The outgoing Governor of West Bengal, Keshari Nath Tripathi spoke exclusively to World Is One News (WION). He shared his views on a whole range of issues, including the National Register of Citizens, political violence in West Bengal and the state Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

WION Exclusive: Keshari Nath Tripathi speaks to WION

In his first interview while leaving office, outgoing West Bengal Governor <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-was-a-courtesy-call-informed-about-general-situation-in-state-west-bengal-governor-keshari-nath-tripathi-meets-pm-modi-225913">Keshari Nath Tripathi</a> told WION that the law and order situation needs improvement in the state. Tripathi said that law enforcement isn’t fair and the police in the lower ranks are biased.&nbsp;

"There is law and order problem in the state. Violence is taking place every day, throughout the state for some reason," he said. "There should not be any discrimination in implementing law and order," Tripathi stated adding that the violence is because of the immigration from across the border.&nbsp;

"The chief minister started blaming a particular political party for it, forgetting that it was created from the within," he told WION.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Calling Aparna Sen’s activism “fraudulent”, Tripathi said some people are wrongly trying to malign the image of the country. On being asked why electoral and political violence remains rampant in Bengal, Tripathi said that it’s because of Rohingya and illegal immigrants. He added that NRC should be introduced in the state and Bengal will benefit from it.&nbsp;</div>

"People have welcomed NRC, it is only hue and very by certain political parties," he said.&nbsp;

The outgoing governor also spoke about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/poll-debacle-mamata-banerjee-holds-10-trinamool-congress-meet-after-lok-sabha-poll-drubbing-235443">Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee</a> not taking his calls, or even <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-bow-my-head-to-brave-soldiers-says-pm-modi-in-tribute-to-kargil-bravehearts-238885">PM Modi</a>'s for that matter. He slammed the media for “wrongly reporting” that he had submitted a 48-page report to the Centre. Tripathi said he “did not submit even a 48-word report.” He refused to confirm or deny if the imposition of President’s rule was ever recommended.&nbsp;

Speaking about Mamata Banerjee’s “politics of appeasement”, he said that the 'Jai Shri Ram' comment was wrong and unfortunate and that the Trinamool Congress chief said what she did only to attract a certain constituency.&nbsp;

Keshari Nath Tripathi is leaving office after the completion of his tenure as the Governor of West Bengal.&nbsp;

In his first interview while leaving office, outgoing West Bengal Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi told WION that the law and order situation needs improvement in the state.

In his first interview while leaving office, outgoing West Bengal Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi told WION that the law and order situation needs improvement in the state. Tripathi said that law enforcement isn’t fair and the police in the lower ranks are biased. "There is law and order problem in the state. Violence is taking place every day, throughout the state for some reason," he said. "There should not be any discrimination in implementing law and order," Tripathi stated adding that the violence is because of the immigration from across the border. "The chief minister started blaming a particular political party for it, forgetting that it was created from the within," he told WION. Calling Aparna Sen’s activism “fraudulent”, Tripathi said some people are wrongly trying to malign the image of the country. On being asked why electoral and political violence remains rampant in Bengal, Tripathi said that it’s because of Rohingya and illegal immigrants. He added that NRC should be introduced in the state and Bengal will benefit from it. "People have welcomed NRC, it is only hue and very by certain political parties," he said. The outgoing governor also spoke about Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee not taking his calls, or even PM Modi's for that matter. He slammed the media for “wrongly reporting” that he had submitted a 48-page report to the Centre. Tripathi said he “did not submit even a 48-word report.” He refused to confirm or deny if the imposition of President’s rule was ever recommended. Speaking about Mamata Banerjee’s “politics of appeasement”, he said that the 'Jai Shri Ram' comment was wrong and unfortunate and that the Trinamool Congress chief said what she did only to attract a certain constituency. Keshari Nath Tripathi is leaving office after the completion of his tenure as the Governor of West Bengal.

'Law and order situation in West Bengal needs improvement,' outgoing Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi tells WION

As the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-two-bjp-supporters-arrested-in-connection-with-trinamool-congress-leaders-murder-224708">Trinamool Congress</a> is set to organise its annual rally on July 21, West Bengal BJP chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-conspiring-to-separate-bengal-from-india-bjp-in-lok-sabha-230301">Dilip Ghosh</a> on Saturday said that TMC`s programme would be "Didi`s Circus".

He said that the meeting would be a "condolence" meeting. TMC observes July 21 as Martyrs` Day every year in remembrance of those who died in 1993 police firing, in Kolkata.

This year`s rally gains significance as it would be the first mega show by TMC after its poll debacle in Lok Sabha elections. "All went there to see Didi`s drama and circus. Will anyone from here go tomorrow to see a circus? No gates, no flags, what is going on I can`t understand. Will that be a winning festival or a condolence meeting?" asked Dilip Ghosh.

"TMC`s condolence meeting is going on as they lost in these elections following which they are unable to celebrate the winning festival. The public should catch hold of TMC leaders who are going to Kolkata by road and ask them to return the public money which they had taken in last 7-8 years," he said.

While reacting to the FIR lodged against him for his comments on TMC rally, Ghosh said: "The people are not going to come to TMC rally and it would prove to be a flop show. The TMC needs some excuse for their failure and hence they are making Dilip Ghosh and BJP a scape-goat."

"If TMC leaders have guts then they should lodge ten more FIRs against me and I will face them all," Ghosh added.

As the Trinamool Congress is set to organise its annual rally on July 21, West Bengal BJP chief Dilip Ghosh on Saturday said that TMC`s programme would be "Didi`s Circus".

As the Trinamool Congress is set to organise its annual rally on July 21, West Bengal BJP chief Dilip Ghosh on Saturday said that TMC`s programme would be "Didi`s Circus". He said that the meeting would be a "condolence" meeting. TMC observes July 21 as Martyrs` Day every year in remembrance of those who died in 1993 police firing, in Kolkata. This year`s rally gains significance as it would be the first mega show by TMC after its poll debacle in Lok Sabha elections. "All went there to see Didi`s drama and circus. Will anyone from here go tomorrow to see a circus? No gates, no flags, what is going on I can`t understand. Will that be a winning festival or a condolence meeting?" asked Dilip Ghosh. "TMC`s condolence meeting is going on as they lost in these elections following which they are unable to celebrate the winning festival. The public should catch hold of TMC leaders who are going to Kolkata by road and ask them to return the public money which they had taken in last 7-8 years," he said. While reacting to the FIR lodged against him for his comments on TMC rally, Ghosh said: "The people are not going to come to TMC rally and it would prove to be a flop show. The TMC needs some excuse for their failure and hence they are making Dilip Ghosh and BJP a scape-goat." "If TMC leaders have guts then they should lodge ten more FIRs against me and I will face them all," Ghosh added.

