Two soldiers of the Indian Army were killed on Wednesday (March 29) during a routine river crossing exercise in West Bengal's Barrackpore. The soldiers, from the Assam regiment, were identified as Naik Lengkholal and Sepoy Aldrin Hmingthanzwala. "Lt Gen RP Kalita #ArmyCdrEC and All Ranks offer tribute to the supreme sacrifice of Nk Lengkholal and Sep Aldrin Hmingthanzuala, in the line of duty at Barrackpore while carrying out Assault River crossing exercise. Indian Army stands firm with the bereaved families," the Eastern Command tweeted on Thursday.&nbsp;

According to a report by the news agency IANS, their mortal remains were being flown back to their respective homes after completing the necessary formalities, including autopsies conducted to ascertain the cause of death. The army has set up a court of inquiry (CoI) to probe the incident that took place on Wednesday. 
&nbsp;

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Lt Gen RP Kalita <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArmyCdrEC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArmyCdrEC</a> &amp; All Ranks offer tribute to the supreme sacrifice of Nk Lengkholal &amp; Sep Aldrin Hmingthanzuala, in the line of duty at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Barrackpore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Barrackpore</a> while carrying out Assault River crossing excercise. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> stands firm with the bereaved families <a href="https://t.co/OXXm9UFcVd">pic.twitter.com/OXXm9UFcVd</a>
— EasternCommand_IA (@easterncomd) <a href="https://twitter.com/easterncomd/status/1641330523065958400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The incident occurred at the Sarovar Lake within the Barrackpore Cantonment, about 40 kilometres north of Kolkata. On Wednesday morning, six soldiers were participating in the exercise. While the first three soldiers made it safely, the rope snapped when the remaining were crossing. While one soldier could be rescued, the other two drowned.

An official from the Eastern Command said that assault river crossing exercises are held at the lake on a routine basis.

Such exercises are usually held with all the trappings of a real-life situation, including enemy posts maintaining watch. This means that the soldiers participating (in the exercise) are in full battle gear. It is a 'touch and go'&nbsp;situation if a soldier loses his grip on the rope unless he is an expert swimmer.

"Unfortunately, that is how it is. The army needs to train its personnel for all situations. We have been part of such exercises. Life jackets are not an option, given the weight a soldier carries," a person familiar with developments told IANS.&nbsp;

The person said that incidents (like that of Wednesday) were unfortunate but rare, adding, a probe was certainly required to know why the rope snapped. "If somebody is found responsible, he should be punished," the person further said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Two soldiers of the Indian Army were killed on Wednesday (March 29) during a routine river crossing exercise in West Bengal's Barrackpore. The soldiers, from the Assam regiment, were identified as Naik Lengkholal and Sepoy Aldrin Hmingthanzwala.

Two soldiers of the Indian Army were killed on Wednesday (March 29) during a routine river crossing exercise in West Bengal's Barrackpore. The soldiers, from the Assam regiment, were identified as Naik Lengkholal and Sepoy Aldrin Hmingthanzwala. "Lt Gen RP Kalita #ArmyCdrEC and All Ranks offer tribute to the supreme sacrifice of Nk Lengkholal and Sep Aldrin Hmingthanzuala, in the line of duty at Barrackpore while carrying out Assault River crossing exercise. Indian Army stands firm with the bereaved families," the Eastern Command tweeted on Thursday. According to a report by the news agency IANS, their mortal remains were being flown back to their respective homes after completing the necessary formalities, including autopsies conducted to ascertain the cause of death. The army has set up a court of inquiry (CoI) to probe the incident that took place on Wednesday. Lt Gen RP Kalita #ArmyCdrEC & All Ranks offer tribute to the supreme sacrifice of Nk Lengkholal & Sep Aldrin Hmingthanzuala, in the line of duty at #Barrackpore while carrying out Assault River crossing excercise. #IndianArmy stands firm with the bereaved families pic.twitter.com/OXXm9UFcVd — EasternCommand_IA (@easterncomd) March 30, 2023 × The incident occurred at the Sarovar Lake within the Barrackpore Cantonment, about 40 kilometres north of Kolkata. On Wednesday morning, six soldiers were participating in the exercise. While the first three soldiers made it safely, the rope snapped when the remaining were crossing. While one soldier could be rescued, the other two drowned. An official from the Eastern Command said that assault river crossing exercises are held at the lake on a routine basis. Such exercises are usually held with all the trappings of a real-life situation, including enemy posts maintaining watch. This means that the soldiers participating (in the exercise) are in full battle gear. It is a 'touch and go' situation if a soldier loses his grip on the rope unless he is an expert swimmer. "Unfortunately, that is how it is. The army needs to train its personnel for all situations. We have been part of such exercises. Life jackets are not an option, given the weight a soldier carries," a person familiar with developments told IANS. The person said that incidents (like that of Wednesday) were unfortunate but rare, adding, a probe was certainly required to know why the rope snapped. "If somebody is found responsible, he should be punished," the person further said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

West Bengal: Two army soldiers killed after rope snaps during training exercise in Barrackpore

Nineteen children died in India's West Bengal so far this year after suffering from acute respiratory infections, and thousands remain hospitalised as the nation fights an adenovirus outbreak.

Since January, more than 12,000 cases of adenovirus were recorded in the state. People have admitted more than 3,000 children to the hospital with severe flu-like symptoms.

The Association of Health Service Doctors warned that there are chances of the number of cases and deaths turning out to be much higher than official statistics.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/adenovirus-scare-in-wes-bengal-mamata-banerjee-says-adequate-measures-being-taken-567781">Adenovirus scare in West Bengal? Mamata Banerjee says adequate measures being taken</a>

Some local media have reported the death toll to be more than 100 children. The healthcare system of the state is struggling to cope. Few hospitals have claimed that their paediatric wards are full, and reports have emerged that children have been forced to share their hospital beds.

Adenoviruses are said to cause eye, stomach and respiratory infections. Health officials stated that two mutated adenovirus strains have led to sickness and death of children.

The virus has also been traced in the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. The local government has set up helplines to answer calls from the concerned parents and the leaves of health workers have been cancelled by the Health and Family Welfare Department to deal with the volume of cases.

Instructions have been given to clinics to remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The protocols adopted during the Covid pandemic like social distancing and wearing masks have been introduced to slow infections, although the authorities have not ordered the schools to close.

“The magnitude and severity of the epidemic are unprecedented,” stated paediatrician Apurba Ghosh.

An eight-member task force has been formed by the West Bengal government to monitor cases and treatment. Doctors stated that the cases are being reported in children in high volume because they failed to build immunity to common infections during lockdowns.

“The primary healthcare centres in the state, which are the first point of healthcare intervention, are not equipped with health management for severe paediatric ailments,” said a healthcare official.

WATCH | Gravitas: The mystery behind the alleged poisoning of children in Iran

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Dr Prabhas Prasun Giri, who looks after the paediatric intensive care unit at the Institute of Child Health in Kolkata, said that the state did not prepare to handle the huge influx of patients.

“As we live in the post-Covid era, we should be prepared for any such type of virus outbreak. This year, it’s an adenovirus. Next year, it may be RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). Another year, it may be flu,” he stated.&nbsp;

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Nineteen children died in India's West Bengal so far this year after suffering from acute respiratory infections, and thousands remain hospitalised as the nation fights an adenovirus outbreak.

