The Election Commission on Friday announced the election dates for 824 assembly constituencies that will go to polls in four states and one union territory.

Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said that West Bengal will go to polls in 8 phases and Assam in three phases while Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry will have a single-phase election.&nbsp;

As many as 18.68 crore voters will be eligible to cast their votes at 2.7 lakh polling stations for 824 assembly seats across Assam, West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.

The elections for the five assemblies are expected to witness a determined attempt by the BJP to put a strong show, including in Assam where it is already in power, as well as in West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry where the saffron party has been pushing hard in recent years.

Elections in Assam will be conducted in three phases on March 27, April 1 and April 6, while polling in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry will take place in a single phase on April 6.

Elections for the West Bengal assembly will be held in eight phases, up from seven last time, beginning with polling for 30 seats on March 27, Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said while announcing the poll schedule.

The second phase of West Bengal's assembly elections has been scheduled for April 1 and will cover 30 constituencies, followed by the third phase on April 6 for 31 seats, the fourth on April 10 for 44 constituencies, the fifth on April 17 for 45 seats, sixth for 43 seats on April 22, seventh phase on April 26 for 36 seats and last and eighth phase on April 29 for 35 seats, Arora said.

The Election Commission will appoint two special observers for West Bengal and a third can also be sent if required, Arora said in response to queries on whether enough arrangements are in place for the polls in the state, where many have been raising questions about political violence.

Arora also said everyone on election duty for the upcoming polls will?be vaccinated against COVID-19 before polling day.

Voting will take place for 126 seats in Assam, 234 in Tamil Nadu, 294 in West Bengal, 140 in Kerala and 30 in Puducherry.

Arrangements will be put in place for candidates to file their nominations online. Voting will be allowed for an additional hour, keeping in mind COVID-19 safety guidelines, he said.

Also, webcasting arrangements will be in place at polling stations in critical and vulnerable areas, while adequate CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) deployment will be ensured, Arora said. All critical and vulnerable areas have been identified and advance teams have been already deployed across the four states and one union territory, he added.

He said door-to-door campaigning will be restricted to five persons, including the candidate, while roadshows will be allowed with a maximum of five vehicles.

According to Arora, the nationwide vaccination drive has made the situation more conducive for conducting elections and the Health Ministry has declared everyone on poll duty as frontline workers for vaccination purposes.

All poll officials will be vaccinated before the elections, Arora said.

Arora, who will demit office on April 13, also said all must be congratulated for the successful conduct of elections in Bihar last year despite the COVID-19 challenges and he is confident of success once again.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Election Commission on Friday announced the election dates for 824 assembly constituencies that will go to polls in four states and one union territory. Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said that West Bengal will go to polls in 8 phases and Assam in three phases while Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry will have a single-phase election.

The Election Commission on Friday announced the election dates for 824 assembly constituencies that will go to polls in four states and one union territory. Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said that West Bengal will go to polls in 8 phases and Assam in three phases while Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry will have a single-phase election. As many as 18.68 crore voters will be eligible to cast their votes at 2.7 lakh polling stations for 824 assembly seats across Assam, West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. The elections for the five assemblies are expected to witness a determined attempt by the BJP to put a strong show, including in Assam where it is already in power, as well as in West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry where the saffron party has been pushing hard in recent years. Elections in Assam will be conducted in three phases on March 27, April 1 and April 6, while polling in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry will take place in a single phase on April 6. Elections for the West Bengal assembly will be held in eight phases, up from seven last time, beginning with polling for 30 seats on March 27, Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said while announcing the poll schedule. The second phase of West Bengal's assembly elections has been scheduled for April 1 and will cover 30 constituencies, followed by the third phase on April 6 for 31 seats, the fourth on April 10 for 44 constituencies, the fifth on April 17 for 45 seats, sixth for 43 seats on April 22, seventh phase on April 26 for 36 seats and last and eighth phase on April 29 for 35 seats, Arora said. The Election Commission will appoint two special observers for West Bengal and a third can also be sent if required, Arora said in response to queries on whether enough arrangements are in place for the polls in the state, where many have been raising questions about political violence. Arora also said everyone on election duty for the upcoming polls will?be vaccinated against COVID-19 before polling day. Voting will take place for 126 seats in Assam, 234 in Tamil Nadu, 294 in West Bengal, 140 in Kerala and 30 in Puducherry. Arrangements will be put in place for candidates to file their nominations online. Voting will be allowed for an additional hour, keeping in mind COVID-19 safety guidelines, he said. Also, webcasting arrangements will be in place at polling stations in critical and vulnerable areas, while adequate CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) deployment will be ensured, Arora said. All critical and vulnerable areas have been identified and advance teams have been already deployed across the four states and one union territory, he added. He said door-to-door campaigning will be restricted to five persons, including the candidate, while roadshows will be allowed with a maximum of five vehicles. According to Arora, the nationwide vaccination drive has made the situation more conducive for conducting elections and the Health Ministry has declared everyone on poll duty as frontline workers for vaccination purposes. All poll officials will be vaccinated before the elections, Arora said. Arora, who will demit office on April 13, also said all must be congratulated for the successful conduct of elections in Bihar last year despite the COVID-19 challenges and he is confident of success once again. (With inputs from agencies)

Voting in West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Assam and Puducherry between March 27 and April 29, results on May 2

A state minister seriously got injured after perpetrators hurled a crude bomb at him in a railway station in the eastern Indian state of West Bengal late on Wednesday.

Jakir Hossain and two other leaders of ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) were injured in the bomb attack at Nimtita railway station in Murshidabad district.&nbsp;

The minister is hospitalised in the SSKM Hospital's Trauma Care Unit, state minister Firhad Hakim said.

He also said that a medical board has been constituted to look into the health condition of Hossain.&nbsp;

A senior police officer confirmed that the probe has been handed over to CID, reports news agency PTI. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"The investigation has been handed over to the CID. A team of forensic experts have visited the spot this morning," the police officer said.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee after visiting his party's leader at the hospital alleged that the attack was "pre-planned" and was a "conspiracy".

She also said that Hossain was being pressurised in the last few months to join another party.&nbsp;

"It was a preplanned attack on minister Jakir Hossain. Some people have claimed the blast was remote controlled. It is a conspiracy. Some people (party) were pressuring Jakir Hossian to join them for the last few months. I don't want to disclose anything more as investigation is on," the West Bengal CM told reporters.

She also announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh (about USD 6,870) for those seriously injured in the explosion and Rs 1 lakh (about USD 1,374) who received minor injuries.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

A state minister seriously got injured after perpetrators hurled a crude bomb at him in a railway station in the eastern Indian state of West Bengal late on Wednesday.

A state minister seriously got injured after perpetrators hurled a crude bomb at him in a railway station in the eastern Indian state of West Bengal late on Wednesday. Jakir Hossain and two other leaders of ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) were injured in the bomb attack at Nimtita railway station in Murshidabad district. The minister is hospitalised in the SSKM Hospital's Trauma Care Unit, state minister Firhad Hakim said. He also said that a medical board has been constituted to look into the health condition of Hossain. A senior police officer confirmed that the probe has been handed over to CID, reports news agency PTI. "The investigation has been handed over to the CID. A team of forensic experts have visited the spot this morning," the police officer said. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee after visiting his party's leader at the hospital alleged that the attack was "pre-planned" and was a "conspiracy". She also said that Hossain was being pressurised in the last few months to join another party. "It was a preplanned attack on minister Jakir Hossain. Some people have claimed the blast was remote controlled. It is a conspiracy. Some people (party) were pressuring Jakir Hossian to join them for the last few months. I don't want to disclose anything more as investigation is on," the West Bengal CM told reporters. She also announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh (about USD 6,870) for those seriously injured in the explosion and Rs 1 lakh (about USD 1,374) who received minor injuries.

West Bengal minister seriously injured in bomb blast, CM says attack 'pre-planned'

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday accused Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>of trying to mislead the people with half-truth and distorted facts over the non-implementation of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme in the state.

She claimed that the prime minister showed his apparent concern for the farmers through a televised address, instead of proactively working to resolve their issues.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-lashes-out-at-mamata-banerjee-over-centres-scheme-for-farmers-352309">PM Narendra Modi lashes out at Mamata Banerjee over centre's scheme for farmers</a>

"While he (PM Modi) publicly claimed his intention to help farmers of WB (West Bengal) through his PM Kisan Yojana and alleges non-cooperation of the state government, the fact is that he is trying to mislead the people with half-truth and distorted facts," Banerjee said in a statement.

The prime minister lashed out at the West Bengal chief minister, accusing her government of "destroying" the state and depriving its over 70 lakh farmers of benefits from the Centre's flagship PM-KISAN scheme under which Rs 6,000 per year is given to each farmer.

Banerjee said that her government has always been ready to cooperate in the interest of the farmers.

Maintaining that she has written two letters to Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar and has even spoken to him two days ago, the chief minister said, "they are refusing to cooperate and are instead indulging in malicious propaganda for political gains".

Banerjee said that when the state is implementing so many schemes with the central government, the question of not cooperating on a scheme that is benefitting farmers seems absurd.

She wrote to Tomar on Monday, reiterating the state's request to route the PM-KISAN funds through the West Bengal government for disbursal among the farmers.

She had earlier written to the agriculture minister in September with the same proposal.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme, a financial benefit of Rs 6,000 per year is provided to small and marginal farmers, payable in three equal instalments of Rs 2,000 each.

The fund is transferred directly to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries.