Dilip Ghosh calls Trinamool Congress rally 'Didi's Circus', FIR lodged

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-issues-a-show-cause-notice-to-babul-supriyo-for-poll-code-violation-204374">Union Minister Babul Supriyo</a> on Sunday hit out at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/bjp-has-set-an-ambitious-goal-of-dislodging-mamata-banerjee-from-power-229100">Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee</a> claiming that Trinamool Congress will be `swept away` from the state by 2021.&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter, BJP leader Supriyo wrote: "They became half in 2019 and they will be swept away by 2021" (`19 mein `HALF` huye, `21 mein `SAAF` hojayenge (Trinamool Samabesh)".

The Union Minister has been critical of TMC supremo Mamata accusing her of provoking violence in the state and employing her party workers and police for the same.&nbsp;

Last month, he had asserted that Mamata-led government won`t last till 2021.&nbsp;

"The head of Bengali community is down with shame not only in India but across the world just because of the present scenario in West Bengal," he had said.&nbsp;

TMC and other opposition parties have been claiming that BJP is trying to topple their governments formed in various states.

On July 13, BJP leader Mukul Roy had said that as many as 107 MLAs of Congress, TMC and CPM will join the BJP. "A total of 107 West Bengal MLAs from CPM, Congress, and TMC will join the BJP," said Roy, while addressing a press conference.&nbsp;

Union Minister Babul Supriyo on Sunday hit out at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee claiming that Trinamool Congress will be `swept away` from the state by 2021. Taking to Twitter, BJP leader Supriyo wrote: "They became half in 2019 and they will be swept away by 2021" (`19 mein `HALF` huye, `21 mein `SAAF` hojayenge (Trinamool Samabesh)".

Union Minister Babul Supriyo on Sunday hit out at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee claiming that Trinamool Congress will be `swept away` from the state by 2021. Taking to Twitter, BJP leader Supriyo wrote: "They became half in 2019 and they will be swept away by 2021" (`19 mein `HALF` huye, `21 mein `SAAF` hojayenge (Trinamool Samabesh)". The Union Minister has been critical of TMC supremo Mamata accusing her of provoking violence in the state and employing her party workers and police for the same. Last month, he had asserted that Mamata-led government won`t last till 2021. "The head of Bengali community is down with shame not only in India but across the world just because of the present scenario in West Bengal," he had said. TMC and other opposition parties have been claiming that BJP is trying to topple their governments formed in various states. On July 13, BJP leader Mukul Roy had said that as many as 107 MLAs of Congress, TMC and CPM will join the BJP. "A total of 107 West Bengal MLAs from CPM, Congress, and TMC will join the BJP," said Roy, while addressing a press conference.

Trinamool Congress to be swept away from West Bengal by 2021: Babul Supriyo

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

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

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

Incessant rainfall hits normal life in parts of West Bengal

In a massive crackdown on violence involving arms and explosives in the city, West Bengal police on Saturday conducted simultaneous raids and recovered 112 pieces of live bombs, six country-made weapons and arrested 399 people under specific and preventive sections.

"A simultaneous drive was held throughout Birbhum district and 112 pieces of live crude and socket bombs were recovered from - Nanoor (32), Labpur (40), Panrui (20), Sadaipur (9), Kankartala (9) and Rampurhat (2) - police station areas," said Superintendent of Police (SP) Shyam Singh.

"399 persons - 65 persons in specific cases, 228 persons in preventive sections and 106 persons against pending cases - were arrested," he added.

There has been a high in the number of violent crimes involving arms and explosives in the region.

Just recently, a blast had taken place at the old building of Panchayat Deputy health centre in Birbhum.

"Six country-made arms and ammunition were also recovered, one each from Sadaipur, Rampurhat, Dubrajpur, Nalhati, Mohammad Bazar and Labpur police station area," Singh said.&nbsp;

In a massive crackdown on violence involving arms and explosives in the city, West Bengal police on Saturday conducted simultaneous raids and recovered 112 pieces of live bombs, six country-made weapons and arrested 399 people under specific and preventive sections.

In a massive crackdown on violence involving arms and explosives in the city, West Bengal police on Saturday conducted simultaneous raids and recovered 112 pieces of live bombs, six country-made weapons and arrested 399 people under specific and preventive sections. "A simultaneous drive was held throughout Birbhum district and 112 pieces of live crude and socket bombs were recovered from - Nanoor (32), Labpur (40), Panrui (20), Sadaipur (9), Kankartala (9) and Rampurhat (2) - police station areas," said Superintendent of Police (SP) Shyam Singh. "399 persons - 65 persons in specific cases, 228 persons in preventive sections and 106 persons against pending cases - were arrested," he added. There has been a high in the number of violent crimes involving arms and explosives in the region. Just recently, a blast had taken place at the old building of Panchayat Deputy health centre in Birbhum. "Six country-made arms and ammunition were also recovered, one each from Sadaipur, Rampurhat, Dubrajpur, Nalhati, Mohammad Bazar and Labpur police station area," Singh said.

West Bengal: 112 live bombs recovered, 399 arrested in simultaneous raids

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

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

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

BJP MP accuses TMC leaders of taking cut-money

Banned terror outfit <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jamaat-ul-mujahideen-bangladesh-planning-to-set-up-permanent-bases-in-eastern-states-mha-221625">Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh</a> is using some Madrasas in Burdwan and Murshidabad district of West Bengal for radicalisation and recruitment activities, Union Home Ministry said on Tuesday.

The ministry also expressed concern to the West Bengal government over the recent political violence in the state.

"There are some inputs of Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh using some Madrasas in Burdwan and Murshidabad for radicalisation and recruitment activities," Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy said in a written reply in Lok Sabha.

He said relevant inputs in this regard are regularly shared with the state governments and agencies concerned with the advice to take appropriate action.

"The government has notified Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh or Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen India or Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Hindustan and all its manifestations as a Terrorist Organisation on May 23 this year in terms of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967," he said.

The Minister said that information has been received about a number of incidents of violence before, during and after the General Election-2019 resulting in deaths and injuries to several people including political workers in West Bengal.

"Concern on the issue was shared by the government with the state government and an advisory was issued on June 9, 2019, asking the state government to maintain law and order, peace and public tranquillity in the state," he said.&nbsp;

Banned terror outfit Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh is using some Madrasas in Burdwan and Murshidabad district of West Bengal for radicalisation and recruitment activities, Union Home Ministry said on Tuesday.