Nineteen children died in India's West Bengal so far this year after suffering from acute respiratory infections, and thousands remain hospitalised as the nation fights an adenovirus outbreak. Since January, more than 12,000 cases of adenovirus were recorded in the state. People have admitted more than 3,000 children to the hospital with severe flu-like symptoms. The Association of Health Service Doctors warned that there are chances of the number of cases and deaths turning out to be much higher than official statistics. ALSO READ | Adenovirus scare in West Bengal? Mamata Banerjee says adequate measures being taken Some local media have reported the death toll to be more than 100 children. The healthcare system of the state is struggling to cope. Few hospitals have claimed that their paediatric wards are full, and reports have emerged that children have been forced to share their hospital beds. Adenoviruses are said to cause eye, stomach and respiratory infections. Health officials stated that two mutated adenovirus strains have led to sickness and death of children. The virus has also been traced in the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. The local government has set up helplines to answer calls from the concerned parents and the leaves of health workers have been cancelled by the Health and Family Welfare Department to deal with the volume of cases. Instructions have been given to clinics to remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The protocols adopted during the Covid pandemic like social distancing and wearing masks have been introduced to slow infections, although the authorities have not ordered the schools to close. “The magnitude and severity of the epidemic are unprecedented,” stated paediatrician Apurba Ghosh. An eight-member task force has been formed by the West Bengal government to monitor cases and treatment. Doctors stated that the cases are being reported in children in high volume because they failed to build immunity to common infections during lockdowns. “The primary healthcare centres in the state, which are the first point of healthcare intervention, are not equipped with health management for severe paediatric ailments,” said a healthcare official. WATCH | Gravitas: The mystery behind the alleged poisoning of children in Iran Dr Prabhas Prasun Giri, who looks after the paediatric intensive care unit at the Institute of Child Health in Kolkata, said that the state did not prepare to handle the huge influx of patients. “As we live in the post-Covid era, we should be prepared for any such type of virus outbreak. This year, it’s an adenovirus. Next year, it may be RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). Another year, it may be flu,” he stated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Adenovirus outbreak hits India's West Bengal, 19 children die and thousands hospitalised

While conducting an air surveillance sortie over the sea, in the aftermath of cyclone 'Sitrang' that struck Bangladesh, the Indian Coast Guard(ICG) spotted 20 Bangladeshi fishermen and rescued them. The fishers were spotted off the Coast of India's West Bengal and were rescued by an Offshore patrol vessel(OPV) of the ICG.

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In the aftermath of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneSitrang?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneSitrang</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SitrangCyclone?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SitrangCyclone</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#indian</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coastguard?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coastguard</a> Dornier aircraft spotted 20 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bangladeshi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bangladeshi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fishermen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fishermen</a> marooned at sea, off <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/westbengal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#westbengal</a> coast &amp; ICG Offshore patrol vessel rescued them <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaCoastGuard</a> will repatriate them by handing over to Ban CG <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RESCUE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RESCUE</a> <a href="https://t.co/k664fMUtYz">pic.twitter.com/k664fMUtYz</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1585148286201364480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The ICG Dornier maritime patrol and surveillance aircraft spotted the fishermen who were marooned at sea on 25th&nbsp;October, Tuesday. Pictures and videos of the fishermen, as clicked from the aircraft, indicate they were clinging to debris and floats after their fishing boat had sunk.&nbsp;

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These rescued fishermen were clinging on to debris and floats due to sinking of fishing boat and are planned to be handed over to Bangladesh Coast Guard i.a.w. MoU existing between the two Coast Guards. <a href="https://t.co/qhvNG3je7L">pic.twitter.com/qhvNG3je7L</a>
— PRO Defence Kolkata (@ProDefKolkata) <a href="https://twitter.com/ProDefKolkata/status/1585133779777388544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The fishermen of the neighbouring country would be handed over to the Bangladeshi Coast Guard, in accordance with an existing MoU between the Indian Coast Guard and their Bangladeshi counterpart.&nbsp;

While conducting an air surveillance sortie over the sea, in the aftermath of cyclone 'Sitrang' that struck Bangladesh, the Indian Coast Guard(ICG) spotted 20 Bangladeshi fishermen and rescued them.

While conducting an air surveillance sortie over the sea, in the aftermath of cyclone 'Sitrang' that struck Bangladesh, the Indian Coast Guard(ICG) spotted 20 Bangladeshi fishermen and rescued them. The fishers were spotted off the Coast of India's West Bengal and were rescued by an Offshore patrol vessel(OPV) of the ICG. In the aftermath of #CycloneSitrang #SitrangCyclone #indian #coastguard Dornier aircraft spotted 20 #bangladeshi #fishermen marooned at sea, off #westbengal coast & ICG Offshore patrol vessel rescued them @IndiaCoastGuard will repatriate them by handing over to Ban CG #RESCUE pic.twitter.com/k664fMUtYz — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) October 26, 2022 × The ICG Dornier maritime patrol and surveillance aircraft spotted the fishermen who were marooned at sea on 25th October, Tuesday. Pictures and videos of the fishermen, as clicked from the aircraft, indicate they were clinging to debris and floats after their fishing boat had sunk. These rescued fishermen were clinging on to debris and floats due to sinking of fishing boat and are planned to be handed over to Bangladesh Coast Guard i.a.w. MoU existing between the two Coast Guards. pic.twitter.com/qhvNG3je7L — PRO Defence Kolkata (@ProDefKolkata) October 26, 2022 × The fishermen of the neighbouring country would be handed over to the Bangladeshi Coast Guard, in accordance with an existing MoU between the Indian Coast Guard and their Bangladeshi counterpart.

India: ICG rescues 20 Bangladeshi fishermen off West Bengal coast

Recent incidents of flash floods in West Bengal and people drowning in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan have claimed at least 13 people, and several others are missing, as the five-day-long Durga Pooja festival comes to an end.

Hundreds of people at the banks of the Mal river, Jagalpuro, West Bengal were hit by strong waves of water, leading to the deaths of eight people, amongst whom four were women.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/vijaya-dashami-2022-triumph-of-good-over-evil-india-celebrates-dussehra-by-burning-raavan-effigies-522850">Also read |&nbsp;Vijaya Dashami 2022 | Triumph of good over evil: India celebrates Dussehra by burning Raavan effigies</a>

The incident occurred around 8:30 on Wednesday (October 5) when hundreds of people went near the river during idol immersion on Vijayadashami.&nbsp; The NDRF, SDRF, and police, along with local authorities, are still searching for missing people.

Taking it to Twitter, the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi expressed his condolences for the incident.&nbsp;

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Anguished by the mishap during Durga Puja festivities in Jalpaiguri, West Bengal. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1577727987650162688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In North Uttar Pradesh, three people, including a 15-year-old boy, drowned in the Yamuna River during the idol immersion, and no one was recovered during the search operation, ANI reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-how-india-celebrates-dusshera-522558">Also read |&nbsp;In pics | How India celebrates Dusshera</a>

In the west, Rajasthan's Ajmer reported a similar instance that occurred on Wednesday (October 6), where a ditch filled with rain water claimed the lives of six people during the idol immersion of an idol. All six bodies have been recovered by the authorities, and all of them will be handed over to their respective families later.

Many fear that the death toll might increase in West Bengal.&nbsp;

Similar incidents were reported last month in Maharashtra during Ganpati Visarjan on September 9, which claimed the lives of nearly 20 people all across the state, and eight were found dead in Haryana.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Recent incidents of flash floods in West Bengal and people drowning in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan have claimed at least 13 people, and several others are missing, as the five-day-long Durga Pooja festival comes to an end.

Recent incidents of flash floods in West Bengal and people drowning in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan have claimed at least 13 people, and several others are missing, as the five-day-long Durga Pooja festival comes to an end. Hundreds of people at the banks of the Mal river, Jagalpuro, West Bengal were hit by strong waves of water, leading to the deaths of eight people, amongst whom four were women. Also read | Vijaya Dashami 2022 | Triumph of good over evil: India celebrates Dussehra by burning Raavan effigies The incident occurred around 8:30 on Wednesday (October 5) when hundreds of people went near the river during idol immersion on Vijayadashami. The NDRF, SDRF, and police, along with local authorities, are still searching for missing people. Taking it to Twitter, the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi expressed his condolences for the incident. Anguished by the mishap during Durga Puja festivities in Jalpaiguri, West Bengal. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 5, 2022 × In North Uttar Pradesh, three people, including a 15-year-old boy, drowned in the Yamuna River during the idol immersion, and no one was recovered during the search operation, ANI reported. Also read | In pics | How India celebrates Dusshera In the west, Rajasthan's Ajmer reported a similar instance that occurred on Wednesday (October 6), where a ditch filled with rain water claimed the lives of six people during the idol immersion of an idol. All six bodies have been recovered by the authorities, and all of them will be handed over to their respective families later. Many fear that the death toll might increase in West Bengal. Similar incidents were reported last month in Maharashtra during Ganpati Visarjan on September 9, which claimed the lives of nearly 20 people all across the state, and eight were found dead in Haryana. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: 13 killed, several missing during Durga idol immersion in UP, Rajasthan, and West Bengal 

The conflict between North Korea and South Korea continues as the former fired two short-range ballistic missiles on the eastern coast of the Korean peninsula on Thursday. In other news, the US is reportedly offering to help analyze audio recordings from around the time of the Nord Stream gas pipelines' apparent sabotage. Meanwhile, the Indonesia Police have been accused of firing tear gas into the spectator stands and blocking the gates of the football stadium during the stampede which killed at least 131 people and left hundreds injured. Finally,&nbsp;recent flash floods in the Mal river in West Bengal's Jagalpuri has claimed the lives of nearly eight people, and several others have gone missing, officials stated.