"Today I regret that more than 70 lakh farmers in West Bengal have not been able to get benefits of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi. More than 23 lakh farmers of Bengal have applied online to take advantage of this scheme. But the state government has stopped the verification process for so long," Modi said addressing a virtual event after releasing over Rs 18,000 crore to more than nine crore farmer families under PM-KISAN.

Denying the accusations of the prime minister, Banerjee alleged that the BJP-led Union government is used to indulging in politicking even at the cost of violating the established practices and norms regarding the implementation of central schemes by state governments.

Claiming that the Modi government has done nothing to help West Bengal, she said that the Centre is "yet to release even a portion of the Rs 85,000 crores of outstanding dues that includes unpaid GST dues of Rs 8,000 crores".

The chief minister said that if Modi genuinely wants to help West Bengal, he must release at least a part of these funds so that the state is in a better position to address its needs.

Assembly elections are likely in West Bengal in April-May next year and the BJP has launched a massive campaign to unseat the Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government in the state.

Stating that lakhs of farmers are protesting on the roads demanding the withdrawal of the new farm laws, Banerjee claimed that these enactments are anti-farmer as these "threaten to dilute the MSP, the state procurement system, and take away the basic protective mechanisms of the farmers, hence leaving them at the mercy of big private players".

Banerjee claimed that in the interest of the people of Bengal, her government will do everything that is needed on its part.

"Even if it means supporting schemes of central government that are purely meant to further their political agenda, are at odds with the spirit of federalism, and are definitely not guided by their desire to help the people at large; so long it ensures even incremental benefit for the people of Bengal," the chief minister said in her statement.

In his address, the prime minister said, "Mamata Banerjee's ideology has destroyed the state and her actions are against the farmers."

Banerjee asserted that her ideology is consistent with the vision of the founding fathers of the country, and that she has wholeheartedly served the people of West Bengal with the right intent, efforts and with everything she has.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of trying to mislead the people with half-truth and distorted facts over the non-implementation of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme in the state.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of trying to mislead the people with half-truth and distorted facts over the non-implementation of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme in the state. She claimed that the prime minister showed his apparent concern for the farmers through a televised address, instead of proactively working to resolve their issues. Also read | PM Narendra Modi lashes out at Mamata Banerjee over centre's scheme for farmers "While he (PM Modi) publicly claimed his intention to help farmers of WB (West Bengal) through his PM Kisan Yojana and alleges non-cooperation of the state government, the fact is that he is trying to mislead the people with half-truth and distorted facts," Banerjee said in a statement. The prime minister lashed out at the West Bengal chief minister, accusing her government of "destroying" the state and depriving its over 70 lakh farmers of benefits from the Centre's flagship PM-KISAN scheme under which Rs 6,000 per year is given to each farmer. Banerjee said that her government has always been ready to cooperate in the interest of the farmers. Maintaining that she has written two letters to Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar and has even spoken to him two days ago, the chief minister said, "they are refusing to cooperate and are instead indulging in malicious propaganda for political gains". Banerjee said that when the state is implementing so many schemes with the central government, the question of not cooperating on a scheme that is benefitting farmers seems absurd. She wrote to Tomar on Monday, reiterating the state's request to route the PM-KISAN funds through the West Bengal government for disbursal among the farmers. She had earlier written to the agriculture minister in September with the same proposal. Under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme, a financial benefit of Rs 6,000 per year is provided to small and marginal farmers, payable in three equal instalments of Rs 2,000 each. The fund is transferred directly to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries. "Today I regret that more than 70 lakh farmers in West Bengal have not been able to get benefits of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi. More than 23 lakh farmers of Bengal have applied online to take advantage of this scheme. But the state government has stopped the verification process for so long," Modi said addressing a virtual event after releasing over Rs 18,000 crore to more than nine crore farmer families under PM-KISAN. Denying the accusations of the prime minister, Banerjee alleged that the BJP-led Union government is used to indulging in politicking even at the cost of violating the established practices and norms regarding the implementation of central schemes by state governments. Claiming that the Modi government has done nothing to help West Bengal, she said that the Centre is "yet to release even a portion of the Rs 85,000 crores of outstanding dues that includes unpaid GST dues of Rs 8,000 crores". The chief minister said that if Modi genuinely wants to help West Bengal, he must release at least a part of these funds so that the state is in a better position to address its needs. Assembly elections are likely in West Bengal in April-May next year and the BJP has launched a massive campaign to unseat the Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government in the state. Stating that lakhs of farmers are protesting on the roads demanding the withdrawal of the new farm laws, Banerjee claimed that these enactments are anti-farmer as these "threaten to dilute the MSP, the state procurement system, and take away the basic protective mechanisms of the farmers, hence leaving them at the mercy of big private players". Banerjee claimed that in the interest of the people of Bengal, her government will do everything that is needed on its part. "Even if it means supporting schemes of central government that are purely meant to further their political agenda, are at odds with the spirit of federalism, and are definitely not guided by their desire to help the people at large; so long it ensures even incremental benefit for the people of Bengal," the chief minister said in her statement. In his address, the prime minister said, "Mamata Banerjee's ideology has destroyed the state and her actions are against the farmers." Banerjee asserted that her ideology is consistent with the vision of the founding fathers of the country, and that she has wholeheartedly served the people of West Bengal with the right intent, efforts and with everything she has.

PM Modi trying to mislead people with distorted facts: Mamata Banerjee

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>on Friday slammed West Bengal government for not implementing centre's scheme for farmers under which they are being provided Rs 6,000 (USD 82) every year.&nbsp;

Modi said about 70 lakh (7 million) farmers in the state are not given benefits of the 'Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi' (PM-KISAN) scheme despite the scheme being fully funded by the Centre.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-releases-over-rs-18000-crore-for-around-9-crore-farmers-352269">PM Narendra Modi releases over Rs 18,000 crore for around 9 crore farmers</a>

"Around 70 lakh (7 million) farmers of West Bengal are not getting the benefit of this scheme, which is fully funded by the Centre. Bengal is the only state which is not allowing benefits of the schemes to reach the farmers," Modi was quoted as saying by The Indian Express while addressing a virtual event.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-assembly-election-congress-announces-alliance-with-left-parties-352080">West Bengal assembly election: Congress announces alliance with left parties</a>

He also said that Bengal's CM Mamata Banerjee has "destroyed" the state and said her government is playing politics against their own farmers.&nbsp;

"Mamata Banerjee govt has destroyed West Bengal, they're playing politics by stopping benefits for their own farmers. Her actions against the farmers have hurt me a lot. Why is the Opposition quiet on this?" asked Modi.&nbsp;

Modi also expressed surprise that while there have been massive protests against the farm bills, no such demonstration was visible in West Bengal for not implementing PM-KISAN scheme.&nbsp;

"Why there was no protest for ensuring PM-KISAN money," the prime minister asked.&nbsp;

"If you listen to 15 years old speech of Mamta, then you will know how much this ideology has ruined Bengal."

Modi also said that 23 lakh (2.3 million) farmers in the state applied for the scheme, but the West Bengal government took too long to complete the verification process.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday slammed West Bengal government for not implementing centre's scheme for farmers under which they are being provided Rs 6,000 (USD 82) every year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday slammed West Bengal government for not implementing centre's scheme for farmers under which they are being provided Rs 6,000 (USD 82) every year. Modi said about 70 lakh (7 million) farmers in the state are not given benefits of the 'Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi' (PM-KISAN) scheme despite the scheme being fully funded by the Centre. Also read | PM Narendra Modi releases over Rs 18,000 crore for around 9 crore farmers "Around 70 lakh (7 million) farmers of West Bengal are not getting the benefit of this scheme, which is fully funded by the Centre. Bengal is the only state which is not allowing benefits of the schemes to reach the farmers," Modi was quoted as saying by The Indian Express while addressing a virtual event. Also read | West Bengal assembly election: Congress announces alliance with left parties He also said that Bengal's CM Mamata Banerjee has "destroyed" the state and said her government is playing politics against their own farmers. "Mamata Banerjee govt has destroyed West Bengal, they're playing politics by stopping benefits for their own farmers. Her actions against the farmers have hurt me a lot. Why is the Opposition quiet on this?" asked Modi. Modi also expressed surprise that while there have been massive protests against the farm bills, no such demonstration was visible in West Bengal for not implementing PM-KISAN scheme. "Why there was no protest for ensuring PM-KISAN money," the prime minister asked. "If you listen to 15 years old speech of Mamta, then you will know how much this ideology has ruined Bengal." Modi also said that 23 lakh (2.3 million) farmers in the state applied for the scheme, but the West Bengal government took too long to complete the verification process.

PM Narendra Modi lashes out at Mamata Banerjee over centre's scheme for farmers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee whose policies he said were&nbsp;stopping state farmers from taking benefit of PM-KISAN scheme. The scheme is central government's flagship scheme. He was addressing a virtual event after releasing over Rs 18,000 crore to more than nine crore farmer families under 'Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi' (PM-KISAN)

Under the PM-KISAN scheme, a financial benefit of Rs 6,000 per year is provided to small and marginal farmers, payable in three equal instalments of Rs 2,000 each. The fund is transferred directly to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries.

During his address Modi wondered why protests were not visible against West Bengal's decision of not implementing the scheme while there were agitations against the new farmer bills.

He said the entire country is benefiting from the PM-KISAN programme, but only one state, West Bengal, has not implemented this scheme.

As a result, over 70 lakh farmers are not able to take benefit of this scheme and this money is not reaching them, he said, adding that this is because of political reasons.

