. She also filed a complaint against Bose at the Hare Street police station in Kolkata. West Bengal Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya stated that a woman had lodged a complaint against the Governor accusing him of molestation ahead of PM Modi's visit to the state. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi is arriving in Bengal. His stay has been arranged at the Raj Bhavan. Before this, a woman has gone to the police station to file a complaint against the Governor accusing him of molestation," Bhattacharya said. "What kind of incident is this, when the Governor says that he will create a 'peace room' and listen to everyone's problems, but here the same Governor is insulting women," she added. Responding to the allegations, the West Bengal Governor released a statement saying that he will not be oppressed by "engineered narratives" and the "truth shall triumph" after TMC leaders said that a woman employed at Raj Bhavan accused Bose of molestation. "Truth shall triumph. I refuse to be cowed down by engineered narratives. If anybody wants some election benefits by maligning me, God bless them. But they cannot stop my fight against corruption and violence in Bengal," the Governor said. (With inputs from agencies)

West Bengal Governor bars police from entering Raj Bhavan following sexual harassment allegations

The Trinamool Congress government and the governor CV Anand Bose are in a standoff over a sexual harassment case that the TMC has flagged against the governor. Bose has denied the allegations saying 'truth will Triumph'.

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose denies sexual harassment allegations

The Supreme Court of India on Monday&nbsp;questioned the West Bengal state government as to why it has come in as a petitioner before it for "protecting the interest" of some private individuals in the Sandeshkhali sex abuse and land grabbing case.&nbsp;It adjourned hearing on a special leave petition moved by the east Indian state's government. 
 
The apex court was hearing the state government's plea challenging the Calcutta High Court's April 10 order which directed a CBI investigation into allegations of crimes against women and land grabbing in Sandeshkhali.&nbsp; 
 
“Why should the state come in as a petitioner for protecting the interest of some private individuals?,” a bench of Justices B R Gavai and Sandeep Mehta asked.&nbsp; 
 
The counsel appearing for the state said it was aggrieved by some comments made in the high court order. 
 
The bench of justices BR Gavai and Sandeep Mehta adjourned the matter till July. The plea was made by the West Bengal government's counsel and senior advocate AM Singhvi.&nbsp;

The court further recorded the statement of West Bengal government counsel that the pending status of the petition will not be exploited or used for any other purposes.

The state government had moved the apex court stating that the Calcutta High Court erroneously ruled an order directing the CBI to probe and submit a report concerning the accusations made by the residents of Sandeshkhali.

The high court had directed a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the allegations of land grabbing and sexual assault in Sandeshkhali.

The government pleaded in the top court that the high court order transgressed the culmination of probes into 43 FIRs, all leading to charge sheets.

It said that the sidelining of the state government's actions in favour of political voices risks bias in the investigation.

The government further said that the High Court decision had cast baseless imputations on the probes carried out by the State Police without taking into account the correct tangible matrix and the measures essayed by the petitioner state in diligently investigating all the FIRs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nsg-commandoes-deployed-in-bengals-sandeshkhali-after-cbi-seizes-foreign-made-arms-715418">Also read:&nbsp;NSG commandoes deployed in Bengal’s Sandeshkhali after CBI seizes foreign-made arms</a>

<h2>TMC claims ammunition seized by CBI in Sandeshkhali could have been planted</h2>

Earlier this week, reacting to the cache of ammunition seized by CBI from West Bengal's Sandeshkhali, the ruling Trinamool Congress raised suspicions that the bombs could have been planted by Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or National Security Guard (NSG) commandos.&nbsp;

This came after CBI conducted raids on locations tied to individuals suspected in the January 5 assault on an Enforcement Directorate team in which several officials were injured in Sandeshkhali when they set out to raid TMC leader Shah Jahan Sheikh's residence.&nbsp;

The party in a letter to the Election Commission of India on Friday (Apr 26) evening wrote, "It is astonishing to notice that media personnel were already present during such the raid even before the state administration arrived at the spot."

"At such point in time, it was already nationwide news that weapons had been recovered during the raid. There is no way of knowing with certainty, as to whether these weapons were indeed recovered during the search and seizure procedure or whether they were surreptitiously planted by the CBI/NSG," the letter further read.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court of India on Monday questioned the West Bengal state government as to why it has come in as a petitioner before it for "protecting the interest" of some private individuals in the Sandeshkhali sex abuse and land grabbing case.