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-two-ballistic-missiles-toward-sea-in-direction-of-japan-522855">North Korea fires two ballistic missiles toward sea in direction of Japan</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/06/301557-00032kn4fm.jpg" />

The missiles were launched in the direction of Japan in retaliation to the joint military drills conducted by South Korea and the United States.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nord-stream-leaks-probe-us-might-offer-to-help-analyze-underwater-recordings-522862">Nord Stream leaks probe: US might offer to help analyze underwater recordings</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/06/301559-untitled-design-41.png" />

The end result will depend on the quality of the recordings. But at this point it is unclear if the recordings being provided by Sweden and Denmark are good enough or not.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/witnesses-blame-indonsian-police-for-thier-response-to-football-riot-522870">Witnesses blame Indonesian police for their response to football riot</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/06/301561-football.jpg" />

The witnesses believe that had the police acted swiftly and not blocked the stadium’s exits, they could have minimised the casualties during the chaos.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-eight-killed-several-missing-during-flash-floods-in-west-bengal-rescue-operation-underway-522874">Eight killed, several missing during Durga idol immersion in West Bengal</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/06/301563-ff2.png" />

The incident occurred around 8:30 on Wednesday (October 5) when hundreds of people went near the river during idol immersion on Vijayadashami. Four of the dead were&nbsp;women.

Watch |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden visits hurricane-hit Florida to review destruction

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-joe-biden-visits-hurricane-hit-florida-to-review-destruction-522877/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

The conflict between North Korea and South Korea continues as the former fired two short-range ballistic missiles on the eastern coast of the Korean peninsula on Thursday.

The conflict between North Korea and South Korea continues as the former fired two short-range ballistic missiles on the eastern coast of the Korean peninsula on Thursday. In other news, the US is reportedly offering to help analyze audio recordings from around the time of the Nord Stream gas pipelines' apparent sabotage. Meanwhile, the Indonesia Police have been accused of firing tear gas into the spectator stands and blocking the gates of the football stadium during the stampede which killed at least 131 people and left hundreds injured. Finally, recent flash floods in the Mal river in West Bengal's Jagalpuri has claimed the lives of nearly eight people, and several others have gone missing, officials stated. Click on the headlines to read more: North Korea fires two ballistic missiles toward sea in direction of Japan The missiles were launched in the direction of Japan in retaliation to the joint military drills conducted by South Korea and the United States. Nord Stream leaks probe: US might offer to help analyze underwater recordings The end result will depend on the quality of the recordings. But at this point it is unclear if the recordings being provided by Sweden and Denmark are good enough or not. Witnesses blame Indonesian police for their response to football riot The witnesses believe that had the police acted swiftly and not blocked the stadium’s exits, they could have minimised the casualties during the chaos. Eight killed, several missing during Durga idol immersion in West Bengal The incident occurred around 8:30 on Wednesday (October 5) when hundreds of people went near the river during idol immersion on Vijayadashami. Four of the dead were women. Watch | US President Joe Biden visits hurricane-hit Florida to review destruction

Morning news brief: North Korea fires ballistic missiles, eight killed in India, & more

This is the season when the Indian state of West Bengal and the whole Bengali community around the globe go shopping, when the workers and clerks stage street demonstrations daily for Puja bonus, all the Puja specials are on sale and the people gear up for feast and festivity. It's Durga Puja time. But have you wondered about the economic aspect of the festival? Here's everything you need to know.

Explained The economic aspect of Durga Puja

In December 2021, `Durga Puja in Kolkata’ was included in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. A team of officials of UNESCO have already arrived in Kolkata to witness the Durga Puja celebrations in person.

UNESCO team in Kolkata to witness the Durga Puja celebrations in person

West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee announced on Monday that the east Indian state would gain seven new districts, bringing the total to 30. This announcement came after Banerjee decided to expand her cabinet from four to five ministers.

West Bengal CM Mamta Banerjee has introduced seven new districts in her state

These seven new districts have been established to streamline administrative operations in West Bengal. According to a senior government official in West Bengal, "the decision was made to ensure smooth administrative operations."

Is there any need to add seven new districts in West Bengal?

If this move is viewed through a political lens, Banerjee's TMC party would like to create more districts in order to reach a larger audience. The formation of new districts is intended to provide an electoral dividend to the current ruling party. It would allow the party to become more region-specific and focused. The establishment of new districts will also aim to improve law and order in the state, as the Mamta-led government is frequently chastised by the opposition party for its poor handling of the law and order situation.

The following are the seven new districts established in West Bengal

(1): Berhampore (2):Jangipur (3): Sundarban (4): Bashirhat (5): Ichamati (6): Ranaghat (7): Bishnupur&nbsp;

Here is the full list of districts in West Bengal:

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West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee announced on Monday that the east Indian state would gain seven new districts, bringing the total to 30. This announcement came after Banerjee decided to expand her cabinet from four to five ministers.

West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee announced on Monday that the east Indian state would gain seven new districts, bringing the total to 30. This announcement came after Banerjee decided to expand her cabinet from four to five ministers. West Bengal CM Mamta Banerjee has introduced seven new districts in her state These seven new districts have been established to streamline administrative operations in West Bengal. According to a senior government official in West Bengal, "the decision was made to ensure smooth administrative operations." Is there any need to add seven new districts in West Bengal? If this move is viewed through a political lens, Banerjee's TMC party would like to create more districts in order to reach a larger audience. The formation of new districts is intended to provide an electoral dividend to the current ruling party. It would allow the party to become more region-specific and focused. The establishment of new districts will also aim to improve law and order in the state, as the Mamta-led government is frequently chastised by the opposition party for its poor handling of the law and order situation. The following are the seven new districts established in West Bengal (1): Berhampore (2):Jangipur (3): Sundarban (4): Bashirhat (5): Ichamati (6): Ranaghat (7): Bishnupur Here is the full list of districts in West Bengal:

West Bengal introduces 7 new districts: Check full list

Images of a cash haul in West Bengal are going viral. They show huge piles of cash, gold & jewellery worth millions. The ill-gotten wealth was found on Partha Chatterjee. Palki Sharma tells you how the lawmaker exploited desperate & jobless people.

Gravitas: $6.9 Million seized in raids on Indian Lawmaker

A Lawmaker from West Bengal's ruling party has been arrested on charges of corruption, he is said to have pulled off a massive teacher-recruitment scam in return he secured cash, gold jewelry and property bonds.

Decoding West Bengal's SSC Scam: $6.9 million seized from Indian lawmaker

The West Bengal government on Monday extended the summer vacation in state-run and state-aided schools for another 10 days till June 26 in view of "extreme heat wave conditions".

Principal Secretary (Education) Manish Jain said in a notification that the decision was taken keeping in mind the safety of students.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heatwave-causes-record-temperatures-in-southwestern-us-487697">Heatwave causes record temperatures in southwestern US</a>

"With regard to declaring summer vacation in the schools due to extreme heat wave conditions, as reports of a few death cases due to heat and humidity have been received, the competent authority has decided to extend the summer vacation", the government release said.