Modi said more than 23 lakh West Bengal farmers have applied online to take advantage of this scheme, but the state government has stopped the verification process for&nbsp;a long.

"Why there was no protest for ensuring PM-KISAN money," he said.

"If you listen to 15 years old speech of Mamta Ji, then you will know how much this ideology has ruined Bengal," he said.

Modi said everyone knows how the state has been ruined by the political ideology of those who ruled there for decades.

"The public is watching those doing selfish politics very closely. The parties that do not speak on the benefit of farmers in West Bengal are engaged in harassing the citizens of Delhi here in the name of the farmers and are ruining the economy of the country," he said.

(With PTI inputs)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee whose policies he said were stopping state farmers from taking benefit of PM-KISAN scheme.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee whose policies he said were stopping state farmers from taking benefit of PM-KISAN scheme. The scheme is central government's flagship scheme. He was addressing a virtual event after releasing over Rs 18,000 crore to more than nine crore farmer families under 'Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi' (PM-KISAN) Under the PM-KISAN scheme, a financial benefit of Rs 6,000 per year is provided to small and marginal farmers, payable in three equal instalments of Rs 2,000 each. The fund is transferred directly to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries. During his address Modi wondered why protests were not visible against West Bengal's decision of not implementing the scheme while there were agitations against the new farmer bills. He said the entire country is benefiting from the PM-KISAN programme, but only one state, West Bengal, has not implemented this scheme. As a result, over 70 lakh farmers are not able to take benefit of this scheme and this money is not reaching them, he said, adding that this is because of political reasons. Modi said more than 23 lakh West Bengal farmers have applied online to take advantage of this scheme, but the state government has stopped the verification process for a long. "Why there was no protest for ensuring PM-KISAN money," he said. "If you listen to 15 years old speech of Mamta Ji, then you will know how much this ideology has ruined Bengal," he said. Modi said everyone knows how the state has been ruined by the political ideology of those who ruled there for decades. "The public is watching those doing selfish politics very closely. The parties that do not speak on the benefit of farmers in West Bengal are engaged in harassing the citizens of Delhi here in the name of the farmers and are ruining the economy of the country," he said. (With PTI inputs)

PM Modi accuses Mamata Banerjee of blocking benefits for farmers

The Congress has formally given a go-ahead to an alliance with left parties for the upcoming assembly election in the eastern state of West Bengal.&nbsp;

Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, Congress's Bengal chief, confirmed the alliance on Thursday on Twitter.&nbsp;

"Today the Congress high command has formally approved the electoral alliance with the Left parties in the impending election of West Bengal," Chowdhury tweeted.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Today the Congress High command has formally approved the electoral alliance with the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Left?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Left</a> parties in the impending election of West Bengal.<a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@INCIndia</a><a href="https://twitter.com/INCWestBengal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@INCWestBengal</a>
— Adhir Chowdhury (@adhirrcinc) <a href="https://twitter.com/adhirrcinc/status/1342028521372147714?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, the left parties and India's Grand Old Party tried to form an alliance for the Lok Sabha election (general election) 2019, but the talks failed post disagreements over seat-sharing.&nbsp;

However, both parties failed to make any impact in the last general election as the Left Front lost deposits in 39 constituencies and Congress secured two seats and lost deposits in 38 others.

BJP, on the other hand, made big inroads in West Bengal despite having a limited presence and was able to win 18 out of the 42 Lok Sabha seats, thereby becoming the main challenger of CM Mamata Banerjee's TMC.&nbsp;

The battle for West Bengal has already intensified with the BJP and ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) engaging in a war of words against each other.&nbsp;

The assembly election in the state is due next year in March-April.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Congress has formally given a go-ahead to an alliance with left parties for the upcoming assembly election in the eastern state of West Bengal. Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, Congress's Bengal chief, confirmed the alliance on Thursday on Twitter.

The Congress has formally given a go-ahead to an alliance with left parties for the upcoming assembly election in the eastern state of West Bengal. Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, Congress's Bengal chief, confirmed the alliance on Thursday on Twitter. "Today the Congress high command has formally approved the electoral alliance with the Left parties in the impending election of West Bengal," Chowdhury tweeted. Today the Congress High command has formally approved the electoral alliance with the #Left parties in the impending election of West Bengal.@INCIndia@INCWestBengal — Adhir Chowdhury (@adhirrcinc) December 24, 2020 × Earlier, the left parties and India's Grand Old Party tried to form an alliance for the Lok Sabha election (general election) 2019, but the talks failed post disagreements over seat-sharing. However, both parties failed to make any impact in the last general election as the Left Front lost deposits in 39 constituencies and Congress secured two seats and lost deposits in 38 others. BJP, on the other hand, made big inroads in West Bengal despite having a limited presence and was able to win 18 out of the 42 Lok Sabha seats, thereby becoming the main challenger of CM Mamata Banerjee's TMC. The battle for West Bengal has already intensified with the BJP and ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) engaging in a war of words against each other. The assembly election in the state is due next year in March-April.

West Bengal assembly election: Congress announces alliance with left parties

BJP President JP Nadda`s convoy was allegedly attacked on Thursday and several BJP leaders including Kailash Vijayvargiya were injured when protesters pelted stones at their vehicles at West Bengal`s Diamond Harbour.

"Mukul Roy and Kailash Vijayvargiya were injured in the attack today. It is a shame on democracy," Nadda said.

"There isn`t a car in our convoy which was not attacked. I am safe because I was travelling in a bulletproof car. This state of lawlessness and intolerance in West Bengal has to end," Nadda said while speaking at a public meeting at South 24 Paraganas in WestBengal.

BJP leader Kailash Vijayvargiya was on his way to South 24 Paraganas and alleged that Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers pelted stones at his vehicle at West Bengal`s Diamond Harbour.The incident took place while he was on his way to South 24 Paraganas.&nbsp;

Protestors also attempted to block the road from where BJP President JP Nadda`s convoy was passing.

"Bengal Police has already got the information about BJP National President JP Nadda ji program. But once again the Bengal police failed. In front of the police near Siracol bus stand, TMC goons hit our workers and pelted stones at my car," Vijayvargiya tweeted.

BJP leader Sambit Patra also alleged that he along with some other leaders were attacked while they were travelling in a car.

"Our cars attacked in Bengal!! Window panes were broken. Shri Shivprakash ji, Shri Sanjay Mayukh ji and myself were travelling in this car. One karyakarta in our car is bleeding!! God save our lives!! Mamata Banerjee, is this democracy??" Patra tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Our cars attacked in Bengal!! 
Window panes broken 
Shri Shivprakash ji,Shri Sanjay Mayukh ji &amp; myself were travelling in this car. 
One karyakarta in our car is bleeding!! 
God save our lives!!<a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MamataOfficial</a> is this democracy?? <a href="https://t.co/Jt71XyDZzc">pic.twitter.com/Jt71XyDZzc</a>
— Sambit Patra (@sambitswaraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/sambitswaraj/status/1336933865877889024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar said that he is concerned at alarming reports of anarchy and lawlessness.

"Mamata Banerjee indicating ruling party harmads on rampage at BJP president convoy &amp; political police WB Police in support...I share my shame with you as it`s on account of your acts of omission &amp; commission," Governor tweeted.

BJP President JP Nadda`s convoy was allegedly attacked on Thursday and several BJP leaders including Kailash Vijayvargiya were injured when protesters pelted stones at their vehicles at West Bengal`s Diamond Harbour.

BJP President JP Nadda`s convoy was allegedly attacked on Thursday and several BJP leaders including Kailash Vijayvargiya were injured when protesters pelted stones at their vehicles at West Bengal`s Diamond Harbour. "Mukul Roy and Kailash Vijayvargiya were injured in the attack today. It is a shame on democracy," Nadda said. "There isn`t a car in our convoy which was not attacked. I am safe because I was travelling in a bulletproof car. This state of lawlessness and intolerance in West Bengal has to end," Nadda said while speaking at a public meeting at South 24 Paraganas in WestBengal. BJP leader Kailash Vijayvargiya was on his way to South 24 Paraganas and alleged that Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers pelted stones at his vehicle at West Bengal`s Diamond Harbour.The incident took place while he was on his way to South 24 Paraganas. Protestors also attempted to block the road from where BJP President JP Nadda`s convoy was passing. "Bengal Police has already got the information about BJP National President JP Nadda ji program. But once again the Bengal police failed. In front of the police near Siracol bus stand, TMC goons hit our workers and pelted stones at my car," Vijayvargiya tweeted. BJP leader Sambit Patra also alleged that he along with some other leaders were attacked while they were travelling in a car. "Our cars attacked in Bengal!! Window panes were broken. Shri Shivprakash ji, Shri Sanjay Mayukh ji and myself were travelling in this car. One karyakarta in our car is bleeding!! God save our lives!! Mamata Banerjee, is this democracy??" Patra tweeted. Our cars attacked in Bengal!! Window panes broken Shri Shivprakash ji,Shri Sanjay Mayukh ji & myself were travelling in this car. One karyakarta in our car is bleeding!! God save our lives!!@MamataOfficial is this democracy?? pic.twitter.com/Jt71XyDZzc — Sambit Patra (@sambitswaraj) December 10, 2020 × West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar said that he is concerned at alarming reports of anarchy and lawlessness. "Mamata Banerjee indicating ruling party harmads on rampage at BJP president convoy & political police WB Police in support...I share my shame with you as it`s on account of your acts of omission & commission," Governor tweeted.