Banned terror outfit Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh is using some Madrasas in Burdwan and Murshidabad district of West Bengal for radicalisation and recruitment activities, Union Home Ministry said on Tuesday. The ministry also expressed concern to the West Bengal government over the recent political violence in the state. "There are some inputs of Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh using some Madrasas in Burdwan and Murshidabad for radicalisation and recruitment activities," Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy said in a written reply in Lok Sabha. He said relevant inputs in this regard are regularly shared with the state governments and agencies concerned with the advice to take appropriate action. "The government has notified Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh or Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen India or Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Hindustan and all its manifestations as a Terrorist Organisation on May 23 this year in terms of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967," he said. The Minister said that information has been received about a number of incidents of violence before, during and after the General Election-2019 resulting in deaths and injuries to several people including political workers in West Bengal. "Concern on the issue was shared by the government with the state government and an advisory was issued on June 9, 2019, asking the state government to maintain law and order, peace and public tranquillity in the state," he said.

Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh using some Madrasas in West Bengal for radicalisation: Home Ministry

The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday extended interim protection from arrest to former Kolkata police commissioner Rajeev Kumar till July 22 in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam.

A single judge bench of Justice Asha Arora posted hearing in the main petition on July 15 and a modification plea on him travelling outside Kolkata on July 22.

Kumar had moved the High Court seeking quashing of a CBI notice asking him to appear before the agency in connection with the multi-crore chit fund scam.

A lower court in Kolkata had turned down Kumar's anticipatory bail plea seeking an extension of protection from arrest and recommended he approach the Calcutta High Court or trial courts in Bengal to "seek appropriate remedy".

Kumar, who headed the West Bengal Police's Special Investigation Team (SIT) that probed the Saradha scam, is accused of tampering with evidence.

An unprecedented chain of events had unfolded on February 3 when a CBI team reached Kumar's residence to question him.

The investigation agency team was detained by Kolkata Police, were taken to a police station and later released.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had also visited the officer's home.&nbsp;

The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday extended interim protection from arrest to former Kolkata police commissioner Rajeev Kumar till July 22 in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam.

The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday extended interim protection from arrest to former Kolkata police commissioner Rajeev Kumar till July 22 in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam. A single judge bench of Justice Asha Arora posted hearing in the main petition on July 15 and a modification plea on him travelling outside Kolkata on July 22. Kumar had moved the High Court seeking quashing of a CBI notice asking him to appear before the agency in connection with the multi-crore chit fund scam. A lower court in Kolkata had turned down Kumar's anticipatory bail plea seeking an extension of protection from arrest and recommended he approach the Calcutta High Court or trial courts in Bengal to "seek appropriate remedy". Kumar, who headed the West Bengal Police's Special Investigation Team (SIT) that probed the Saradha scam, is accused of tampering with evidence. An unprecedented chain of events had unfolded on February 3 when a CBI team reached Kumar's residence to question him. The investigation agency team was detained by Kolkata Police, were taken to a police station and later released. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had also visited the officer's home.

Saradha scam: Calcutta High Court extends interim protection from arrest to Rajeev Kumar

Thunderstorm accompanied with gusty winds (30-40 km) at isolated places very likely over West Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh, predicted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-meteorological-department-issues-red-code-warning-for-delhi-223092">India Meteorological Department</a> (IMD) on Thursday.&nbsp;

Besides, the weather forecasting agency has given thunderstorm and lightning warning for Bihar, Odisha and Jharkhand.

Heavy to very heavy rainfall with extremely heavy falls at isolated places very likely over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim added IMD in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.

&nbsp;"Heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over Konkan, Goa, Assam and Meghalaya and heavy rainfall at isolated places over Kerala, Bihar, Arunachal Pradesh, Coastal Karnataka, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura."

Rough sea conditions are likely to prevail over southwest and adjoining west-central Arabian Sea. The organisation has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas.

Thunderstorm accompanied with gusty winds (30-40 km) at isolated places very likely over West Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh, predicted India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday.

Thunderstorm accompanied with gusty winds (30-40 km) at isolated places very likely over West Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh, predicted India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday. Besides, the weather forecasting agency has given thunderstorm and lightning warning for Bihar, Odisha and Jharkhand. Heavy to very heavy rainfall with extremely heavy falls at isolated places very likely over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim added IMD in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin. "Heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over Konkan, Goa, Assam and Meghalaya and heavy rainfall at isolated places over Kerala, Bihar, Arunachal Pradesh, Coastal Karnataka, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura." Rough sea conditions are likely to prevail over southwest and adjoining west-central Arabian Sea. The organisation has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas.

India Meteorological Department issues thunderstorm warning for Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh

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

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

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

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

Lashing out at the BJP rule at the Centre, Trinamul Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday claimed that the country reeled from a “super Emergency” in the past five years.

India Watch: Mamata's double standards on emergency

As many as 78 bombs were seized from Paschim Bardhaman and North 24 Parganas districts in West Bengal on Monday.

Eight people have been arrested in connection with one of the cases, the police said.

While 60 bombs were seized from Bhatpara area of North 24 Parganas district, the police recovered 18 bombs from Kandeswar area of Durgapur city in Paschim Bardhaman district of the state.

Barrackpore Commissioner of Police Manoj Kumar said, "We recovered 60 bombs from Gali number 6 in Kankinara under Bhatpara police station. We have arrested eight people and further investigation is underway."

A bomb disposal squad destroyed all 18 bombs at an isolated place in Durgapur city, but no arrest has been reported so far.

Two persons were killed while several others were injured on Thursday after clashes broke out between two groups suspected to be affiliated to ruling TMC and BJP in Bhatpara, which comes under the Barrackpore Lok Sabha constituency.

Prohibitory orders under Section 144 CrPC were imposed in the affected areas to restore order.

Both TMC and BJP have blamed each other for the violence.West Bengal witnessed violence during and after the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

As many as 78 bombs were seized from Paschim Bardhaman and North 24 Parganas districts in West Bengal on Monday. Eight people have been arrested in connection with one of the cases, the police said.

As many as 78 bombs were seized from Paschim Bardhaman and North 24 Parganas districts in West Bengal on Monday. Eight people have been arrested in connection with one of the cases, the police said. While 60 bombs were seized from Bhatpara area of North 24 Parganas district, the police recovered 18 bombs from Kandeswar area of Durgapur city in Paschim Bardhaman district of the state. Barrackpore Commissioner of Police Manoj Kumar said, "We recovered 60 bombs from Gali number 6 in Kankinara under Bhatpara police station. We have arrested eight people and further investigation is underway." A bomb disposal squad destroyed all 18 bombs at an isolated place in Durgapur city, but no arrest has been reported so far. Two persons were killed while several others were injured on Thursday after clashes broke out between two groups suspected to be affiliated to ruling TMC and BJP in Bhatpara, which comes under the Barrackpore Lok Sabha constituency. Prohibitory orders under Section 144 CrPC were imposed in the affected areas to restore order. Both TMC and BJP have blamed each other for the violence.West Bengal witnessed violence during and after the Lok Sabha elections.