The notice was issued to the West Bengal Board of Secondary Education and the West Bengal Board of Primary Education.

Watch |&nbsp;Delhi: 6 spells of a heat wave this summer with temperatures hitting 49° celsius in May

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The summer vacation in schools had already been extended from mid-April, owing to the hot and humid conditions.

The notice comes a day after the death of three elderly pilgrims during a religious function at Panihati due to heat.&nbsp;

However, the summer vacation has not been extended for schools in hilly areas of Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts, the government stated.

The West Bengal school education department had earlier issued a letter to the West Bengal Board of Secondary Education&nbsp;and the West Bengal Board of Primary Education, advising them to declare early summer vacation from May 2 to June 15 due to the extreme heatwave conditions in the state.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/heatwave-reduced-indias-wheat-crop-yield-by-10-to-30-this-year-report-481613">Heatwave reduced India's wheat crop yield by 10 to 30% this year: Report</a>

Private schools&nbsp;that had been continuing with offline classes after the heatwave became less intense also&nbsp;declared an early summer vacation from May 9 after being urged by the school education department to suspend classes.

However, teachers and parents are worried that the long summer break will affect the daily school-going habit of students, after a long break due to the pandemic.

Monsoon has arrived in north Bengal but is yet to reach Calcutta and other parts of south Bengal.&nbsp;The maximum temperature has been hovering around 35°C on most days.

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

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The West Bengal government on Monday extended the summer vacation in state-run and state-aided schools for another 10 days till June 26 in view of "extreme heat wave conditions".

The West Bengal government on Monday extended the summer vacation in state-run and state-aided schools for another 10 days till June 26 in view of "extreme heat wave conditions". Principal Secretary (Education) Manish Jain said in a notification that the decision was taken keeping in mind the safety of students. Also read | Heatwave causes record temperatures in southwestern US "With regard to declaring summer vacation in the schools due to extreme heat wave conditions, as reports of a few death cases due to heat and humidity have been received, the competent authority has decided to extend the summer vacation", the government release said. The notice was issued to the West Bengal Board of Secondary Education and the West Bengal Board of Primary Education. Watch | Delhi: 6 spells of a heat wave this summer with temperatures hitting 49° celsius in May The summer vacation in schools had already been extended from mid-April, owing to the hot and humid conditions. The notice comes a day after the death of three elderly pilgrims during a religious function at Panihati due to heat. However, the summer vacation has not been extended for schools in hilly areas of Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts, the government stated. The West Bengal school education department had earlier issued a letter to the West Bengal Board of Secondary Education and the West Bengal Board of Primary Education, advising them to declare early summer vacation from May 2 to June 15 due to the extreme heatwave conditions in the state. Also read | Heatwave reduced India's wheat crop yield by 10 to 30% this year: Report Private schools that had been continuing with offline classes after the heatwave became less intense also declared an early summer vacation from May 9 after being urged by the school education department to suspend classes. However, teachers and parents are worried that the long summer break will affect the daily school-going habit of students, after a long break due to the pandemic. Monsoon has arrived in north Bengal but is yet to reach Calcutta and other parts of south Bengal. The maximum temperature has been hovering around 35°C on most days. Watch WION LIVE HERE:

Summer vacation in Bengal govt schools extended due to 'extreme heat'

A SpiceJet flight faced severe turbulence on Sunday and several videos of the incident went viral. The flight bound from Mumbai to West Bengal faced air turbulence during its descent at the Durgapur airport.

Watch: Panic in SpiceJet flight amid plane facing severe turbulence

Health workers in India are travelling by boat to vaccinate people living in the remote mangroves of the Sundarbans in West Bengal state as the country works to vaccinate people against the coronavirus.

Health workers travel by boat to vaccinate people in West Bengal

Jharkhand on high alert after cyclone Yaas batters Odisha, West Bengal

Indian state of West Bengal on Saturday announced a complete lockdown from May 16 till May 30 in order to contain spread of coronavirus in the state.

"We are taking some strict measures to contain the pandemic, starting Sunday 6 am till 6 pm of May 30," Chief Secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay said.

During this period, all government and private offices, shopping complexes, malls, bars, sports complexes, pubs and beauty parlours will remain closed, he said.

Movement of private vehicles, taxis, buses, metro rail, suburban trains will also be disallowed during the 15- day lockdown period.

"Petrol pumps will remain open and essential services like milk, water, medicine, electricity, fire, law and order and media will not come under the purview of it," he added.

E-commerce and home delivery services will be allowed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian state of West Bengal on Saturday announced a complete lockdown from May 16 till May 30 in order to contain spread of coronavirus in the state. "We are taking some strict measures to contain the pandemic, starting Sunday 6 am till 6 pm of May 30," Chief Secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay said.

Indian state of West Bengal on Saturday announced a complete lockdown from May 16 till May 30 in order to contain spread of coronavirus in the state. "We are taking some strict measures to contain the pandemic, starting Sunday 6 am till 6 pm of May 30," Chief Secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay said. During this period, all government and private offices, shopping complexes, malls, bars, sports complexes, pubs and beauty parlours will remain closed, he said. Movement of private vehicles, taxis, buses, metro rail, suburban trains will also be disallowed during the 15- day lockdown period. "Petrol pumps will remain open and essential services like milk, water, medicine, electricity, fire, law and order and media will not come under the purview of it," he added. E-commerce and home delivery services will be allowed. (With inputs from agencies)

West Bengal announces complete lockdown to stop Covid spread

The ruling Trinamool Congress scored an emphatic victory in West Bengal in the face of stiff challenge posed by BJP with the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee leading the party to its third successive victory in assembly polls.While the BJP-led NDA retained Assam, the ruling LDF created history by retaining Kerala. DMK is poised to oust AIADMK in Tamil Nadu and in Puducherry, where Congress chief minister V Naryanasamy had resigned earlier this year, NR Congress-led NDA came to power.&nbsp;

The counting was held amid COVID-19 protocols. With a surge in cases in the country, no victory processions were allowed. In West Bengal, TMC has already won 198 seats and is leading on another 16 out of the total 292 seats for which elections were held. The party is poised to improve its 2016 tally of&nbsp;seats. However, Mamata Banerjee was defeated in Nandigram by her former ministerial colleague and BJP candidate Suvendu Adhikari. BJP, which had only three MLAs in the outgoing assembly, has won 48 seats and is leading on eight more. The party has major inroads in the state. One Independent candidate has also won in West Bengal while Rashtriya Secular Majlis Party is leading on one seat. The Samyukta alliance comprising Congress, Left parties and ISF failed to open its account.

Assam

In 126-member Assam assembly, BJP has won 47 seats and is leading on 12. Its alliance partner AGP has won nine seats and UPPL six seats. In Mahajot alliance, Congress won 21 seats and is leading on eight, AIUDF won ten seats and is leading on six, CPI-M won one seat and BPF won three seats and is leading on one. Independents won one seat and are leading on another.

Puducherry

In 30-member Puducherry assembly, NR Congress won 10 seats and BJP six. DMK has won five seats and is leading on one, Congress won two seats and independents six seats. AIADMK failed to open its account.

Tamil Nadu

The DMK-led alliance scored an emphatic win in Tamil Nadu. According to the latest trends from the Election Commission, DMK has already won 62 seats and is leading on 71 in the 234-member assembly.AIADMK also won 26 seats and is leading on 43 while its ally BJP won on one seat and is leading on three seats. Paattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) has won one seat and is leading on three others. Congress, which is an ally of DMK has won 3 seats and is leading on 13 more. DMK`s other allies CPI and CPI (M) have won one seat each and are leading on one seat each and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) has won two and is leading on two more.

Kerala

In Kerala, all results have been declared with CPI-M winning 62 seats. Among the other constituents of LDF, CPI has won 17 seats, Kerala Congress (M) has won five seats, NCP and Janata Dal (Secular) both won two seats each and Janadhipathya Kerala Congress also won one seat.LDF allies Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD), Indian National League (INL), and Kerala Congress (B) also won one seat each.In the UDF`s pavilion, Congress has won 21 seats, IUML won 15, and Kerala Congress (Jacob) one seat.West Bengal saw eight-phase polling, Assam went for three-phased election while Kerala, Puducherry and Tamil Nadu went for single-phase election on April 6.