The Supreme Court of India on Monday questioned the West Bengal state government as to why it has come in as a petitioner before it for "protecting the interest" of some private individuals in the Sandeshkhali sex abuse and land grabbing case. It adjourned hearing on a special leave petition moved by the east Indian state's government. The apex court was hearing the state government's plea challenging the Calcutta High Court's April 10 order which directed a CBI investigation into allegations of crimes against women and land grabbing in Sandeshkhali. “Why should the state come in as a petitioner for protecting the interest of some private individuals?,” a bench of Justices B R Gavai and Sandeep Mehta asked. The counsel appearing for the state said it was aggrieved by some comments made in the high court order. The bench of justices BR Gavai and Sandeep Mehta adjourned the matter till July. The plea was made by the West Bengal government's counsel and senior advocate AM Singhvi. The court further recorded the statement of West Bengal government counsel that the pending status of the petition will not be exploited or used for any other purposes. The state government had moved the apex court stating that the Calcutta High Court erroneously ruled an order directing the CBI to probe and submit a report concerning the accusations made by the residents of Sandeshkhali. The high court had directed a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the allegations of land grabbing and sexual assault in Sandeshkhali. The government pleaded in the top court that the high court order transgressed the culmination of probes into 43 FIRs, all leading to charge sheets. It said that the sidelining of the state government's actions in favour of political voices risks bias in the investigation. The government further said that the High Court decision had cast baseless imputations on the probes carried out by the State Police without taking into account the correct tangible matrix and the measures essayed by the petitioner state in diligently investigating all the FIRs. Also read: NSG commandoes deployed in Bengal’s Sandeshkhali after CBI seizes foreign-made arms TMC claims ammunition seized by CBI in Sandeshkhali could have been planted Earlier this week, reacting to the cache of ammunition seized by CBI from West Bengal's Sandeshkhali, the ruling Trinamool Congress raised suspicions that the bombs could have been planted by Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or National Security Guard (NSG) commandos. This came after CBI conducted raids on locations tied to individuals suspected in the January 5 assault on an Enforcement Directorate team in which several officials were injured in Sandeshkhali when they set out to raid TMC leader Shah Jahan Sheikh's residence. The party in a letter to the Election Commission of India on Friday (Apr 26) evening wrote, "It is astonishing to notice that media personnel were already present during such the raid even before the state administration arrived at the spot." "At such point in time, it was already nationwide news that weapons had been recovered during the raid. There is no way of knowing with certainty, as to whether these weapons were indeed recovered during the search and seizure procedure or whether they were surreptitiously planted by the CBI/NSG," the letter further read. (With inputs from agencies)

Sandeshkhali row: SC on West Bengal plea on CBI probe - why should state protect individual’s interest?

India's MeT department has issued heatwave warnings for several states. The IMD has issued a ‘red alert’ for Odisha and West Bengal, an ‘orange alert’ for Bihar and Jharkhand, and a ‘yellow alert’ for eastern Uttar Pradesh and parts of Kerala.

India: Heatwave warnings issued for several states

India’s&nbsp;federal investigative agency&nbsp;Central&nbsp;Bureau of Investigation (CBI)&nbsp;on&nbsp;Friday (Apr 26) recovered arms, including foreign-made pistols, from West&nbsp;Bengal’s&nbsp;Sandeshkhali. The federal agency had gone there to raid places in connection with the attack on the officers of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) by a mob led by a leader of the local ruling TMC party, Sheikh Shahjahan. As the large cache of weapons&nbsp;was discovered, CBI called in a team of National Security Guard (NSG) commandos to take control of the area.

Below are the weapons recovered from the area:

(i) 03 foreign-made Revolvers.&nbsp; 
(ii) 01 Indian Revolver.&nbsp; 
(iii) 01 Colt official Police Revolver.&nbsp; 
(iv) &nbsp;01 foreign-made Pistol.&nbsp; 
(v) 01 country made Pistol.&nbsp; 
(vi) 09 mm bullets- 120 nos. 
&nbsp;(vii) .45 calibre cartridges – 50 nos.&nbsp; 
(viii) 9 mm calibre cartridges-120 nos.&nbsp; 
(ix) .380 cartridges -50 nos.&nbsp; 
(x) .32 cartridges- 08 nos.&nbsp;

The ED team was attacked on January 5 as they went to raid the premises of Shajahan Sheikh in connection with a ration scam.

It must be noted&nbsp;that the West Bengal High Court had directed the CBI to take up the probe into allegations of land grabbing and sexual assault in Sandeshkhali. The CBI had also filed three FIRs about the case.

<h2>West Bengal government reaches Supreme&nbsp;Court</h2>

Meanwhile, the West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, reached the Supreme Court Friday against the&nbsp;HC’s&nbsp;order.