BJP chief JP Nadda's convoy attacked in West Bengal

Bhabatarini Samanta from the eastern Indian state of West Bengal has more than one reason to be happy as she is geared up to celebrate her 100th birth anniversary.&nbsp;

Samanta, who is 99 years and 11 months old, was admitted on November 24 at a designated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>festival in Fuleswar area after she faced breathing difficulty and fever.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-over-36000-new-cases-confirmed-death-toll-tops-140000-347836">India: Over 36,000 new cases confirmed; death toll tops 140,000</a>

She has had various complications and a medical team was set up to assess her health condition, said Subhasis Mitra, director of the hospital.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pfizer-seeks-emergency-approval-for-covid-vaccine-in-india-347819">Pfizer seeks emergency approval for Covid vaccine in India</a>

"With time and care, she started recovering. We are delighted that we could make her free from Covid-19 and send her home in time for the 100th birthday, which is just a few days away," the director was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.&nbsp;

Samantha's family members and doctors are surprised at the recovery from the deadly virus which greatly affects the elderly.&nbsp;

Even though a month is left to mark the 100th birthday, the elderly woman received flowers and sweets and was greeted with songs by doctors, nurses and other medical staff as a gesture before she boarded an ambulance to return back home on Saturday.&nbsp;

The director of the hospital also said that the hospital has had over 4,000 coronavirus patients, out of which 3,700 have successfully recovered.&nbsp;

Bhabatarini Samanta from the eastern Indian state of West Bengal has more than one reason to be happy as she is geared up to celebrate her 100th birth anniversary.

Bhabatarini Samanta from the eastern Indian state of West Bengal has more than one reason to be happy as she is geared up to celebrate her 100th birth anniversary. Samanta, who is 99 years and 11 months old, was admitted on November 24 at a designated coronavirus festival in Fuleswar area after she faced breathing difficulty and fever. Also read | India: Over 36,000 new cases confirmed; death toll tops 140,000 She has had various complications and a medical team was set up to assess her health condition, said Subhasis Mitra, director of the hospital. Also read | Pfizer seeks emergency approval for Covid vaccine in India "With time and care, she started recovering. We are delighted that we could make her free from Covid-19 and send her home in time for the 100th birthday, which is just a few days away," the director was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. Samantha's family members and doctors are surprised at the recovery from the deadly virus which greatly affects the elderly. Even though a month is left to mark the 100th birthday, the elderly woman received flowers and sweets and was greeted with songs by doctors, nurses and other medical staff as a gesture before she boarded an ambulance to return back home on Saturday. The director of the hospital also said that the hospital has had over 4,000 coronavirus patients, out of which 3,700 have successfully recovered.

As woman gears up to mark 100th birthday, she beats Covid-19 to make celebrations grander

Two Durga Puja Pandals in India's West Bengal have decided to pay tribute to migrant workers of the country and their struggles amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

India: Two Durga Puja pandals in West Bengal depict migrant workers

The body of a BJP worker was found hanging from a tree in West Bengal's Hooghly district on Sunday, police said.

Ganesh Roy, a middle-aged BJP worker, was found hanging from a tree near his village in Khanati in the Goghat area, they said.

The BJP alleged he was murdered by members of the ruling Trinamool Congress, a charged denied by the state's ruling party.

Roy was missing since Saturday evening, police said, adding that the circumstances behind his death were being investigated.

State BJP president Dilip Ghosh alleged that Roy was murdered by the TMC and then his body was hanged from the tree around midnight to spread panic among his party's workers in the area.

"It has become a new trend to hang to death BJP workers. But we will launch a strong resistance. TMC is scared of the growing support for the BJP," he said.

The Trinamool Congress said their party members were not involved in the death of Roy.

Hooghly's BJP MP Locket Chatterjee said, "This brutality needs to stop. Where are the champions of democracy and why are they silent on these never ending killing of BJP workers in West Bengal?" BJP workers blocked the Goghat-Arambagh Road for some time in protest against the incident before being dispersed by police.

On July 28, a BJP booth president's body was found hanging in Haldia in East Midnapore district.

Before that incident, the body of BJP leader and Hemtabad MLA Debendra Nath Ray was also found hanging near his home in North Dinajpur district, amid allegations by his family and the party that it was a "cold-blooded murder by TMC", a charge again denied by the ruling party which said that he had died by suicide, citing the post mortem report.

Over the last few years, bodies of several BJP workers have been found hanging in different parts of the state.

The body of a BJP worker was found hanging from a tree in West Bengal's Hooghly district on Sunday, police said. Ganesh Roy, a middle-aged BJP worker, was found hanging from a tree near his village in Khanati in the Goghat area, they said.

The body of a BJP worker was found hanging from a tree in West Bengal's Hooghly district on Sunday, police said. Ganesh Roy, a middle-aged BJP worker, was found hanging from a tree near his village in Khanati in the Goghat area, they said. The BJP alleged he was murdered by members of the ruling Trinamool Congress, a charged denied by the state's ruling party. Roy was missing since Saturday evening, police said, adding that the circumstances behind his death were being investigated. State BJP president Dilip Ghosh alleged that Roy was murdered by the TMC and then his body was hanged from the tree around midnight to spread panic among his party's workers in the area. "It has become a new trend to hang to death BJP workers. But we will launch a strong resistance. TMC is scared of the growing support for the BJP," he said. The Trinamool Congress said their party members were not involved in the death of Roy. Hooghly's BJP MP Locket Chatterjee said, "This brutality needs to stop. Where are the champions of democracy and why are they silent on these never ending killing of BJP workers in West Bengal?" BJP workers blocked the Goghat-Arambagh Road for some time in protest against the incident before being dispersed by police. On July 28, a BJP booth president's body was found hanging in Haldia in East Midnapore district. Before that incident, the body of BJP leader and Hemtabad MLA Debendra Nath Ray was also found hanging near his home in North Dinajpur district, amid allegations by his family and the party that it was a "cold-blooded murder by TMC", a charge again denied by the ruling party which said that he had died by suicide, citing the post mortem report. Over the last few years, bodies of several BJP workers have been found hanging in different parts of the state.

BJP worker's body found hanging from tree in Bengal's Hooghly

The issue of conduct of NEET-JEE exams has found itself in legal tussle. After Supreme Court declined to entertain pleas for postponement of NEET and JEE exams, six ministers of Opposition ruled states have approached the top court for a review. These ministers from states of West Bengal, Punjab, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand have filed a review petition.

The petition, filed through advocate Sunil Fernandes, seeks postponement of exams slated to be held in September in light of coronavirus pandemic.

"Failed to balance the competing but equally important aspects of conducting the examination and securing safety of the student. Fails to ensure that mandatory safeguards are put in place during the conducting of the examinations," said the petition challenging the August 17 order. This has been cited by news agency IANS.

Also Read | <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/tamil-nadu-health-minister-writes-to-union-minister-seeking-cancellation-of-neet-examination-323277">Tamil Nadu Health Minister writes to Union Minister seeking cancellation of NEET Examination</a>

"The advice of `Life Must Go On` may have sounded very philosophical underpinnings but cannot be a substitute for valid legal reasoning and logical analysis of the various aspects involved in the conduct of the NEET (UG) and JEE exams," the petitioners have argued.&nbsp;

The petitioners say that Central Government had ample time to set up at least one exam centre per district to conduct the examinations.

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"Having at least one centre per district would have minimised the inter-district long travel of the students and thereby reduced the chances of Covid-19 spread," says the petition.

The ministers, who have petitioned the Supreme Court have expressed posibillity of irreparable harm coming to the students as a result of spread of coronavirus. 
&nbsp;

The issue of conduct of NEET-JEE exams has found itself in legal tussle. After Supreme Court declined to entertain pleas for postponement of NEET and JEE exams, six ministers of Opposition ruled states have approached the top court for a review.

The issue of conduct of NEET-JEE exams has found itself in legal tussle. After Supreme Court declined to entertain pleas for postponement of NEET and JEE exams, six ministers of Opposition ruled states have approached the top court for a review. These ministers from states of West Bengal, Punjab, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand have filed a review petition. The petition, filed through advocate Sunil Fernandes, seeks postponement of exams slated to be held in September in light of coronavirus pandemic. "Failed to balance the competing but equally important aspects of conducting the examination and securing safety of the student. Fails to ensure that mandatory safeguards are put in place during the conducting of the examinations," said the petition challenging the August 17 order. This has been cited by news agency IANS. Also Read | Tamil Nadu Health Minister writes to Union Minister seeking cancellation of NEET Examination "The advice of `Life Must Go On` may have sounded very philosophical underpinnings but cannot be a substitute for valid legal reasoning and logical analysis of the various aspects involved in the conduct of the NEET (UG) and JEE exams," the petitioners have argued. The petitioners say that Central Government had ample time to set up at least one exam centre per district to conduct the examinations. × "Having at least one centre per district would have minimised the inter-district long travel of the students and thereby reduced the chances of Covid-19 spread," says the petition. The ministers, who have petitioned the Supreme Court have expressed posibillity of irreparable harm coming to the students as a result of spread of coronavirus.

NEET-JEE exams: 6 ministers of non-BJP ruled states approach SC for review of order

At 13.89 per cent, the COVID-19 fatality rate in West Bengal is the highest among people aged above 75 years, the health department said in its bulletin.

In the age group of 61-75 years, the rate stands at 6.58 per cent, it said.

The department, however, did not mention the total number of COVID-19 deceased in the respective age groups.