The ruling Trinamool Congress scored an emphatic victory in West Bengal in the face of stiff challenge posed by BJP with the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee leading the party to its third successive victory in assembly polls.

The ruling Trinamool Congress scored an emphatic victory in West Bengal in the face of stiff challenge posed by BJP with the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee leading the party to its third successive victory in assembly polls.While the BJP-led NDA retained Assam, the ruling LDF created history by retaining Kerala. DMK is poised to oust AIADMK in Tamil Nadu and in Puducherry, where Congress chief minister V Naryanasamy had resigned earlier this year, NR Congress-led NDA came to power. The counting was held amid COVID-19 protocols. With a surge in cases in the country, no victory processions were allowed. In West Bengal, TMC has already won 198 seats and is leading on another 16 out of the total 292 seats for which elections were held. The party is poised to improve its 2016 tally of seats. However, Mamata Banerjee was defeated in Nandigram by her former ministerial colleague and BJP candidate Suvendu Adhikari. BJP, which had only three MLAs in the outgoing assembly, has won 48 seats and is leading on eight more. The party has major inroads in the state. One Independent candidate has also won in West Bengal while Rashtriya Secular Majlis Party is leading on one seat. The Samyukta alliance comprising Congress, Left parties and ISF failed to open its account. Assam In 126-member Assam assembly, BJP has won 47 seats and is leading on 12. Its alliance partner AGP has won nine seats and UPPL six seats. In Mahajot alliance, Congress won 21 seats and is leading on eight, AIUDF won ten seats and is leading on six, CPI-M won one seat and BPF won three seats and is leading on one. Independents won one seat and are leading on another. Puducherry In 30-member Puducherry assembly, NR Congress won 10 seats and BJP six. DMK has won five seats and is leading on one, Congress won two seats and independents six seats. AIADMK failed to open its account. Tamil Nadu The DMK-led alliance scored an emphatic win in Tamil Nadu. According to the latest trends from the Election Commission, DMK has already won 62 seats and is leading on 71 in the 234-member assembly.AIADMK also won 26 seats and is leading on 43 while its ally BJP won on one seat and is leading on three seats. Paattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) has won one seat and is leading on three others. Congress, which is an ally of DMK has won 3 seats and is leading on 13 more. DMK`s other allies CPI and CPI (M) have won one seat each and are leading on one seat each and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) has won two and is leading on two more. Kerala In Kerala, all results have been declared with CPI-M winning 62 seats. Among the other constituents of LDF, CPI has won 17 seats, Kerala Congress (M) has won five seats, NCP and Janata Dal (Secular) both won two seats each and Janadhipathya Kerala Congress also won one seat.LDF allies Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD), Indian National League (INL), and Kerala Congress (B) also won one seat each.In the UDF`s pavilion, Congress has won 21 seats, IUML won 15, and Kerala Congress (Jacob) one seat.West Bengal saw eight-phase polling, Assam went for three-phased election while Kerala, Puducherry and Tamil Nadu went for single-phase election on April 6.

Trinamool scores hat-trick in Bengal, BJP retains Assam, LDF keeps Kerala

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated West Bengal and Kerala Chief Ministers Mamata Banerjee and Pinarayi Vijayan. Modi also congratulated Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Chief MK&nbsp;Stalin. 
 
In a series of tweets, Modi thanked the voters for supporting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). 
 
"Congratulations to Mamata Didi for Trinamool Congress`s win in West Bengal. The Centre will continue to extend all possible support to the West Bengal government to fulfil people`s aspirations and to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic," Modi tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Congratulations to Mamata Didi for <a href="https://twitter.com/AITCofficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AITCofficial</a>'s win in West Bengal. The Centre will continue to extend all possible support to the West Bengal Government to fulfil people’s aspirations and also to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic. <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MamataOfficial</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1388855746448695299?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In another tweet, the Prime Minister said, "I would like to thank my sisters and brothers of West Bengal who have blessed our party. From a negligible presence earlier, BJP`s presence has significantly increased. BJP will keep serving the people. I applaud each and every Karyakarta (party worker) for their spirited effort in the polls."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-ec-asks-chief-secretaries-of-statesuts-to-prohibit-victory-celebrations-382330">COVID-19: EC asks Chief Secretaries of states/UTs to prohibit victory celebrations</a>

Congratulating Pinarayi Vijayan, Modi tweeted,"I would like to congratulate Pinarayi Vijayan and the Left Democratic Front (LDF) for winning the Kerala Assembly elections. We will continue working together on a wide range of subjects and to ensure India mitigates the Covid-19 global pandemic."

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I would like to congratulate Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/vijayanpinarayi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vijayanpinarayi</a> and the LDF for winning the Kerala Assembly elections. We will continue working together on a wide range of subjects and to ensure India mitigates the COVID-19 global pandemic.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1388856468040945670?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Thanking the people of Kerala, Modi said, "Gratitude to the people of Kerala who supported our party during these elections. I appreciate the efforts of our industrious party karyakartas, who will continue serving the people of the state and strengthen the party at the grassroots level." 
 
Congratulating Stalin for the DMK`s victory in Tamil Nadu, Modi tweeted, "Congratulations to M K Stalin and the DMK for the victory in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. We will work together for enhancing national progress, fulfilling regional aspirations and defeating the COVID-19 pandemic."

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Congratulations to Thiru <a href="https://twitter.com/mkstalin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mkstalin</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/arivalayam?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@arivalayam</a> for the victory in the Tamil Nadu assembly elections. We shall work together for enhancing national progress, fulfilling regional aspirations and defeating the COVID-19 pandemic.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1388856729434132482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Thanking the people of Tamil Nadu, Modi said, "I would like to thank the people of Tamil Nadu who supported the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). I assure the people of Tamil Nadu that we will keep working towards the state`s welfare and to further popularise the glorious Tamil culture. I applaud our karyakartas for their hard work."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated West Bengal and Kerala Chief Ministers Mamata Banerjee and Pinarayi Vijayan. Modi also congratulated Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Chief MK Stalin.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated West Bengal and Kerala Chief Ministers Mamata Banerjee and Pinarayi Vijayan. Modi also congratulated Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Chief MK Stalin. In a series of tweets, Modi thanked the voters for supporting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). "Congratulations to Mamata Didi for Trinamool Congress`s win in West Bengal. The Centre will continue to extend all possible support to the West Bengal government to fulfil people`s aspirations and to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic," Modi tweeted. Congratulations to Mamata Didi for @AITCofficial's win in West Bengal. The Centre will continue to extend all possible support to the West Bengal Government to fulfil people’s aspirations and also to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic. @MamataOfficial — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 2, 2021 × In another tweet, the Prime Minister said, "I would like to thank my sisters and brothers of West Bengal who have blessed our party. From a negligible presence earlier, BJP`s presence has significantly increased. BJP will keep serving the people. I applaud each and every Karyakarta (party worker) for their spirited effort in the polls." Also read | COVID-19: EC asks Chief Secretaries of states/UTs to prohibit victory celebrations Congratulating Pinarayi Vijayan, Modi tweeted,"I would like to congratulate Pinarayi Vijayan and the Left Democratic Front (LDF) for winning the Kerala Assembly elections. We will continue working together on a wide range of subjects and to ensure India mitigates the Covid-19 global pandemic." I would like to congratulate Shri @vijayanpinarayi and the LDF for winning the Kerala Assembly elections. We will continue working together on a wide range of subjects and to ensure India mitigates the COVID-19 global pandemic. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 2, 2021 × Thanking the people of Kerala, Modi said, "Gratitude to the people of Kerala who supported our party during these elections. I appreciate the efforts of our industrious party karyakartas, who will continue serving the people of the state and strengthen the party at the grassroots level." Congratulating Stalin for the DMK`s victory in Tamil Nadu, Modi tweeted, "Congratulations to M K Stalin and the DMK for the victory in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. We will work together for enhancing national progress, fulfilling regional aspirations and defeating the COVID-19 pandemic." Congratulations to Thiru @mkstalin and @arivalayam for the victory in the Tamil Nadu assembly elections. We shall work together for enhancing national progress, fulfilling regional aspirations and defeating the COVID-19 pandemic. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 2, 2021 × Thanking the people of Tamil Nadu, Modi said, "I would like to thank the people of Tamil Nadu who supported the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). I assure the people of Tamil Nadu that we will keep working towards the state`s welfare and to further popularise the glorious Tamil culture. I applaud our karyakartas for their hard work."