78 bombs seized in two districts in West Bengal, 8 arrested

The Bhartiya Janata Party’s central delegation, comprising three senior leaders, SS Ahluwalia, Satpal Singh and BD Ram visited the tensed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-fresh-clashes-break-out-in-trouble-hit-bhatpara-many-injured-229502">Bhatpara area of North 24 Parganas district</a> in West Bengal on Saturday.

The fact-finding committee met the family members of the two deceased and also interacted with the locals.&nbsp;

After meeting the family members, the delegation announced a compensation of Rs10 lakh for the deceased’s family. “We met the family members of the deceased. They showed us the bullets too. They were killed in police firing, but police are just refusing to accept it. We have announced a compensation of Rs10 lakh for the family members. &nbsp;We also visited the tensed areas and spoke to the locals. This is a complete failure of the administration who have failed to restore peace in the state,” said Ahluwalia.&nbsp;

Tension was reported once again in Bhatpara after the BJP delegation left for Kolkata. Locals assembled to see the delegation violating section 144 CrPC imposed in the area. To disperse locals, police once again had to resort to lathi-charge which injuring two persons. &nbsp;

A day ago, the West Bengal government transferred the Commissioner of Barrackpore Commissionerate and posted IPS Manoj Verma as the new Commissioner. While he visited all the affected area on foot with a huge contingent of force, he also checked police pickets laid across the area.&nbsp;

“The situation is under control. The priority is to restore the law and order situation and we are focusing on that. There are no reports of fresh violence, we are urging all to maintain peace,” said Manoj Verma.&nbsp;

On Thursday, massive clashes erupted at Bhatpara ahead of the inauguration of the Bhatpara police station. Miscreants lobbed crude bombs and pelted stones at the police. The inaugural ceremony was to be attended by the West Bengal Police’s Director General. However, the ceremony was cut short and DGP returned to Kolkata.&nbsp;

Thursday’s clashes left two persons dead and four others seriously injured. The two deceased were identified as Rambabu Shaw and Dharambir Shaw – both said to be locals. The two suffered bullet injuries and were declared dead at the hospital. Four others are undergoing treatment at the local hospital.

The Bhartiya Janata Party’s central delegation, comprising three senior leaders, SS Ahluwalia, Satpal Singh and BD Ram visited the tensed Bhatpara area of North 24 Parganas district in West Bengal on Saturday.

The Bhartiya Janata Party’s central delegation, comprising three senior leaders, SS Ahluwalia, Satpal Singh and BD Ram visited the tensed Bhatpara area of North 24 Parganas district in West Bengal on Saturday. The fact-finding committee met the family members of the two deceased and also interacted with the locals. After meeting the family members, the delegation announced a compensation of Rs10 lakh for the deceased’s family. “We met the family members of the deceased. They showed us the bullets too. They were killed in police firing, but police are just refusing to accept it. We have announced a compensation of Rs10 lakh for the family members. We also visited the tensed areas and spoke to the locals. This is a complete failure of the administration who have failed to restore peace in the state,” said Ahluwalia. Tension was reported once again in Bhatpara after the BJP delegation left for Kolkata. Locals assembled to see the delegation violating section 144 CrPC imposed in the area. To disperse locals, police once again had to resort to lathi-charge which injuring two persons. A day ago, the West Bengal government transferred the Commissioner of Barrackpore Commissionerate and posted IPS Manoj Verma as the new Commissioner. While he visited all the affected area on foot with a huge contingent of force, he also checked police pickets laid across the area. “The situation is under control. The priority is to restore the law and order situation and we are focusing on that. There are no reports of fresh violence, we are urging all to maintain peace,” said Manoj Verma. On Thursday, massive clashes erupted at Bhatpara ahead of the inauguration of the Bhatpara police station. Miscreants lobbed crude bombs and pelted stones at the police. The inaugural ceremony was to be attended by the West Bengal Police’s Director General. However, the ceremony was cut short and DGP returned to Kolkata. Thursday’s clashes left two persons dead and four others seriously injured. The two deceased were identified as Rambabu Shaw and Dharambir Shaw – both said to be locals. The two suffered bullet injuries and were declared dead at the hospital. Four others are undergoing treatment at the local hospital.

West Bengal: BJP central delegation visits tension-marred Bhatpara

Several persons were injured as fresh clashes were reported in trouble-torn Bhatpara area in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal Saturday as rival groups violated Section 144 imposed there.

Police had to resort to lathi charge to disperse the crowd.

The incident happened moments after a three-member BJP central delegation left the area after their scheduled visit.

As the delegation left, two groups, one led by the BJP and other by TMC, engaged in pitched battle as both sides hurled countrymade bombs and stones at each other.

Several persons were injured in the incident.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> West Bengal: Slogans of "Bengal Police haye haye! Mamata Banerjee haye haye!" raised during the visit of BJP delegation to Bhatpara, North 24 Parganas district. <a href="https://t.co/gVV3WoWgsl">pic.twitter.com/gVV3WoWgsl</a>
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Bhatpara had witnessed clashes between rival groups suspected to be affiliated to TMC and BJP on Thursday in which two persons had died.&nbsp;

A three-member BJP delegation, led by former Union minister S S Ahluwalia, arrived at trouble-torn Bhatpara on Saturday, where two people were killed and seven injured in clashes between two groups believed to be affiliated to the TMC and the BJP.

The BJP central leadership had asked the team led by Ahluwalia, an MP from West Bengal, to visit Bhatpara in North 24 Pargana district.

Two people had died and seven others injured in clashes in Bhatpara between the groups suspected to be attached to TMC and BJP on Thursday. Section 144 has been imposed by the administration in the wake of the clashes.

Earlier in the day, a joint delegation of CPI(M) and Congress headed by Leader of Opposition Abdul Mannan and CPI(M) leader Sujan Chakraborty visited the troubled areas of Baruipara, Jagaddal, Bhatpara. They demanded a CBI inquiry into the killings.

On Friday, the BJP leadership had also demanded a CBI inquiry into the incident to bring out the truth.

A TMC citadel for long, Bhatpara has been witnessing frequent post-poll violence between the rival parties.