According to an official of the health department, who is also a doctor, most of those belonging to the age bracket of 61-75 years were found suffering from hypertension, diabetes or other ailments such as renal disease, cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD), which ultimately led to their demise.

Age is definitely a factor, as the body's immune system tends to weaken as people grow old, which, in turn, affects their ability to combat a disease, senior physician Dr Syamasis Bandyopadhyay said.

"Moreover, they are also fighting multiple age-related ailments like diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery disease, renal failure and more. That is why the COVID-19 death rate is comparatively higher among the older population," the senior physician told PTI.

So far, as many as 1,861 coronavirus-affected in the state have died due to comorbidities, and COVID-19 in these cases were "incidental".

Bengal's COVID-19 tally climbed to 98,459 on Monday, with 2,905 fresh cases.

Forty-one people succumbed to the infection, taking the death toll in the state to 2,100.

At 13.89 per cent, the COVID-19 fatality rate in West Bengal is the highest among people aged above 75 years, the health department said in its bulletin. In the age group of 61-75 years, the rate stands at 6.

At 13.89 per cent, the COVID-19 fatality rate in West Bengal is the highest among people aged above 75 years, the health department said in its bulletin. In the age group of 61-75 years, the rate stands at 6.58 per cent, it said. The department, however, did not mention the total number of COVID-19 deceased in the respective age groups. According to an official of the health department, who is also a doctor, most of those belonging to the age bracket of 61-75 years were found suffering from hypertension, diabetes or other ailments such as renal disease, cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD), which ultimately led to their demise. Age is definitely a factor, as the body's immune system tends to weaken as people grow old, which, in turn, affects their ability to combat a disease, senior physician Dr Syamasis Bandyopadhyay said. "Moreover, they are also fighting multiple age-related ailments like diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery disease, renal failure and more. That is why the COVID-19 death rate is comparatively higher among the older population," the senior physician told PTI. So far, as many as 1,861 coronavirus-affected in the state have died due to comorbidities, and COVID-19 in these cases were "incidental". Bengal's COVID-19 tally climbed to 98,459 on Monday, with 2,905 fresh cases. Forty-one people succumbed to the infection, taking the death toll in the state to 2,100.

COVID-19 fatality rate in Bengal highest among people over 75 years: Health department

The Centre did not hold discussions with West Bengal before framing the New Education Policy (NEP), said State Education Minister Partha Chatterjee said on Friday.

He said discussions might have been held with others, but not with anybody from the West Bengal government.

"To my knowledge, nothing has happened; not even a single time with respect to PM Modi. I can say emphatically that no one from Bengal was part of the discussions," he told reporters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-education-policy-focusses-on-how-to-think-pm-modi-318796" hreflang="en">New Education Policy focusses on how to think: PM Modi</a>

Chatterjee said, "We gave our thoughts on the draft resolution of national education policy but nothing was discussed."

Earlier, PM Narendra Modi said, "Till now our focus was on 'what to think'&nbsp;but the NEP focuses on 'how to think'. There is a flood of information in today's age. We need the ability to decide which information to accept. NEP has stressed on inquiry-based, discussion-based, and analysis-based thinking."

"Some people said that implementation of NEP would be a challenge. We have to implement it together. I am committed to this cause," he said.&nbsp;

The Centre did not hold discussions with West Bengal before framing the New Education Policy (NEP), said State Education Minister Partha Chatterjee said on Friday.

The Centre did not hold discussions with West Bengal before framing the New Education Policy (NEP), said State Education Minister Partha Chatterjee said on Friday. He said discussions might have been held with others, but not with anybody from the West Bengal government. "To my knowledge, nothing has happened; not even a single time with respect to PM Modi. I can say emphatically that no one from Bengal was part of the discussions," he told reporters. Also read: New Education Policy focusses on how to think: PM Modi Chatterjee said, "We gave our thoughts on the draft resolution of national education policy but nothing was discussed." Earlier, PM Narendra Modi said, "Till now our focus was on 'what to think' but the NEP focuses on 'how to think'. There is a flood of information in today's age. We need the ability to decide which information to accept. NEP has stressed on inquiry-based, discussion-based, and analysis-based thinking." "Some people said that implementation of NEP would be a challenge. We have to implement it together. I am committed to this cause," he said.

Not consulted before New Education Policy, says West Bengal minister

The West Bengal government on Thursday said the lockdown in containment zones in the state will be extended till August 31.

Earlier, the state had said the shutdown in containment zones will be in force till July 31.

There will be a complete lockdown across the state on August 5, August 8, August 16-17, August 23-24 and August 31, as announced earlier, a notification issued by Chief Secretary Rajiva Sinha said.

Educational centres, coaching institutes, cinema halls, swimming pools, entertainment parks, theatres, bars, auditoriums and assembly halls will remain closed till August 31, it said.

During the complete lockdown days in August, all government and private offices, commercial establishments, public and private transport, including flight services, will be cease to operate, the notification said.

Essential services including healthcare, agriculture operations and home delivery of food, have been exempted on such days.

However, gyms and yoga institutes outside containment zones will be allowed to function from August 5, barring the total lockdown days, the notification added.

The West Bengal government on Thursday said the lockdown in containment zones in the state will be extended till August 31. Earlier, the state had said the shutdown in containment zones will be in force till July 31.

The West Bengal government on Thursday said the lockdown in containment zones in the state will be extended till August 31. Earlier, the state had said the shutdown in containment zones will be in force till July 31. There will be a complete lockdown across the state on August 5, August 8, August 16-17, August 23-24 and August 31, as announced earlier, a notification issued by Chief Secretary Rajiva Sinha said. Educational centres, coaching institutes, cinema halls, swimming pools, entertainment parks, theatres, bars, auditoriums and assembly halls will remain closed till August 31, it said. During the complete lockdown days in August, all government and private offices, commercial establishments, public and private transport, including flight services, will be cease to operate, the notification said. Essential services including healthcare, agriculture operations and home delivery of food, have been exempted on such days. However, gyms and yoga institutes outside containment zones will be allowed to function from August 5, barring the total lockdown days, the notification added.

COVID-19: West Bengal extends lockdown in containment zones till August 31

The West Bengal government on Thursday said the lockdown in containment zones in the state will be extended till August 31.

Earlier, the state had said the shutdown in containment zones will be in force till July 31.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-1-million-recovered-in-india-from-coronavirus-health-ministry-317101">Over 1 million recovered in India from coronavirus: Health ministry</a>

There will be a complete lockdown across the state on August 5, August 8, August 16-17, August 23-24 and August 31, as announced earlier, a notification issued by Chief Secretary Rajiva Sinha said.

Educational centres, coaching institutes, cinema halls, swimming pools, entertainment parks, theatres, bars, auditoriums and assembly halls will remain closed till August 31, it said.

During the complete lockdown days in August, all government and private offices, commercial establishments, public and private transport, including flight services, will be cease to operate, the notification said.

Essential services including healthcare, agriculture operations and home delivery of food, have been exempted on such days.

However, gyms and yoga institutes outside containment zones will be allowed to function from August 5, barring the total lockdown days, the notification added. 
&nbsp;

The West Bengal government on Thursday said the lockdown in containment zones in the state will be extended till August 31. Earlier, the state had said the shutdown in containment zones will be in force till July 31. Also read | Over 1 million recovered in India from coronavirus: Health ministry There will be a complete lockdown across the state on August 5, August 8, August 16-17, August 23-24 and August 31, as announced earlier, a notification issued by Chief Secretary Rajiva Sinha said. Educational centres, coaching institutes, cinema halls, swimming pools, entertainment parks, theatres, bars, auditoriums and assembly halls will remain closed till August 31, it said. During the complete lockdown days in August, all government and private offices, commercial establishments, public and private transport, including flight services, will be cease to operate, the notification said. Essential services including healthcare, agriculture operations and home delivery of food, have been exempted on such days. However, gyms and yoga institutes outside containment zones will be allowed to function from August 5, barring the total lockdown days, the notification added.

West Bengal extends lockdown in containment zones till Aug 31

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday extended the bi-weekly partial lockdown till August 31 across the state in a bid to contain the spread of novel coronavirus that is touching 67,000-mark in West Bengal.&nbsp;

She said there would be no lockdown in the state on August 1st on the occasion of Bakrid.

"We have decided to extend the partial lockdown in the state till August 31. Earlier, it was in force till July 31. Corona is now at its peak in Bengal. If the situation improves we will take the next call accordingly," she said, adding that there will be lockdown in containment zones only on August 1 and complete lockdown on Sunday.

Banerjee said that there would also be no lockdown on August 3 because of Raksha Bandhan.

Next bi-weekly lockdown will be enforced on August 8-9 (Saturday and Sunday). Bi-weekly complete lockdown in West Bengal will be on August 2, 5, 8, 9, 16, 17, 22, 23, 29, 30.

Banerjee said that all the government and private offices, commercial establishments, public and private transport would remain closed during the lockdown. The next lockdown is scheduled on July 29 (Wednesday).

Only the essential services will be functional. Petrol pumps are allowed to open. The functioning of courts, work in agricultural fields and tea gardens, intra-state and inter-state goods movements and home delivery of cooked food will be permitted during the extended partial lockdown.