PM Modi congratulates Mamata, Vijayan, Stalin; extends Centre's support

In view of a surge in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> infections, the Election Commission (EC) on Sunday wrote to Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories and heads of political parties to prohibit the victory celebrations where the counting of votes is underway and demanded strict compliance of directions.

In a letter to Chief Secretaries, the poll body asked to urgently prohibit the public celebrations being carried out in the context of today`s counting of votes.

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"The Commission has viewed it very seriously and again directed that all necessary actions must be taken to ensure the strict compliance of its directions wherein all such activities have already been prohibited in view of the pandemic," the EC`s letter said.

Further, the Commission directed Chief Secretaries to immediately suspend the responsible SHOs (in case they failed to prohibit the public celebrations) and initiate disciplinary actions against them.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/people-blessed-us-bjp-to-retain-power-in-assam-sonowal-382178">People blessed us, BJP to retain power in Assam: Sonowal</a>&nbsp;

In the letter to heads of political parties, the EC expressed its displeasure on the failure of certain parties to abide by the extant instructions. "In view of aforesaid, it is utmost necessary that you direct/guide your party representatives/followers with strictness to stop them to celebrate and show restraint in these challenging times and ask them to behave strictly in accordance with the ECI`s instructions and extant instructions on COVID issued by NDMA/SDMA.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/communist-party-of-india-marxist-leads-on-56-seats-in-kerala-assembly-polls-382164">Communist Party of India (Marxist) leads on 56 seats in Kerala Assembly polls</a>

The Commission said it has already directed CS/DGP concerned to take penal actions including FIR against the violators in all such cases under the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and other relevant laws. The counting of votes for the Assembly elections began this morning in the four states —&nbsp;Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Union Territory of Puducherry adhering to COVID-19 protocols.

While Assam and West Bengal saw multiple phases of polling, electors in Kerala, Puducherry and Tamil Nadu cast their votes in a single phase on April 6.&nbsp;

In view of a surge in COVID-19 infections, the Election Commission (EC) on Sunday wrote to Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories and heads of political parties to prohibit the victory celebrations where the counting of votes is underway and demanded strict compliance of directions.

In view of a surge in COVID-19 infections, the Election Commission (EC) on Sunday wrote to Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories and heads of political parties to prohibit the victory celebrations where the counting of votes is underway and demanded strict compliance of directions. In a letter to Chief Secretaries, the poll body asked to urgently prohibit the public celebrations being carried out in the context of today`s counting of votes. "The Commission has viewed it very seriously and again directed that all necessary actions must be taken to ensure the strict compliance of its directions wherein all such activities have already been prohibited in view of the pandemic," the EC`s letter said. Further, the Commission directed Chief Secretaries to immediately suspend the responsible SHOs (in case they failed to prohibit the public celebrations) and initiate disciplinary actions against them. Also read | People blessed us, BJP to retain power in Assam: Sonowal In the letter to heads of political parties, the EC expressed its displeasure on the failure of certain parties to abide by the extant instructions. "In view of aforesaid, it is utmost necessary that you direct/guide your party representatives/followers with strictness to stop them to celebrate and show restraint in these challenging times and ask them to behave strictly in accordance with the ECI`s instructions and extant instructions on COVID issued by NDMA/SDMA. Also read | Communist Party of India (Marxist) leads on 56 seats in Kerala Assembly polls The Commission said it has already directed CS/DGP concerned to take penal actions including FIR against the violators in all such cases under the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and other relevant laws. The counting of votes for the Assembly elections began this morning in the four states — Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Union Territory of Puducherry adhering to COVID-19 protocols. While Assam and West Bengal saw multiple phases of polling, electors in Kerala, Puducherry and Tamil Nadu cast their votes in a single phase on April 6.

COVID-19: EC asks Chief Secretaries of states/UTs to prohibit victory celebrations

Counting of votes for the West Bengal Assembly elections began today (2nd May) amid strict health protocols, as it is taking place amid a raging second wave of COVID-19.

West Bengal Assembly Election Result: Strict COVID-19 precautions followed at counting centre

As the day progressed, the ruling Trinamool Congress seemed to have an advantage in the race as TMC is leading in 166 seats while the Bharatiya Janata Party is leading in 83 seats as per the initial trends.&nbsp;

The counting of votes on 292 seats in the state has begun on Sunday at 8 am following the COVID-19 protocol.&nbsp;

The early trends showed that West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee is trailing from the Nandigram seat. Bengal witnessed a fierce contest between the ruling Trinamool Congress and BJP across eight phases.&nbsp;

The Samyukta Morcha comprising the Congress, Left parties and ISF has also tried to put up a strong fight.&nbsp;

The BJP has made a concerted attempt to dislodge the TMC.&nbsp;

The Election Commission has made necessary arrangements for counting.&nbsp;

The counting is taking place amid an unprecedented surge in COVID-19 cases in the country. Several surveys gave an edge to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC).&nbsp;

In West Bengal, all exit polls predicted that the BJP would make major inroads and a few also said that the party would emerge victoriously.&nbsp;

Times Now-C voter exit poll predicted 158 seats for TMC, 115 for BJP and 19 for others. ABP-C Voter predicted TMC to get 152-164 seats, BJP 109-121 seats and Left-Congress alliance 14-25 seats.&nbsp;

According to the Republic-CNX exit poll, BJP with 138-148 seats has an edge over TMC which is predicted to get 128-138 seats.&nbsp;

As per India TV- People`s Pulse, BJP is expected to get 173-192 seats while TMC will be reduced to 64-88 seats and the Left-Congress alliance will get 7-12 seats.&nbsp;

Axis My India predicted a hung assembly in Bengal with the ruling TMC expected to get 130-156 seats and BJP 134-160 seats.

As the day progressed, the ruling Trinamool Congress seemed to have an advantage in the race as TMC is leading in 166 seats while the Bharatiya Janata Party is leading in 83 seats as per the initial trends.

As the day progressed, the ruling Trinamool Congress seemed to have an advantage in the race as TMC is leading in 166 seats while the Bharatiya Janata Party is leading in 83 seats as per the initial trends. The counting of votes on 292 seats in the state has begun on Sunday at 8 am following the COVID-19 protocol. The early trends showed that West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee is trailing from the Nandigram seat. Bengal witnessed a fierce contest between the ruling Trinamool Congress and BJP across eight phases. The Samyukta Morcha comprising the Congress, Left parties and ISF has also tried to put up a strong fight. The BJP has made a concerted attempt to dislodge the TMC. The Election Commission has made necessary arrangements for counting. The counting is taking place amid an unprecedented surge in COVID-19 cases in the country. Several surveys gave an edge to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC). In West Bengal, all exit polls predicted that the BJP would make major inroads and a few also said that the party would emerge victoriously. Times Now-C voter exit poll predicted 158 seats for TMC, 115 for BJP and 19 for others. ABP-C Voter predicted TMC to get 152-164 seats, BJP 109-121 seats and Left-Congress alliance 14-25 seats. According to the Republic-CNX exit poll, BJP with 138-148 seats has an edge over TMC which is predicted to get 128-138 seats. As per India TV- People`s Pulse, BJP is expected to get 173-192 seats while TMC will be reduced to 64-88 seats and the Left-Congress alliance will get 7-12 seats. Axis My India predicted a hung assembly in Bengal with the ruling TMC expected to get 130-156 seats and BJP 134-160 seats.