In Sandeshkhali, women held protests against the ruling TMC and Shahjahan, accusing him and his aides of committing atrocities and seizing their lands illegally.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiL5rmwieCFAxUVS2cHHdlxB9QQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-live-voting-phase-1-up-rajasthan-bihar-mp-maharashtra-tamil-nadu-nagaland-sikkim-mizoram-712699" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-live-voting-phase-1-up-rajasthan-bihar-mp-maharashtra-tamil-nadu-nagaland-sikkim-mizoram-712699&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiL5rmwieCFAxUVS2cHHdlxB9QQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Lok Sabha Election 2024 Highlights: `First phase, great response!` PM Modi thanks voters</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also targeted the&nbsp;state’s&nbsp;Mamata administration for violence and sexual atrocities in the region.’

“So many atrocities were committed against women in Sandeshkhali and the TMC government kept protecting the main accused till the end,"&nbsp;the PM had said during an election rally in Malda.

<h2>Arrest of Sheikh Shahjahan</h2>

Sheikh Shahjahan&nbsp;was arrested&nbsp;in February in connection with the attack on ED officers.

ED officers were attacked by a mob of 1,000 people, reportedly instigated by Shahjahan.

Lok Sabha Election 2024: Sporadic incidents of violence reported from West Bengal

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Following the attack, the agency had&nbsp;given a complaint&nbsp;to the superintendent of police, Basirhat.

(With inputs from agencies)

India’s federal investigative agency Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday (Apr 26) recovered arms, including foreign-made pistols, from West Bengal’s Sandeshkhali.

India’s federal investigative agency Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday (Apr 26) recovered arms, including foreign-made pistols, from West Bengal’s Sandeshkhali. The federal agency had gone there to raid places in connection with the attack on the officers of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) by a mob led by a leader of the local ruling TMC party, Sheikh Shahjahan. As the large cache of weapons was discovered, CBI called in a team of National Security Guard (NSG) commandos to take control of the area. Below are the weapons recovered from the area: (i) 03 foreign-made Revolvers. (ii) 01 Indian Revolver. (iii) 01 Colt official Police Revolver. (iv) 01 foreign-made Pistol. (v) 01 country made Pistol. (vi) 09 mm bullets- 120 nos. (vii) .45 calibre cartridges – 50 nos. (viii) 9 mm calibre cartridges-120 nos. (ix) .380 cartridges -50 nos. (x) .32 cartridges- 08 nos. The ED team was attacked on January 5 as they went to raid the premises of Shajahan Sheikh in connection with a ration scam. It must be noted that the West Bengal High Court had directed the CBI to take up the probe into allegations of land grabbing and sexual assault in Sandeshkhali. The CBI had also filed three FIRs about the case. West Bengal government reaches Supreme Court Meanwhile, the West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, reached the Supreme Court Friday against the HC’s order. In Sandeshkhali, women held protests against the ruling TMC and Shahjahan, accusing him and his aides of committing atrocities and seizing their lands illegally. Also read: Lok Sabha Election 2024 Highlights: `First phase, great response!` PM Modi thanks voters Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also targeted the state’s Mamata administration for violence and sexual atrocities in the region.’ “So many atrocities were committed against women in Sandeshkhali and the TMC government kept protecting the main accused till the end," the PM had said during an election rally in Malda. Arrest of Sheikh Shahjahan Sheikh Shahjahan was arrested in February in connection with the attack on ED officers. ED officers were attacked by a mob of 1,000 people, reportedly instigated by Shahjahan. Lok Sabha Election 2024: Sporadic incidents of violence reported from West Bengal × Following the attack, the agency had given a complaint to the superintendent of police, Basirhat. (With inputs from agencies)

NSG commandoes deployed in Bengal’s Sandeshkhali after CBI seizes foreign-made arms

West Bengal Chief Minister and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Friday (Apr 12) hit out at the BJP after the leader of the saffron party,&nbsp;Amit Malviya, called the eastern state a "safe haven" for terrorists.

Earlier in the day, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) nabbed two key suspects in connection with the Bengaluru Rameshwaram cafe blast.

The detainees include Mussavir Hussain Shazeb, the man who placed the IED at the cafe, and Abdul Matheen Taha, the 'mastermind' behind the explosion.

<h2>'Safe haven' for terrorists</h2>

Following the arrests, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) IT cell chief Amit Malviya took to his official X handle and alleged that the state had turned into a "safe haven" for terrorists.

"NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cell in Shivamogga, Karnataka. West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe haven for terrorists," Malviya wrote in a post&nbsp;on X.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengaluru-rameshwaram-cafe-blast-nia-nabs-the-mastermind-and-man-who-planted-ied-from-near-kolkata-710416">Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe blast: NIA nabs 'mastermind' and man who planted IED from near Kolkata</a>

Mamata, while addressing a rally in Cooch Behar, said that the accused were arrested in a joint operation conducted by the central intelligence agencies along with the West Bengal Police from Purba Medinipur.