"We have tentative plans to open schools on alternate days from September 5 but that can only be possible if the situation improves," Banerjee said. 
&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday extended the bi-weekly partial lockdown till August 31 across the state in a bid to contain the spread of novel coronavirus that is touching 67,000-mark in West Bengal.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday extended the bi-weekly partial lockdown till August 31 across the state in a bid to contain the spread of novel coronavirus that is touching 67,000-mark in West Bengal. She said there would be no lockdown in the state on August 1st on the occasion of Bakrid. "We have decided to extend the partial lockdown in the state till August 31. Earlier, it was in force till July 31. Corona is now at its peak in Bengal. If the situation improves we will take the next call accordingly," she said, adding that there will be lockdown in containment zones only on August 1 and complete lockdown on Sunday. Banerjee said that there would also be no lockdown on August 3 because of Raksha Bandhan. Next bi-weekly lockdown will be enforced on August 8-9 (Saturday and Sunday). Bi-weekly complete lockdown in West Bengal will be on August 2, 5, 8, 9, 16, 17, 22, 23, 29, 30. Banerjee said that all the government and private offices, commercial establishments, public and private transport would remain closed during the lockdown. The next lockdown is scheduled on July 29 (Wednesday). Only the essential services will be functional. Petrol pumps are allowed to open. The functioning of courts, work in agricultural fields and tea gardens, intra-state and inter-state goods movements and home delivery of cooked food will be permitted during the extended partial lockdown. "We have tentative plans to open schools on alternate days from September 5 but that can only be possible if the situation improves," Banerjee said.

Mamata Banerjee extends partial lockdown in Bengal till Aug 31

In the wake of the rising cases of coronavirus in the state, West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar on Sunday urged people to abide by the social distancing norms and take all precautionary measures to contain its spread.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/record-single-day-spike-of-38902-covid-19-cases-in-india-ima-terms-it-onset-of-community-spread-314392" hreflang="en">Record single-day spike of 38,902 COVID-19 cases in India; IMA terms it onset of community spread</a>

"PANDEMIC COVID-19 challenge is on rise. As figures of Covid-19 +ve and Deaths @MamataOfficial rise I appeal CALM and URGE to give 100% in observing:- *SOCIAL DISTANCING *WEARING MASK *REGULAR HAND WASH ...TIME TO HAND HOLD NEEDY. No scope for complacency at any level," he tweeted.

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PANDEMIC COVID-19 challenge is on rise. 
 
As figures of Covid-19 +ve and Deaths <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MamataOfficial</a> rise I appeal CALM and URGE to give 100% in observing:- 
 
•SOCIAL DISTANCING 
•WEARING MASK 
•REGULAR HAND WASH 
 
TIME TO HAND HOLD NEEDY. 
 
No scope for complacency at any level.
— Governor West Bengal Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) <a href="https://twitter.com/jdhankhar1/status/1284661214291783682?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He also tagged Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in the tweet. According to the Health Ministry, West Bengal so far has recorded as many as 40,209 cases of coronavirus.

Out of the total,15,594 are active cases, 23,539 have been migrated/cured/discharged. Around 1,076 have died in the state after contracting the infection.

In the wake of the rising cases of coronavirus in the state, West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar on Sunday urged people to abide by the social distancing norms and take all precautionary measures to contain its spread.

In the wake of the rising cases of coronavirus in the state, West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar on Sunday urged people to abide by the social distancing norms and take all precautionary measures to contain its spread. Also read: Record single-day spike of 38,902 COVID-19 cases in India; IMA terms it onset of community spread "PANDEMIC COVID-19 challenge is on rise. As figures of Covid-19 +ve and Deaths @MamataOfficial rise I appeal CALM and URGE to give 100% in observing:- *SOCIAL DISTANCING *WEARING MASK *REGULAR HAND WASH ...TIME TO HAND HOLD NEEDY. No scope for complacency at any level," he tweeted. PANDEMIC COVID-19 challenge is on rise. As figures of Covid-19 +ve and Deaths @MamataOfficial rise I appeal CALM and URGE to give 100% in observing:- •SOCIAL DISTANCING •WEARING MASK •REGULAR HAND WASH TIME TO HAND HOLD NEEDY. No scope for complacency at any level. — Governor West Bengal Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) July 19, 2020 × He also tagged Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in the tweet. According to the Health Ministry, West Bengal so far has recorded as many as 40,209 cases of coronavirus. Out of the total,15,594 are active cases, 23,539 have been migrated/cured/discharged. Around 1,076 have died in the state after contracting the infection.

West Bengal Governor urges people to follow health norms to contain COVID-19

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said the Centre was not standing by the people amid the economic downturn due to COVID-19, as she hit out at the BJP-led government over Air India's decision to send certain employees on leave without pay for up to five years.

She accused the central government of taking advantage of the crisis and tweaking laws and rules to keep on with their "dictator-like attitude".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lockdown-in-containment-zones-in-west-bengal-for-seven-days-chief-minister-mamata-banerjee-311706">Lockdown in containment zones in West Bengal for seven days: Chief minister Mamata Banerjee</a>

"Sometimes, I feel not to say anything against them and work together to fight COVID-19. But then, I feel sorry that when we are passing through such a critical time and everybody is fighting the disease, the central government and BJP are taking advantage (of it)," the chief minister said at a press conference in state secretariat 'Nabanna'.

"They have already amended so many laws without any consultation (with any political parties), so many laws have been changed and whatever they need to maintain their dictatorship they are doing it. I am shocked," she added.

Slamming the Centre over the Air India move, she asked what will happen to the employees after five years.

"What's happening in the country? I've never heard of this. Will not the Constitution come into play in this case? I am really shocked. How can they snatch the democratic rights of the people... Five years on leave without pay and after five years where will they go," she said.

"Five years of no pay in this situation when people want cash," Banerjee stated.

"Is this the manner in which a democratic government works? Everything is lost... Everybody is afraid, scared and ashamed. What will they do?" Banerjee said.

Air India Thursday said it has started the process of identifying employees, based on various factors like efficiency, health and redundancy, who will be sent on compulsory leave without pay (LWP) for up to five years.

She further said that the central government was not paying heed to the advice of senior economists to give money into the hands of people at this hour of crisis, and instead was allowing FDI in several important sectors such as the railways.

"How can they snatch the rights of the employees of Coal India with 100 per cent FDI? Banks are also been merged," she said.

Banerjee urged all the trade unions to unitedly fight against the decisions of the Centre.

"I will appeal to all trade unions, including the BJP's, to unitedly stand against this without surrendering... I will request them not to bow their heads and stay together to support this cause," she said. 
&nbsp;

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said the Centre was not standing by the people amid the economic downturn due to COVID-19, as she hit out at the BJP-led government over Air India's decision to send certain employees on leave without pay for up to five years.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said the Centre was not standing by the people amid the economic downturn due to COVID-19, as she hit out at the BJP-led government over Air India's decision to send certain employees on leave without pay for up to five years. She accused the central government of taking advantage of the crisis and tweaking laws and rules to keep on with their "dictator-like attitude". Also read | Lockdown in containment zones in West Bengal for seven days: Chief minister Mamata Banerjee "Sometimes, I feel not to say anything against them and work together to fight COVID-19. But then, I feel sorry that when we are passing through such a critical time and everybody is fighting the disease, the central government and BJP are taking advantage (of it)," the chief minister said at a press conference in state secretariat 'Nabanna'. "They have already amended so many laws without any consultation (with any political parties), so many laws have been changed and whatever they need to maintain their dictatorship they are doing it. I am shocked," she added. Slamming the Centre over the Air India move, she asked what will happen to the employees after five years. "What's happening in the country? I've never heard of this. Will not the Constitution come into play in this case? I am really shocked. How can they snatch the democratic rights of the people... Five years on leave without pay and after five years where will they go," she said. "Five years of no pay in this situation when people want cash," Banerjee stated. "Is this the manner in which a democratic government works? Everything is lost... Everybody is afraid, scared and ashamed. What will they do?" Banerjee said. Air India Thursday said it has started the process of identifying employees, based on various factors like efficiency, health and redundancy, who will be sent on compulsory leave without pay (LWP) for up to five years. She further said that the central government was not paying heed to the advice of senior economists to give money into the hands of people at this hour of crisis, and instead was allowing FDI in several important sectors such as the railways. "How can they snatch the rights of the employees of Coal India with 100 per cent FDI? Banks are also been merged," she said. Banerjee urged all the trade unions to unitedly fight against the decisions of the Centre. "I will appeal to all trade unions, including the BJP's, to unitedly stand against this without surrendering... I will request them not to bow their heads and stay together to support this cause," she said.

Everybody is afraid, scared, ashamed: Mamata on Air India's leave without pay move

A plasma bank for treating COVID-19 patients has been set up at Kolkata Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), the first of its kind in West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said on Monday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-triggered-the-india-china-standoff-and-why-is-beijing-irked-311176" hreflang="en">What triggered the India-China standoff, and why is Beijing irked?</a>

So far, around 12 people who have recovered from COVID-19 have donated their plasma in the state to help in the treatment of coronavirus infected people.

"The state health department has built a plasma bank at the Kolkata Medical College and Hospital's Immunohematology department for COVID-19 treatment," Banerjee said at the state secretariat on Monday.

It is the second such initiative in the country. A plasma bank had been recently set up at Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) in Delhi.

COVID-19 patients are being given plasma therapy in some hospitals. It involves taking antibodies from the blood of a person who has recovered from COVID-19 and transfusing those into a coronavirus infected patient to help kick-start the immune system to fight the infection.

The facility at KMCH will be the nodal centre in the state for collection of plasma. Among the 12 people who have donated plasma in the state are a couple of doctors, a policeman, and a student/

Banerjee, who also holds the health portfolio, said that her government will build a centre of excellence at the Beliaghata Infectious Diseases Hospital - one of the dedicated COVID-19 facilities in the state.