West Bengal Assembly poll results: TMC leads in 166 seats, BJP in 83

A political controversy erupted in West Bengal during the fourth phase of the elections when BJP's IT cell released an audiotape of Trinamool' election strategist Prashant Kishor where he was heard saying a 'ClubHouse' chat that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is hugely popular in West Bengal and this is one of the factors that will decide which party sweeps the state.

BJP's IT cell chief Amit Malviya claimed that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's election strategist Prashant Kishor had accepted the BJP's victory. Malviya shared the audio of Prashant Kishor's discussion on the ClubHouse platform on social media. In this, Kishor is chatting with some journalists.

In a public chat on ClubHouse, Mamata Banerjee's election strategist concedes that even in TMC's internal surveys, BJP is winning. The vote is for Modi, polarisation is a reality, the SCs (27 per cent of WB's population), Matuas are all voting for the BJP, Amit Malviya- National in-charge of BJP's Information &amp; Technology department wrote in his tweet.

In the audio, Kishor is saying that on a public chat at the clubHouse, Prashant Kishor admitted that BJP is winning in TMC's internal survey too. People are voting for Modi and polarization has taken place. SC and Matua, 27 per cent of Bengal's population all voted for the BJP.

Another candid admission by Kishor is that -- all that the Left, Congress and TMC ecosystem have done in the last 20 years is Muslim appeasement. The implication,&nbsp;It has resulted in resentment on the ground. The speakers had not realised that the chat was public, Malviya wrote.

That moment when Mamata Banerjee's strategist realised that the ClubHouse room was open and his admissions were being heard by the public at large and not just a handful of Lutyens journalist. Deafening silence followed, Malviya added.

Prashant Kishor was immediate to react. "I am happy that the people of BJP are taking my clubHouse chat more seriously than the statements of their leaders. I appeal to them to release the entire conversation except for some part of the chat. In the part that has been released, the question was being answered about how BJP is getting 40 per cent votes and how it has been thinking that the BJP is winning. He also said through social media that the BJP will not be able to cross the 100 mark in Bengal elections" Kishore tweeted.

A political controversy erupted in West Bengal during the fourth phase of the elections when BJP's IT cell released an audiotape of Trinamool' election strategist Prashant Kishor where he was heard saying a 'ClubHouse' chat that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is hugely popular in West Bengal and this is one of the factors that will decide which party sweeps the state.

A political controversy erupted in West Bengal during the fourth phase of the elections when BJP's IT cell released an audiotape of Trinamool' election strategist Prashant Kishor where he was heard saying a 'ClubHouse' chat that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is hugely popular in West Bengal and this is one of the factors that will decide which party sweeps the state. BJP's IT cell chief Amit Malviya claimed that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's election strategist Prashant Kishor had accepted the BJP's victory. Malviya shared the audio of Prashant Kishor's discussion on the ClubHouse platform on social media. In this, Kishor is chatting with some journalists. In a public chat on ClubHouse, Mamata Banerjee's election strategist concedes that even in TMC's internal surveys, BJP is winning. The vote is for Modi, polarisation is a reality, the SCs (27 per cent of WB's population), Matuas are all voting for the BJP, Amit Malviya- National in-charge of BJP's Information & Technology department wrote in his tweet. In the audio, Kishor is saying that on a public chat at the clubHouse, Prashant Kishor admitted that BJP is winning in TMC's internal survey too. People are voting for Modi and polarization has taken place. SC and Matua, 27 per cent of Bengal's population all voted for the BJP. Another candid admission by Kishor is that -- all that the Left, Congress and TMC ecosystem have done in the last 20 years is Muslim appeasement. The implication, It has resulted in resentment on the ground. The speakers had not realised that the chat was public, Malviya wrote. That moment when Mamata Banerjee's strategist realised that the ClubHouse room was open and his admissions were being heard by the public at large and not just a handful of Lutyens journalist. Deafening silence followed, Malviya added. Prashant Kishor was immediate to react. "I am happy that the people of BJP are taking my clubHouse chat more seriously than the statements of their leaders. I appeal to them to release the entire conversation except for some part of the chat. In the part that has been released, the question was being answered about how BJP is getting 40 per cent votes and how it has been thinking that the BJP is winning. He also said through social media that the BJP will not be able to cross the 100 mark in Bengal elections" Kishore tweeted.

West Bengal: BJP shares audio chat of Prashant Kishor praising PM Modi

Assam recorded a voter turnout of 73.03 per cent on Thursday, while the figure stood at 80.53 per cent for West Bengal in the second phase of assembly polls in the two states.

The Election Commission said these figures were till 5 pm.

The second phase of polls in the two states were held peacefully across 21,212 polling stations spread over 69 assembly constituencies, it said.

"The voter turnout reported by 5 pm from the 39 assembly constituencies of phase 2 in Assam is 73.03 per cent. The poll percentage reported from the 30 assembly constituencies of phase 2 in West Bengal is 80.43 per cent as of 5 pm," the Commission said in a statement.

It said the "non-functioning rate" of electronic voting machines during the poll is lesser than experienced in last few polls.

During this phase, a total of 10,620 ballot units, and an equal number of control units and VVPATs were used in West Bengal.

In Assam, 10,819 ballot units, 10,592 control units and as many VVPATs were used.

One control unit, at least one ballot unit and one VVPAT form one EVM.

The poll panel later said 55 ballot units, 54 control units and 169 VVPATs were replaced in Assam during polling.

In West Bengal, 43 BUs and CUs each were replaced. A total of 192 VVPATs were replaced during polling on Thursday.

During the ongoing elections till the second phase, a record seizure of Rs. 366.09 crore have been made from both the states.

The seizure figure, which includes cash, liquor, narcotics and freebies, is more than six times the total combined seizure of Rs 60.91 crore in assembly elections of 2016, the statement said.

A total number of 1,306 cases of Model Code of Conduct violations were reported through the cVIGIL app from Assam out of which 927 were disposed as of 4.30 pm. Similarly, 14,499 cases were reported from West Bengal with 11,630 being disposed till 4.30 pm.&nbsp;

Assam recorded a voter turnout of 73.03 per cent on Thursday, while the figure stood at 80.53 per cent for West Bengal in the second phase of assembly polls in the two states.

Assam recorded a voter turnout of 73.03 per cent on Thursday, while the figure stood at 80.53 per cent for West Bengal in the second phase of assembly polls in the two states. The Election Commission said these figures were till 5 pm. The second phase of polls in the two states were held peacefully across 21,212 polling stations spread over 69 assembly constituencies, it said. "The voter turnout reported by 5 pm from the 39 assembly constituencies of phase 2 in Assam is 73.03 per cent. The poll percentage reported from the 30 assembly constituencies of phase 2 in West Bengal is 80.43 per cent as of 5 pm," the Commission said in a statement. It said the "non-functioning rate" of electronic voting machines during the poll is lesser than experienced in last few polls. During this phase, a total of 10,620 ballot units, and an equal number of control units and VVPATs were used in West Bengal. In Assam, 10,819 ballot units, 10,592 control units and as many VVPATs were used. One control unit, at least one ballot unit and one VVPAT form one EVM. The poll panel later said 55 ballot units, 54 control units and 169 VVPATs were replaced in Assam during polling. In West Bengal, 43 BUs and CUs each were replaced. A total of 192 VVPATs were replaced during polling on Thursday. During the ongoing elections till the second phase, a record seizure of Rs. 366.09 crore have been made from both the states. The seizure figure, which includes cash, liquor, narcotics and freebies, is more than six times the total combined seizure of Rs 60.91 crore in assembly elections of 2016, the statement said. A total number of 1,306 cases of Model Code of Conduct violations were reported through the cVIGIL app from Assam out of which 927 were disposed as of 4.30 pm. Similarly, 14,499 cases were reported from West Bengal with 11,630 being disposed till 4.30 pm.

Second phase polls: 80.53 per cent turnout in Bengal, 73.03 per cent in Assam till 5 pm

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday filed her nomination for Nandigram assembly seat, where she will take on her former protege and BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari and exuded confidence of winning it saying she has never returned empty-handed from the land of anti-farm land acquisition movement.