The fight intensified ever since TMC MLA Arjun Singh crossed over to the BJP and was elected to Lok Sabha from Barrackpore. Bhatpara comes under the Barrackpore Lok Sabha constituency.

In the bypoll to the Bhatpara Assembly seat that were held along with the Lok Sabha elections, Arjun Singh's son Pawan Singh had defeated TMC candidate and former state minister Madan Mitra.&nbsp;

Several persons were injured as fresh clashes were reported in trouble-torn Bhatpara area in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal Saturday as rival groups violated Section 144 imposed there.

Several persons were injured as fresh clashes were reported in trouble-torn Bhatpara area in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal Saturday as rival groups violated Section 144 imposed there. Police had to resort to lathi charge to disperse the crowd. The incident happened moments after a three-member BJP central delegation left the area after their scheduled visit. As the delegation left, two groups, one led by the BJP and other by TMC, engaged in pitched battle as both sides hurled countrymade bombs and stones at each other. Several persons were injured in the incident. #WATCH West Bengal: Slogans of "Bengal Police haye haye! Mamata Banerjee haye haye!" raised during the visit of BJP delegation to Bhatpara, North 24 Parganas district. pic.twitter.com/gVV3WoWgsl — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2019 × Bhatpara had witnessed clashes between rival groups suspected to be affiliated to TMC and BJP on Thursday in which two persons had died. A three-member BJP delegation, led by former Union minister S S Ahluwalia, arrived at trouble-torn Bhatpara on Saturday, where two people were killed and seven injured in clashes between two groups believed to be affiliated to the TMC and the BJP. The BJP central leadership had asked the team led by Ahluwalia, an MP from West Bengal, to visit Bhatpara in North 24 Pargana district. Two people had died and seven others injured in clashes in Bhatpara between the groups suspected to be attached to TMC and BJP on Thursday. Section 144 has been imposed by the administration in the wake of the clashes. Earlier in the day, a joint delegation of CPI(M) and Congress headed by Leader of Opposition Abdul Mannan and CPI(M) leader Sujan Chakraborty visited the troubled areas of Baruipara, Jagaddal, Bhatpara. They demanded a CBI inquiry into the killings. On Friday, the BJP leadership had also demanded a CBI inquiry into the incident to bring out the truth. A TMC citadel for long, Bhatpara has been witnessing frequent post-poll violence between the rival parties. The fight intensified ever since TMC MLA Arjun Singh crossed over to the BJP and was elected to Lok Sabha from Barrackpore. Bhatpara comes under the Barrackpore Lok Sabha constituency. In the bypoll to the Bhatpara Assembly seat that were held along with the Lok Sabha elections, Arjun Singh's son Pawan Singh had defeated TMC candidate and former state minister Madan Mitra.

West Bengal: Fresh clashes break out in trouble-hit Bhatpara, many injured

After a record performance in Lok Sabha elections (18 seats / 40 per cent vote share), BJP has set an ambitious target of dislodging Mamata Banerjee from power in 2021 state elections. A weakened Left, a charged-up cadre, poor law and order situation and perceived excessive minority appeasement provide an opportunity for BJP.&nbsp;

Critics who were giving BJP not more than 8-10 seats in Lok Sabha were shocked at its tally of 18 seats (+16 vs 2014). It recorded a vote share jump of 23 per cent clearly emerging as the main opposition to Mamata overtaking the Left and benefitting from its collapse. Even if TMC and Congress would have contested together BJP would have still won 12 seats. TMC was leading in 161 Assembly seats, 16 more than majority and BJP in 123 as per trends.&nbsp;

The BJP did to TMC, what it did to Congress in 2014, successfully managing to brand Mamata as anti-Hindu and pro-minority community. It led to a sort of Hindu awakening in the state. BJP’s support among STs increased by 42 per cent (TMC -6 per cent), SCs by 37 per cent (TMC -11 per cent) and Gen / OBCs by 31 per cent (TMC -8 per cent). TMC, on the other hand, consolidated its supports among Muslims (+25 per cent) due to reverse polarisation.&nbsp;

After a record performance in Lok Sabha elections (18 seats / 40 per cent&nbsp;vote share), BJP has set an ambitious target of dislodging Mamata Banerjee from power in 2021 state elections. A weakened Left, a charged-up cadre, poor law and order situation and perceived excessive minority appeasement provide an opportunity for BJP.&nbsp;

Critics who were giving BJP not more than 8-10 seats in Lok Sabha were shocked at its tally of 18 seats (+16 vs 2014). It recorded a vote share jump of 23 per cent&nbsp;clearly emerging as the main opposition to Mamata overtaking the Left and benefitting from its collapse. Even if TMC and Congress would have contested together BJP would have still won 12 seats. TMC was leading in 161 Assembly seats, 16 more than majority and BJP in 123 as per trends.&nbsp;

The BJP did to TMC, what it did to Congress in 2014, successfully managing to brand Mamata as anti-Hindu and pro-minority community. It led to a sort of Hindu awakening in the state. BJP’s support among STs increased by 42 per cent (TMC -6 per cent), SCs by 37 per cent (TMC -11 per cent) and Gen / OBCs by 31 per cent (TMC -8 per cent). TMC, on the other hand, consolidated its supports among Muslims (+25 per cent) due to reverse polarisation.&nbsp; 
 
The BJP checkmated Mamata in her own brand of politics. Bengal has been a hotbed of class politics with not much role in caste politics. Left positioned itself as the champion of poor, downtrodden and minorities, though it was Bhadralok which held majority cabinet positions and power.&nbsp;

In 2009, for the first time, Mamata flirted with caste politics. A strategy was put in place by Mukul Roy (now in BJP) to divide the SC vote (19 per cent of the population) by wooing the influential Matua community. 55-60 per cent of the SC population used to vote for Left Front. Mamata became a lifetime member of Matua Mahasangha in December 2009.&nbsp;

The TMC received 48 per cent of Matua and 46 per cent of other SC votes in 2011 state elections in which Mamata displaced the 34-year rule of Left. Modi-Shah duo also set their eyes on this vote bank. The community’s spiritual family split into two groups, one backing the BJP and other the TMC after the death of its leader. BJP received strong support from SC voters in Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

Ten years is a good enough time to develop anti-incumbency against any government. Mamata’s constant conflicts with the central government are also impacting state government’s performance. Many voters could be swayed, thinking that same government in the Centre and the state is good for development. Mamata is seen as doing minority appeasement. This has upset even the educated Hindus who do not believe in caste/religion politics.&nbsp;

She has lost her cool on many occasions and pressure is clearly visible on her face. The BJP is enjoying all this tamasha. Recently, a video of Mamata was doing the rounds wherein she stopped her vehicle after hearing ‘Jai Shree Ram’ chants and was seen asking officials to take action.&nbsp;

Her handling of the doctors’ strike which has paralysed the health facilities in the state, with 700 doctors resigning at last count, has evoked nation-wide rage among the medical fraternity. Mamata’s statement that ‘outsiders’ had entered medical colleges to create disturbances and the agitation was a conspiracy by the CPM and the BJP has added fuel to the fire. Mamata has accepted all demands of the doctors requesting them to return to the office which they have rejected.