Doctors at that hospital have been doing a commendable job in fighting the pandemic, she said.

The chief minister, during the press meet, also launched the 'Jol Swapno' scheme, which would connect at least two crore households in the rural areas of the state with drinking water facilities.

The project, estimated to cost Rs 58,000 crore, will be completed in five years, she said.

"Every household in rural Bengal will have access to drinking water. This is a very big task. This is our responsibility. It is called Jol Swapno. The project, under the Public Health and Engineering Department, will be completed in phases," she said.

Banerjee said that the initiative will also create job opportunities for the youth, and thus improve the socio-economic condition of rural Bengal.

A plasma bank for treating COVID-19 patients has been set up at Kolkata Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), the first of its kind in West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said on Monday.

A plasma bank for treating COVID-19 patients has been set up at Kolkata Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), the first of its kind in West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said on Monday. Also read: What triggered the India-China standoff, and why is Beijing irked? So far, around 12 people who have recovered from COVID-19 have donated their plasma in the state to help in the treatment of coronavirus infected people. "The state health department has built a plasma bank at the Kolkata Medical College and Hospital's Immunohematology department for COVID-19 treatment," Banerjee said at the state secretariat on Monday. It is the second such initiative in the country. A plasma bank had been recently set up at Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) in Delhi. COVID-19 patients are being given plasma therapy in some hospitals. It involves taking antibodies from the blood of a person who has recovered from COVID-19 and transfusing those into a coronavirus infected patient to help kick-start the immune system to fight the infection. The facility at KMCH will be the nodal centre in the state for collection of plasma. Among the 12 people who have donated plasma in the state are a couple of doctors, a policeman, and a student/ Banerjee, who also holds the health portfolio, said that her government will build a centre of excellence at the Beliaghata Infectious Diseases Hospital - one of the dedicated COVID-19 facilities in the state. Doctors at that hospital have been doing a commendable job in fighting the pandemic, she said. The chief minister, during the press meet, also launched the 'Jol Swapno' scheme, which would connect at least two crore households in the rural areas of the state with drinking water facilities. The project, estimated to cost Rs 58,000 crore, will be completed in five years, she said. "Every household in rural Bengal will have access to drinking water. This is a very big task. This is our responsibility. It is called Jol Swapno. The project, under the Public Health and Engineering Department, will be completed in phases," she said. Banerjee said that the initiative will also create job opportunities for the youth, and thus improve the socio-economic condition of rural Bengal.

West Bengal gets its first plasma bank for COVID-19 patients

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday announced that the lockdown in the state, which was set to last till June 15, has been extended till the end of the month.

Banerjee also said that over 11 lakh migrants would be returning to the state by June 10.

"The lockdown is being extended in the state till June 30, with existing relaxations and conditions still in place.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-gears-up-for-unlock-10-devotees-flock-to-religious-places-304096">COVID 19: India gears up for Unlock 1.0; devotees flock to religious places</a>

"Earlier, we had allowed only 10 people at places of worship and social programmes such as a marriage or a funeral ceremony, now we have increased it to 25," she said after a meeting of the state cabinet.

The TMC government eased lockdown curbs from June 1, allowing places of worship to reopen, and jute, tea and construction sectors to recommence full-fledged operations.

"Around nine lakh migrant workers have returned to the state till date. By June 10, over 11 lakh more migrants would be back in Bengal," Banerjee said.

The issue of bringing home migrant workers from other parts of the country had snowballed into a major political row over the last few weeks, with the Centre and state BJP alleging that the government was not keen to take them back.

The TMC dispensation has rebuffed the claims.

The chief minister said her government would spend Rs 1,050 crore, a soft loan received from the World Bank, to build infrastructure.

"We have received a soft loan from world bank for creating infrastructure for industrial purposes. We would also spend Rs 850 crore on social schemes," she said.

Shopping malls, restaurants and other establishments resumed services in Bengal on Monday after a gap of over two months, with the state government allowing relaxations as part of 'Unlock-1', the first phase of a calibrated exit from the coronavirus lockdown across the country.

The state had earlier issued an order easing night curfew hours and strictly prohibiting movement of individuals between 9 pm and 5 am, except for essential activities.

Admitting that public transport was not readily available everywhere on Monday, as government offices returned to near-normalcy with 70 per cent workforce, Banerjee said around 5,000 buses were on the roads.

She also said that unavailability of suburban trains and metro railway services was causing hardship to many. The chief minister, however, cautioned people against travelling in crowded buses, and said that it was better to reach late to office than expose oneself to danger.

Earlier, too, she had said that government office employees would not be marked late if they reach beyond the stipulated time.

Banerjee said the police would also look into the aspect of setting up cycle lanes on busy roads as several people had been pedalling to work to avoid public transport.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday announced that the lockdown in the state, which was set to last till June 15, has been extended till the end of the month.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday announced that the lockdown in the state, which was set to last till June 15, has been extended till the end of the month. Banerjee also said that over 11 lakh migrants would be returning to the state by June 10. "The lockdown is being extended in the state till June 30, with existing relaxations and conditions still in place. Also read | COVID 19: India gears up for Unlock 1.0; devotees flock to religious places "Earlier, we had allowed only 10 people at places of worship and social programmes such as a marriage or a funeral ceremony, now we have increased it to 25," she said after a meeting of the state cabinet. The TMC government eased lockdown curbs from June 1, allowing places of worship to reopen, and jute, tea and construction sectors to recommence full-fledged operations. "Around nine lakh migrant workers have returned to the state till date. By June 10, over 11 lakh more migrants would be back in Bengal," Banerjee said. The issue of bringing home migrant workers from other parts of the country had snowballed into a major political row over the last few weeks, with the Centre and state BJP alleging that the government was not keen to take them back. The TMC dispensation has rebuffed the claims. The chief minister said her government would spend Rs 1,050 crore, a soft loan received from the World Bank, to build infrastructure. "We have received a soft loan from world bank for creating infrastructure for industrial purposes. We would also spend Rs 850 crore on social schemes," she said. Shopping malls, restaurants and other establishments resumed services in Bengal on Monday after a gap of over two months, with the state government allowing relaxations as part of 'Unlock-1', the first phase of a calibrated exit from the coronavirus lockdown across the country. The state had earlier issued an order easing night curfew hours and strictly prohibiting movement of individuals between 9 pm and 5 am, except for essential activities. Admitting that public transport was not readily available everywhere on Monday, as government offices returned to near-normalcy with 70 per cent workforce, Banerjee said around 5,000 buses were on the roads. She also said that unavailability of suburban trains and metro railway services was causing hardship to many. The chief minister, however, cautioned people against travelling in crowded buses, and said that it was better to reach late to office than expose oneself to danger. Earlier, too, she had said that government office employees would not be marked late if they reach beyond the stipulated time. Banerjee said the police would also look into the aspect of setting up cycle lanes on busy roads as several people had been pedalling to work to avoid public transport.

West Bengal extends lockdown till June 30

Miss England Bhasha Mukherjee is truly the perfect example of the phrase 'Beauty With A Purpose'. The beauty queen is a doctor by profession and has been working as an NHS health worker in Britain amid the pandemic that has gripped the entire world. Not only has she been spreading awareness around coronavirus but she is also facilitated a fundraiser for Cyclone Amphan relief work. 
 
Through a video message on her Instagram, Bhasha has appealed to everyone to donate to rebuild West Bengal which has been majorly affected due to the cyclone that hit the state two weeks back. Bhasha recalled how she was in the city a few months back and preponed her trip back to England to join as NHS respiratory specialist and a hospital treating COVID-19 patients. "I could have been affected by the cyclone," she says in the video that has been shared on her Instagram page. 
 
Bhasha was born in Kolkata and shifted to Britain with her parents when she was 9-years old. She calls the city her second home. In fact, the model was in Kolkata in March during the initial outbreak of coronavirus. 
 
According to a report in CNN, Bhasha was in India to meet her family and did philanthropic work as well during her stay here. She donated stationery to several schools and contributed money to a home for abandoned girls. When the pandemic hit, she made the decision to rush back to the UK and join her healthcare colleagues at the Pilgrim Hospital in Eastern England that was facing a severe shortage of staff. 
 
“When you are doing all this humanitarian work abroad, you’re still expected to put the crown on, get ready… look pretty. I wanted to come back home. I wanted to come and go straight to work. I really wanted to join the task force right away,” she had told a news channel in an interview.

Miss England Bhasha Mukherjee is truly the perfect example of the phrase 'Beauty With A Purpose'. The beauty queen is a doctor by profession and has been working as an NHS health worker in Britain amid the pandemic that has gripped the entire world.

Miss England Bhasha Mukherjee is truly the perfect example of the phrase 'Beauty With A Purpose'. The beauty queen is a doctor by profession and has been working as an NHS health worker in Britain amid the pandemic that has gripped the entire world. Not only has she been spreading awareness around coronavirus but she is also facilitated a fundraiser for Cyclone Amphan relief work. Through a video message on her Instagram, Bhasha has appealed to everyone to donate to rebuild West Bengal which has been majorly affected due to the cyclone that hit the state two weeks back. Bhasha recalled how she was in the city a few months back and preponed her trip back to England to join as NHS respiratory specialist and a hospital treating COVID-19 patients. "I could have been affected by the cyclone," she says in the video that has been shared on her Instagram page. Bhasha was born in Kolkata and shifted to Britain with her parents when she was 9-years old. She calls the city her second home. In fact, the model was in Kolkata in March during the initial outbreak of coronavirus. According to a report in CNN, Bhasha was in India to meet her family and did philanthropic work as well during her stay here. She donated stationery to several schools and contributed money to a home for abandoned girls. When the pandemic hit, she made the decision to rush back to the UK and join her healthcare colleagues at the Pilgrim Hospital in Eastern England that was facing a severe shortage of staff. “When you are doing all this humanitarian work abroad, you’re still expected to put the crown on, get ready… look pretty. I wanted to come back home. I wanted to come and go straight to work. I really wanted to join the task force right away,” she had told a news channel in an interview.