Accompanied by TMC president Subrata Bakshi, Banerjee filed her papers at the Haldia sub-divisional office here after taking part in a 2-km roadshow. She offered prayers at a temple before filing her nomination, and at another after doing so.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-releases-tmc-list-for-291-assembly-seats-368207">Mamata Banerjee releases TMC list for 291 assembly seats</a>

"I am confident about my victory from the Nandigram assembly seat. I could have easily contested from Bhawanipur seat (which she represents).

"When I had visited Nandigram in January, there was no MLA from here as the sitting MLA had resigned. I looked at the faces of the common people and decided to contest from here," she said after filing her paper.

Deputy chairman of East Midnapore zilla parishad Sheikh Sufiyan has been appointed as Banerjee's election agent.

"I have never returned empty-handed from here. Nandigram is not just a name, it is the name of a movement. Bhulte pari sobar naam, bhulbo nako Nandigram (I can forget everyone's name, but can never forget Nandigram). That's the significance of this place for me," the TMC supremo said.

Banerjee said that she had made up her mind this time to contest either from the Singur or Nandigram - the cradles of the anti-farm land acquisition movement which had catapulted her to power in 2011.

"My feeling is very clear - no one can divide this place along religious lines. During the Nandigram movement all the communities had participated in it. Those who are lecturing now about its legacy were nowhere when violence was unleashed here. I was fighting alone," she said.

The feisty TMC chief will contest from Nandigram for the first time after relinquishing her Bhowanipore constituency in Kolkata.

She has rented a house in Nandigram and will campaign from there.

Nandigram assembly constituency is set for a high octane battle with Banerjee deciding to contest from the seat against Adhikari, who recently switched over to the saffron camp.

Adhikari, who will file his nomination paper for the seat on a later date, called her an "outsider" to Nandigram and himself a "bhoomiputra" (son of the soil).

He had won the Nandigram seat in the 2016 assembly poll, while another TMC candidate emerged victorious from the constituency in 2011.

Adhikari had quit TMC and resigned from the assembly late last year to join BJP following differences with the state's ruling party.

Both the leaders were prominent figures in the anti-farm land acquisition movement in Nandigram in 2007 that had catapulted Banerjee to power in West Bengal in 2011 ending the 34-year-long rule of the Left Front.

The little-known rural area, which had witnessed one of the bloodiest movements against the government's acquisition of cultivable land for industrialisation, had then changed the political landscape of West Bengal.

Now after more than a decade of peace, Nandigram, home to 70 per cent Hindus and 30 per cent Muslims, is witnessing political and communal polarisation.

The Muslims are firmly behind TMC that has controlled the area for the last 15 years.

The constituency mainly comprises two blocks -- Nandigram I and Nandigram II -- with the first having 30 per minority population and the second almost 15 per cent.

Election in Nandigram is slated to be held on April 1.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday filed her nomination for Nandigram assembly seat, where she will take on her former protege and BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari and exuded confidence of winning it saying she has never returned empty-handed from the land of anti-farm land acquisition movement.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday filed her nomination for Nandigram assembly seat, where she will take on her former protege and BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari and exuded confidence of winning it saying she has never returned empty-handed from the land of anti-farm land acquisition movement. Accompanied by TMC president Subrata Bakshi, Banerjee filed her papers at the Haldia sub-divisional office here after taking part in a 2-km roadshow. She offered prayers at a temple before filing her nomination, and at another after doing so. Also read | Mamata Banerjee releases TMC list for 291 assembly seats "I am confident about my victory from the Nandigram assembly seat. I could have easily contested from Bhawanipur seat (which she represents). "When I had visited Nandigram in January, there was no MLA from here as the sitting MLA had resigned. I looked at the faces of the common people and decided to contest from here," she said after filing her paper. Deputy chairman of East Midnapore zilla parishad Sheikh Sufiyan has been appointed as Banerjee's election agent. "I have never returned empty-handed from here. Nandigram is not just a name, it is the name of a movement. Bhulte pari sobar naam, bhulbo nako Nandigram (I can forget everyone's name, but can never forget Nandigram). That's the significance of this place for me," the TMC supremo said. Banerjee said that she had made up her mind this time to contest either from the Singur or Nandigram - the cradles of the anti-farm land acquisition movement which had catapulted her to power in 2011. "My feeling is very clear - no one can divide this place along religious lines. During the Nandigram movement all the communities had participated in it. Those who are lecturing now about its legacy were nowhere when violence was unleashed here. I was fighting alone," she said. The feisty TMC chief will contest from Nandigram for the first time after relinquishing her Bhowanipore constituency in Kolkata. She has rented a house in Nandigram and will campaign from there. Nandigram assembly constituency is set for a high octane battle with Banerjee deciding to contest from the seat against Adhikari, who recently switched over to the saffron camp. Adhikari, who will file his nomination paper for the seat on a later date, called her an "outsider" to Nandigram and himself a "bhoomiputra" (son of the soil). He had won the Nandigram seat in the 2016 assembly poll, while another TMC candidate emerged victorious from the constituency in 2011. Adhikari had quit TMC and resigned from the assembly late last year to join BJP following differences with the state's ruling party. Both the leaders were prominent figures in the anti-farm land acquisition movement in Nandigram in 2007 that had catapulted Banerjee to power in West Bengal in 2011 ending the 34-year-long rule of the Left Front. The little-known rural area, which had witnessed one of the bloodiest movements against the government's acquisition of cultivable land for industrialisation, had then changed the political landscape of West Bengal. Now after more than a decade of peace, Nandigram, home to 70 per cent Hindus and 30 per cent Muslims, is witnessing political and communal polarisation. The Muslims are firmly behind TMC that has controlled the area for the last 15 years. The constituency mainly comprises two blocks -- Nandigram I and Nandigram II -- with the first having 30 per minority population and the second almost 15 per cent. Election in Nandigram is slated to be held on April 1.

Mamata files nomination from Nandigram, exudes confidence of winning the seat 

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Friday released the list of Trinamool Congress candidates for the upcoming assembly polls for 291 seats with emphasis on youths, minority, women and backward communities.

Three candidates of the Bimal Gurung faction of Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM), an ally of the TMC, will be contesting from the remaining three seats in Darjeeling.

"This time we have stressed on more youths and women candidates. Around 23-24 sitting MLAS have been dropped and there are names of about 50 women, 42 Muslims, 79 SC and 17 ST candidates in the list," Banerjee said.

Exuding confidence in returning to power for the third consecutive time, Banerjee termed it as the "easiest" election the TMC has ever faced.

"After we come to power we will create Vidhan Parishad to accommodate senior and experienced leaders. We could not accommodate everybody especially those above the age of 80 years," she said.

"I will be contesting from Nandigram, my party colleague Sovandeb Chattopadhyay will be contesting from Bhawanipore seat," she said.

Banerjee also challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to deploy as much central force as it wants but the TMC will still emerge victorious.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Friday released the list of Trinamool Congress candidates for the upcoming assembly polls for 291 seats with emphasis on youths, minority, women and backward communities.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Friday released the list of Trinamool Congress candidates for the upcoming assembly polls for 291 seats with emphasis on youths, minority, women and backward communities. Three candidates of the Bimal Gurung faction of Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM), an ally of the TMC, will be contesting from the remaining three seats in Darjeeling. "This time we have stressed on more youths and women candidates. Around 23-24 sitting MLAS have been dropped and there are names of about 50 women, 42 Muslims, 79 SC and 17 ST candidates in the list," Banerjee said. Exuding confidence in returning to power for the third consecutive time, Banerjee termed it as the "easiest" election the TMC has ever faced. "After we come to power we will create Vidhan Parishad to accommodate senior and experienced leaders. We could not accommodate everybody especially those above the age of 80 years," she said. "I will be contesting from Nandigram, my party colleague Sovandeb Chattopadhyay will be contesting from Bhawanipore seat," she said. Banerjee also challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to deploy as much central force as it wants but the TMC will still emerge victorious.

Mamata Banerjee releases TMC list for 291 assembly seats

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