Her statement that if you are in Bengal you have to speak Bangla is an attempt to create a wedge between locals (Bengalis) and outsiders (non-Bengalis) and brand BJP as a party of Hindi speaking North Indians. She is trying to invoke the Bengali pride. As per estimates, 15 per cent&nbsp;of the population of Bengal consists of non-Bengalis which are likely to further consolidate behind the BJP.

The BJP enjoys the support of half of the Hindu population which translates into 35 per cent vote share, its core vote now. Many cadres of Left have switched over to BJP, demoralized by their existential crisis, and have given the much-needed last mile connectivity which it was missing earlier. The deaths of workers (which are highly condemnable) after elections shows that damage has been inflicted on both sides and BJP workers are not taking it lying down like earlier. The organizational structure has been emboldened. &nbsp;

However, challenges remain. PM Modi factor played a big role in the BJP’s performance in Lok Sabha. About one-third of the votes received by BJP were due to PM Modi. In state elections, this factor may not hold to be that strong like it was seen in Delhi and Bihar state elections in 2015. PM Modi held 17 rallies and road-shows in Bengal. He may not be able to campaign with same vigour in state elections due to Prime Ministerial duties.

The elections are increasingly becoming personality oriented and BJP lacks a state level leader who can match Mamata. It needs to project a CM face soon and develop it over the next two years. Voters are also increasingly differentiating between state and national elections as witnessed in Rajasthan, Odisha, MP and Chhattisgarh.&nbsp;

In Lok Sabha, people voted to elect a PM, which gave BJP a boost. In Vidhan Sabha people will be voting to elect a CM, thus negating this boost factor. In 2016 state polls, BJP’s vote share declined by 7 per cent in absolute terms and 40 per cent in relative terms which it has to be wary of.&nbsp;

An alliance between Left and Congress could be potentially damaging as this combine could appeal to a section of voters. Mamata has appointed political strategist Prashant Kishore as her campaign manager exhibiting her first sign of weakness. The BJP has to refrain from pressures to invoke President’s Rule in the state which will act as a sympathy factor for Mamata. It needs to keep up the ante, manage defections and wait for Mamata to commit errors under pressure.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-bjp-s-audacious-target-2763265">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

After a record performance in Lok Sabha elections (18 seats / 40 per cent vote share), BJP has set an ambitious target of dislodging Mamata Banerjee from power in 2021 state elections.

After a record performance in Lok Sabha elections (18 seats / 40 per cent vote share), BJP has set an ambitious target of dislodging Mamata Banerjee from power in 2021 state elections. A weakened Left, a charged-up cadre, poor law and order situation and perceived excessive minority appeasement provide an opportunity for BJP. Critics who were giving BJP not more than 8-10 seats in Lok Sabha were shocked at its tally of 18 seats (+16 vs 2014). It recorded a vote share jump of 23 per cent clearly emerging as the main opposition to Mamata overtaking the Left and benefitting from its collapse. Even if TMC and Congress would have contested together BJP would have still won 12 seats. TMC was leading in 161 Assembly seats, 16 more than majority and BJP in 123 as per trends. The BJP did to TMC, what it did to Congress in 2014, successfully managing to brand Mamata as anti-Hindu and pro-minority community. It led to a sort of Hindu awakening in the state. BJP’s support among STs increased by 42 per cent (TMC -6 per cent), SCs by 37 per cent (TMC -11 per cent) and Gen / OBCs by 31 per cent (TMC -8 per cent). TMC, on the other hand, consolidated its supports among Muslims (+25 per cent) due to reverse polarisation. After a record performance in Lok Sabha elections (18 seats / 40 per cent vote share), BJP has set an ambitious target of dislodging Mamata Banerjee from power in 2021 state elections. A weakened Left, a charged-up cadre, poor law and order situation and perceived excessive minority appeasement provide an opportunity for BJP. Critics who were giving BJP not more than 8-10 seats in Lok Sabha were shocked at its tally of 18 seats (+16 vs 2014). It recorded a vote share jump of 23 per cent clearly emerging as the main opposition to Mamata overtaking the Left and benefitting from its collapse. Even if TMC and Congress would have contested together BJP would have still won 12 seats. TMC was leading in 161 Assembly seats, 16 more than majority and BJP in 123 as per trends. The BJP did to TMC, what it did to Congress in 2014, successfully managing to brand Mamata as anti-Hindu and pro-minority community. It led to a sort of Hindu awakening in the state. BJP’s support among STs increased by 42 per cent (TMC -6 per cent), SCs by 37 per cent (TMC -11 per cent) and Gen / OBCs by 31 per cent (TMC -8 per cent). TMC, on the other hand, consolidated its supports among Muslims (+25 per cent) due to reverse polarisation. The BJP checkmated Mamata in her own brand of politics. Bengal has been a hotbed of class politics with not much role in caste politics. Left positioned itself as the champion of poor, downtrodden and minorities, though it was Bhadralok which held majority cabinet positions and power. In 2009, for the first time, Mamata flirted with caste politics. A strategy was put in place by Mukul Roy (now in BJP) to divide the SC vote (19 per cent of the population) by wooing the influential Matua community. 55-60 per cent of the SC population used to vote for Left Front. Mamata became a lifetime member of Matua Mahasangha in December 2009. The TMC received 48 per cent of Matua and 46 per cent of other SC votes in 2011 state elections in which Mamata displaced the 34-year rule of Left. Modi-Shah duo also set their eyes on this vote bank. The community’s spiritual family split into two groups, one backing the BJP and other the TMC after the death of its leader. BJP received strong support from SC voters in Lok Sabha. Ten years is a good enough time to develop anti-incumbency against any government. Mamata’s constant conflicts with the central government are also impacting state government’s performance. Many voters could be swayed, thinking that same government in the Centre and the state is good for development. Mamata is seen as doing minority appeasement. This has upset even the educated Hindus who do not believe in caste/religion politics. She has lost her cool on many occasions and pressure is clearly visible on her face. The BJP is enjoying all this tamasha. Recently, a video of Mamata was doing the rounds wherein she stopped her vehicle after hearing ‘Jai Shree Ram’ chants and was seen asking officials to take action. Her handling of the doctors’ strike which has paralysed the health facilities in the state, with 700 doctors resigning at last count, has evoked nation-wide rage among the medical fraternity. Mamata’s statement that ‘outsiders’ had entered medical colleges to create disturbances and the agitation was a conspiracy by the CPM and the BJP has added fuel to the fire. Mamata has accepted all demands of the doctors requesting them to return to the office which they have rejected. Her statement that if you are in Bengal you have to speak Bangla is an attempt to create a wedge between locals (Bengalis) and outsiders (non-Bengalis) and brand BJP as a party of Hindi speaking North Indians. She is trying to invoke the Bengali pride. As per estimates, 15 per cent of the population of Bengal consists of non-Bengalis which are likely to further consolidate behind the BJP. The BJP enjoys the support of half of the Hindu population which translates into 35 per cent vote share, its core vote now. Many cadres of Left have switched over to BJP, demoralized by their existential crisis, and have given the much-needed last mile connectivity which it was missing earlier. The deaths of workers (which are highly condemnable) after elections shows that damage has been inflicted on both sides and BJP workers are not taking it lying down like earlier. The organizational structure has been emboldened. However, challenges remain. PM Modi factor played a big role in the BJP’s performance in Lok Sabha. About one-third of the votes received by BJP were due to PM Modi. In state elections, this factor may not hold to be that strong like it was seen in Delhi and Bihar state elections in 2015. PM Modi held 17 rallies and road-shows in Bengal. He may not be able to campaign with same vigour in state elections due to Prime Ministerial duties. The elections are increasingly becoming personality oriented and BJP lacks a state level leader who can match Mamata. It needs to project a CM face soon and develop it over the next two years. Voters are also increasingly differentiating between state and national elections as witnessed in Rajasthan, Odisha, MP and Chhattisgarh. In Lok Sabha, people voted to elect a PM, which gave BJP a boost. In Vidhan Sabha people will be voting to elect a CM, thus negating this boost factor. In 2016 state polls, BJP’s vote share declined by 7 per cent in absolute terms and 40 per cent in relative terms which it has to be wary of. An alliance between Left and Congress could be potentially damaging as this combine could appeal to a section of voters. Mamata has appointed political strategist Prashant Kishore as her campaign manager exhibiting her first sign of weakness. The BJP has to refrain from pressures to invoke President’s Rule in the state which will act as a sympathy factor for Mamata. It needs to keep up the ante, manage defections and wait for Mamata to commit errors under pressure. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