Miss England Dr Bhasha Mukherjee now raises funds for Cyclone Amphan relief work in Bengal

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has decided to increase the workforce capacity from 50 per cent to 70 per cent in the state.

"With multiple crises in the state, we have decided to increase the state government's workforce capacity from 50 per cent to 70 per cent. Continuation of restoration work is one of the top priorities and workforce increase will ensure that public services are uninterrupted," Banerjee said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-accuses-government-of-running-corona-express-in-disguise-of-shramik-trains-301942">Also read:&nbsp;Mamata Banerjee accuses government of running 'Corona express' in disguise of Shramik trains</a>

The decision has been taken to complete the restoration work of the damage done by the cyclone that hit the state last week, and caused immense structural damage.

As she announced the decision of increasing the workforce capacity during the pandemic, she also added a word of caution for the private entities, "In the private sector, I urge all to stay safe, work indoors as much as possible and to the best of their abilities. Prerogative lies with the respective managements of private entities to decide on workforce capacity and act accordingly."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cyclone-amphan-leaves-kolkata-airport-flooded-hangars-damaged-beyond-repair-300105">Have a look:&nbsp;Cyclone Amphan leaves Kolkata airport flooded; hangars damaged beyond repair</a>&nbsp;

The Chief Minister also announced that West Bengal will be continuing with the lockdown after lockdown 4.0 ends at the end of this month.&nbsp;"The lockdown will continue with minimal effects. Jute mills and tea gardens will operate with 100 per cent workforce capacity. We are together in this. I am sure with all your cooperation and understanding, Bengal will emerge victoriously."

During this lockdown extension in her state, she will also allow all religious places to reopen, but with a capacity of 10 people at a&nbsp; time.&nbsp;"Temples, gurdwaras, mosques and all religious places in the state are closed. They will open from June 1 but not more than 10 people will be allowed at any given point of time. No assembly would be allowed in religious places."

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has decided to increase the workforce capacity from 50 per cent to 70 per cent in the state. "With multiple crises in the state, we have decided to increase the state government's workforce capacity from 50 per cent to 70 per cent.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has decided to increase the workforce capacity from 50 per cent to 70 per cent in the state. "With multiple crises in the state, we have decided to increase the state government's workforce capacity from 50 per cent to 70 per cent. Continuation of restoration work is one of the top priorities and workforce increase will ensure that public services are uninterrupted," Banerjee said. Also read: Mamata Banerjee accuses government of running 'Corona express' in disguise of Shramik trains The decision has been taken to complete the restoration work of the damage done by the cyclone that hit the state last week, and caused immense structural damage. As she announced the decision of increasing the workforce capacity during the pandemic, she also added a word of caution for the private entities, "In the private sector, I urge all to stay safe, work indoors as much as possible and to the best of their abilities. Prerogative lies with the respective managements of private entities to decide on workforce capacity and act accordingly." Have a look: Cyclone Amphan leaves Kolkata airport flooded; hangars damaged beyond repair The Chief Minister also announced that West Bengal will be continuing with the lockdown after lockdown 4.0 ends at the end of this month. "The lockdown will continue with minimal effects. Jute mills and tea gardens will operate with 100 per cent workforce capacity. We are together in this. I am sure with all your cooperation and understanding, Bengal will emerge victoriously." During this lockdown extension in her state, she will also allow all religious places to reopen, but with a capacity of 10 people at a time. "Temples, gurdwaras, mosques and all religious places in the state are closed. They will open from June 1 but not more than 10 people will be allowed at any given point of time. No assembly would be allowed in religious places."

Mamata Banerjee increases workforce capacity to 70%; announces lockdown extension for West Bengal

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has alleged the central government and the Indian Railways are not taking care of social distancing in the Shramik special trains, being run for the migrant workers.

Calling it 'Corona Express', she said, "In the name of Shramik Express, Indian Railways is running 'Corona Express'. Why extra trains are not being run. I was Railway Minister once. I had increased coaches, but why it cannot be done now? The Railways are bringing people from hotspot areas in huge numbers."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-slams-central-government-for-sending-36-trains-without-consulting-301466">Also read:&nbsp;Mamata Banerjee slams central government for sending 36 trains without consulting</a>

She alleged government of not exercising caution and letting people crowd in the trains. She suggested increasing coaches in the trains and running extra trains, reminding everyone that she too was once a Railway Minister and had used similar methods to avert such problems.

"Law is equal for all but why all trains are running in full capacity? Why the Railways is not maintaining social distancing? Passengers are not being served water and food in the trains," she added.

West Bengal has been battling the after-effects of the cyclone that damaged a lot of parts of the state.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has alleged the central government and the Indian Railways are not taking care of social distancing in the Shramik special trains, being run for the migrant workers.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has alleged the central government and the Indian Railways are not taking care of social distancing in the Shramik special trains, being run for the migrant workers. Calling it 'Corona Express', she said, "In the name of Shramik Express, Indian Railways is running 'Corona Express'. Why extra trains are not being run. I was Railway Minister once. I had increased coaches, but why it cannot be done now? The Railways are bringing people from hotspot areas in huge numbers." Also read: Mamata Banerjee slams central government for sending 36 trains without consulting She alleged government of not exercising caution and letting people crowd in the trains. She suggested increasing coaches in the trains and running extra trains, reminding everyone that she too was once a Railway Minister and had used similar methods to avert such problems. "Law is equal for all but why all trains are running in full capacity? Why the Railways is not maintaining social distancing? Passengers are not being served water and food in the trains," she added. West Bengal has been battling the after-effects of the cyclone that damaged a lot of parts of the state.

Mamata Banerjee accuses government of running 'Corona express' in disguise of Shramik trains

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is not very happy with the central government's decision of sending 36 trains to the state without consulting her first.

As 36 trains were sent to West Bengal from Mumbai by the central government, Mamata Banerjee claimed that the decision was taken without her knowledge.

She also said that the functioning would have been smoother and better if the plans would have been discussed with her in advance.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-asks-railways-not-to-send-shramik-special-trains-to-state-till-may-26-300555">Also read:&nbsp;West Bengal asks Railways not to send Shramik Special trains to state till May 26</a>

"Without concerning us 36 trains are coming from Mumbai... I spoke to the Maharashtra Government, they said they were informed at 2 am on the night before. If the Central Government had planned with us, if the Railway Ministry had consulted us then it would have been better. We are hearing reports of 2-3 people sharing one seat in trains and not following social distancing," she said in a review meeting through video conference with all District Magistrate (DMs) and Superintendent of Police (SP) over cyclone Amphan.

"By today (Wednesday) night 11 trains are coming to West Bengal...tomorrow 17 trains will be arriving, they are trying to disturb the state and spoil it politically. I told Amit Shah that had sent teams (Inter-Ministerial Central Teams) to West Bengal, if you think West Bengal can't manage on its own then you come and handle. Amit Shah had then said--chune huye Sarkar ko hum kaise tod sakte hai (How can we disturb the government which has been elected). I thank him for saying this."

Urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene and handle the situation, she said, "I appeal to the Prime Minister and Home Minister to take care of the situation. I want PM to intervene, this is no time for politics. There is a spike in cases in Bihar and other BJP ruled states. This is one country. The virus has to be stopped from spreading.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is not very happy with the central government's decision of sending 36 trains to the state without consulting her first.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is not very happy with the central government's decision of sending 36 trains to the state without consulting her first. As 36 trains were sent to West Bengal from Mumbai by the central government, Mamata Banerjee claimed that the decision was taken without her knowledge. She also said that the functioning would have been smoother and better if the plans would have been discussed with her in advance. Also read: West Bengal asks Railways not to send Shramik Special trains to state till May 26 "Without concerning us 36 trains are coming from Mumbai... I spoke to the Maharashtra Government, they said they were informed at 2 am on the night before. If the Central Government had planned with us, if the Railway Ministry had consulted us then it would have been better. We are hearing reports of 2-3 people sharing one seat in trains and not following social distancing," she said in a review meeting through video conference with all District Magistrate (DMs) and Superintendent of Police (SP) over cyclone Amphan. "By today (Wednesday) night 11 trains are coming to West Bengal...tomorrow 17 trains will be arriving, they are trying to disturb the state and spoil it politically. I told Amit Shah that had sent teams (Inter-Ministerial Central Teams) to West Bengal, if you think West Bengal can't manage on its own then you come and handle. Amit Shah had then said--chune huye Sarkar ko hum kaise tod sakte hai (How can we disturb the government which has been elected). I thank him for saying this." Urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene and handle the situation, she said, "I appeal to the Prime Minister and Home Minister to take care of the situation. I want PM to intervene, this is no time for politics. There is a spike in cases in Bihar and other BJP ruled states. This is one country. The virus has to be stopped from spreading.

Mamata Banerjee slams central government for sending 36 trains without consulting

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