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NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cell in Shivamogga, Karnataka. 
 
West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe…
— Amit Malviya (मोदी का परिवार) (@amitmalviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/amitmalviya/status/1778653955108540858?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"Heard one BJP leader saying that a bomb blast took place in Bangalore. The accused are from Karnataka, not from here. They were hiding in Bengal for two hours and in two hours our police managed to nab them. And they are saying that Bengal is not safe?," said the chief minister.

The West Bengal Police also shared a post on social media stating, "Contrary to the claims made by @amitmalviya, the fact is that, two suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case have been arrested from Purba Medinipur in a JOINT operation by the West Bengal Police and the Central Intelligence Agencies."

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Falsehood at its worst! 
 
Contrary to the claims made by <a href="https://twitter.com/amitmalviya?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@amitmalviya</a>, the fact is that, two suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case have been arrested from Purba Medinipur in a JOINT operation by the West Bengal Police and the Central Intelligence Agencies. (1/2)
— West Bengal Police (@WBPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/WBPolice/status/1778666483310334227?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"The proactive role of WBP in the matter has been officially acknowledged by the Central Agencies. West Bengal has NEVER been a safe haven for terrorists and the state police will continue to remain ever-vigilant in keeping its people safe from nefarious activities," the state police further said.

(With inputs from agencies)

West Bengal Chief Minister and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Friday (Apr 12) hit out at the BJP after the leader of the saffron party, Amit Malviya, called the eastern state a "safe haven" for terrorists.

West Bengal Chief Minister and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Friday (Apr 12) hit out at the BJP after the leader of the saffron party, Amit Malviya, called the eastern state a "safe haven" for terrorists. Earlier in the day, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) nabbed two key suspects in connection with the Bengaluru Rameshwaram cafe blast. The detainees include Mussavir Hussain Shazeb, the man who placed the IED at the cafe, and Abdul Matheen Taha, the 'mastermind' behind the explosion. 'Safe haven' for terrorists Following the arrests, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) IT cell chief Amit Malviya took to his official X handle and alleged that the state had turned into a "safe haven" for terrorists. "NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cell in Shivamogga, Karnataka. West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe haven for terrorists," Malviya wrote in a post on X. Also read: Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe blast: NIA nabs 'mastermind' and man who planted IED from near Kolkata Mamata, while addressing a rally in Cooch Behar, said that the accused were arrested in a joint operation conducted by the central intelligence agencies along with the West Bengal Police from Purba Medinipur. NIA detains two chief suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast, bomber Mussavir Hussain Shazib and accomplice Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taahaa, from Kolkata. Both likely belong to ISIS cell in Shivamogga, Karnataka. West Bengal, unfortunately, under Mamata Banerjee, has become a safe… — Amit Malviya (मोदी का परिवार) (@amitmalviya) April 12, 2024 × "Heard one BJP leader saying that a bomb blast took place in Bangalore. The accused are from Karnataka, not from here. They were hiding in Bengal for two hours and in two hours our police managed to nab them. And they are saying that Bengal is not safe?," said the chief minister. The West Bengal Police also shared a post on social media stating, "Contrary to the claims made by @amitmalviya, the fact is that, two suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case have been arrested from Purba Medinipur in a JOINT operation by the West Bengal Police and the Central Intelligence Agencies." Falsehood at its worst! Contrary to the claims made by @amitmalviya, the fact is that, two suspects in the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case have been arrested from Purba Medinipur in a JOINT operation by the West Bengal Police and the Central Intelligence Agencies. (1/2) — West Bengal Police (@WBPolice) April 12, 2024 × "The proactive role of WBP in the matter has been officially acknowledged by the Central Agencies. West Bengal has NEVER been a safe haven for terrorists and the state police will continue to remain ever-vigilant in keeping its people safe from nefarious activities," the state police further said. (With inputs from agencies)

Mamata slams BJP over 'safe haven for terrorists' remark after NIA nabs Bengaluru blast accused from Kolkata

The Election Commission has decided to install GPS location tracking system in all vehicles that will be used for polling purposes in West Bengal. The poll body has asked the administration to take prompt action if any discrepancy is noticed.

India Election 2024: Election Commission to install GPS tracking in West Bengal poll vehicles

West Bengal police has registered an FIR against NIA officials for alleged molestation in the Bhupatinagar incident after the wife of an arrested TMC leader filed a complaint against them, while NIA asserted that the attack on them was completely unprovoked. Watch in for more details!

India: West Bengal Police register FIR against NIA

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