BJP has set an ambitious goal of dislodging Mamata Banerjee from power

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday wrote to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi expressing her inability to attend Wednesday's meeting of leaders of political parties.

The meeting has been convened&nbsp;by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the issue of "one nation one election".

Earlier, Banerjee had declined to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Modi on May 23, objecting to families of BJP workers allegedly killed in political violence in the state being invited to the function.

The Lok Sabha polls witnessed a heated verbal duel between Modi and Banerjee who spearheaded the campaigns of their parties in West Bengal.

Besides winning 303 Lok Sabha seats on his own (the NDA tally being 352), the BJP came up with a surprising poll show in West Bengal by bagging 18 of the state's 42 seats, only four less than the TMC's 22.

The saffron party leapt from two seats in the state in 2014 to 18, while the TMC slided to 22 from 34. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday wrote to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi expressing her inability to attend Wednesday's meeting of leaders of political parties.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday wrote to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi expressing her inability to attend Wednesday's meeting of leaders of political parties. The meeting has been convened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the issue of "one nation one election". Earlier, Banerjee had declined to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Modi on May 23, objecting to families of BJP workers allegedly killed in political violence in the state being invited to the function. The Lok Sabha polls witnessed a heated verbal duel between Modi and Banerjee who spearheaded the campaigns of their parties in West Bengal. Besides winning 303 Lok Sabha seats on his own (the NDA tally being 352), the BJP came up with a surprising poll show in West Bengal by bagging 18 of the state's 42 seats, only four less than the TMC's 22. The saffron party leapt from two seats in the state in 2014 to 18, while the TMC slided to 22 from 34. (With inputs from agencies)

Mamata Banerjee not to attend all-party meeting on Wednesday

A day after a Trinamool Congress legislator and 15 councillors of the party in West Bengal joined the BJP, chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday said she doesn't want thieves in the party. 
 
Furthermore, she also wrote a letter to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi and informed him that she will be unable to attend the meeting of Presidents of all political parties, called by the Prime Minister, tomorrow.

"TMC is not a weak party. I don't care if 15-20 councillors leave the party after accepting cash. If party MLAs want to leave they can. We don't want thieves in our party. If one person leaves I will prepare 500 more," said Mamata.

Last month, three MLAs from West Bengal, including Trinamool Congress-turned-BJP leader Mukul Roy's son Subhrangshu Roy, along with more than 50 councillors had joined the Saffron party.&nbsp;

In Lok Sabha polls 2019, BJP inflicted a massive blow to the ruling TMC by winning 18 of the 42 parliamentary constituencies, in contrast with the figure of 2 seats in the 2014 general elections.

The Mamata Banerjee-led TMC although retained the state, it won just 22 seats, as against 34 in 2014.

(With inputs from agencies)

A day after a Trinamool Congress legislator and 15 councillors of the party in West Bengal joined the BJP, chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday said she doesn't want thieves in the party.

A day after a Trinamool Congress legislator and 15 councillors of the party in West Bengal joined the BJP, chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday said she doesn't want thieves in the party. Furthermore, she also wrote a letter to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi and informed him that she will be unable to attend the meeting of Presidents of all political parties, called by the Prime Minister, tomorrow. "TMC is not a weak party. I don't care if 15-20 councillors leave the party after accepting cash. If party MLAs want to leave they can. We don't want thieves in our party. If one person leaves I will prepare 500 more," said Mamata. Last month, three MLAs from West Bengal, including Trinamool Congress-turned-BJP leader Mukul Roy's son Subhrangshu Roy, along with more than 50 councillors had joined the Saffron party. In Lok Sabha polls 2019, BJP inflicted a massive blow to the ruling TMC by winning 18 of the 42 parliamentary constituencies, in contrast with the figure of 2 seats in the 2014 general elections. The Mamata Banerjee-led TMC although retained the state, it won just 22 seats, as against 34 in 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

'I don't care if 15-20 leave the party after accepting cash,' says Mamata Banerjee

Juniors doctors in West Bengal have resumed work at all hospitals providing relief to patients after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-assurances-by-chief-minister-mamata-banerjee-agitating-doctors-call-off-strike-228076">week-long stir that had disrupted healthcare services</a>.

"Most of our colleagues have resumed work and they are helping the seniors in delivering regular services in the outpatient departments (OPD) since Tuesday morning," a spokesperson of a joint forum of junior doctors told media.

The patient turnout was high at all the hospitals, including the Nil Ratan Sircar (NRS) Medical College and Hospital, which was the epicentre of the junior doctors' agitation.

"It is a relief for us. We are poor and have no other option but to go to government hospitals. The stir had impacted our treatment. I am happy that it has been called off," Ariful Haque from Malda district, who regularly visits the NRS hospital for the treatment of his brother's cardiac ailments, said.

The joint forum of regional junior doctors on Monday evening called off the ongoing impasse after holding talks with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.&nbsp;

The delegation said they were satisfied with the meeting and measures proposed by the government.&nbsp;The chief minister directed Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma to deploy a nodal police officer in every hospital.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-strikes-end-supreme-court-defers-hearing-on-security-of-doctors-keeps-open-larger-issue-of-their-safety-228216">Supreme Court deferred the hearing</a> on a plea seeking protection of doctors in government hospitals, saying since doctors have called off their strike in West Bengal and other states, there is no urgency to hear the matter.

Juniors doctors in West Bengal have resumed work at all hospitals providing relief to patients after a week-long stir that had disrupted healthcare services. "Most of our colleagues have resumed work and they are helping the seniors in delivering regular services in the outpatient departments (OPD) since Tuesday morning," a spokesperson of a joint forum of junior doctors told media.

Juniors doctors in West Bengal have resumed work at all hospitals providing relief to patients after a week-long stir that had disrupted healthcare services. "Most of our colleagues have resumed work and they are helping the seniors in delivering regular services in the outpatient departments (OPD) since Tuesday morning," a spokesperson of a joint forum of junior doctors told media. The patient turnout was high at all the hospitals, including the Nil Ratan Sircar (NRS) Medical College and Hospital, which was the epicentre of the junior doctors' agitation. "It is a relief for us. We are poor and have no other option but to go to government hospitals. The stir had impacted our treatment. I am happy that it has been called off," Ariful Haque from Malda district, who regularly visits the NRS hospital for the treatment of his brother's cardiac ailments, said. The joint forum of regional junior doctors on Monday evening called off the ongoing impasse after holding talks with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The delegation said they were satisfied with the meeting and measures proposed by the government. The chief minister directed Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma to deploy a nodal police officer in every hospital. The Supreme Court deferred the hearing on a plea seeking protection of doctors in government hospitals, saying since doctors have called off their strike in West Bengal and other states, there is no urgency to hear the matter.

West Bengal: Junior doctors resume work, high patient turnout at all hospitals

The Supreme Court on Monday said it will hear on June 18 a plea seeking safety and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hospitals-in-delhi-to-join-doctors-strike-call-today-227805">security of doctors in government hospitals</a> across the country.

A vacation bench of Justices Deepak Gupta and Surya Kant agreed to list the matter for Tuesday after the counsel appearing for the petitioner, advocate Alakh Alok Srivastava, sought urgent hearing.

The plea was filed on Friday in the wake of protests by doctors in West Bengal against assault on their colleagues by the family of a patient, who died on Monday night.

The petition has also sought directions to Union ministries of home affairs and health and West Bengal to depute government-appointed security personnel at all state-run hospitals across the country to ensure safety and security of doctors.

Due to the protests, the healthcare services in the country have been badly disrupted and many people are dying because of absence of doctors, the plea said.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Monday said it will hear on June 18 a plea seeking safety and security of doctors in government hospitals across the country. A vacation bench of Justices Deepak Gupta and Surya Kant agreed to list the matter for Tuesday after the counsel appearing for the petitioner, advocate Alakh Alok Srivastava, sought urgent hearing.

The Supreme Court on Monday said it will hear on June 18 a plea seeking safety and security of doctors in government hospitals across the country. A vacation bench of Justices Deepak Gupta and Surya Kant agreed to list the matter for Tuesday after the counsel appearing for the petitioner, advocate Alakh Alok Srivastava, sought urgent hearing. The plea was filed on Friday in the wake of protests by doctors in West Bengal against assault on their colleagues by the family of a patient, who died on Monday night. The petition has also sought directions to Union ministries of home affairs and health and West Bengal to depute government-appointed security personnel at all state-run hospitals across the country to ensure safety and security of doctors. Due to the protests, the healthcare services in the country have been badly disrupted and many people are dying because of absence of doctors, the plea said.

Supreme Court to hear plea for safety, security of doctors at government hospitals on June 18

The protesting doctors in West Bengal on Monday agreed to withdraw their week-long stir after Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced steps to scale up security at hospitals.

India Watch: Junior doctors ends strike in West Bengal after meeting Mamata Banerjee

The joint forum of regional junior doctors on Monday evening called off the ongoing impasse after holding <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-talks-with-chief-minister-mamata-banerjee-west-bengal-doctors-set-to-call-off-strike-228009">talks with West Bengal Chief Minister</a> Mamata Banerjee.&nbsp;

The delegation said they were satisfied with the meeting and measures proposed by the government.&nbsp;

Junior doctors met West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday and apprised her of the problems they have been facing at medical colleges and hospitals in the state.

Banerjee was told that medical professionals have been working under tremendous fear. "We want exemplary punishment for those who assaulted NRS doctors," the joint forum of regional doctors told the chief minister today.

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Junior doctors of NRS hospital, Kolkata announce that they are calling off the strike. <a href="https://t.co/OGVbtToORH">pic.twitter.com/OGVbtToORH</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1140634502256947201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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According to reports, Banerjee during the meeting accepted the proposal of doctors to set up a Grievance Redressal Cell in government hospitals, news agency ANI reported.

She directed Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma to deploy a nodal police officer in every hospital.

"We have taken adequate measures, arrested five people involved in NRS hospital incident," she added.&nbsp;

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Junior doctors of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NRSMedicalCollege?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NRSMedicalCollege</a> &amp; Hospital, Kolkata: We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the CM. After an enormous movement, the meeting and discussions with our CM met a logical end. Considering everything we expect the govt to solve the issues as discussed in due time. <a href="https://t.co/QSF9NZc24E">pic.twitter.com/QSF9NZc24E</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1140636563367325696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Only two regional news channels were allowed to cover the meeting between Banerjee and junior doctors that took place at the state secretariat.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday agreed for media coverage of her meeting with two representatives from each Medical College of the state.

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Press Secy to WB Guv: He appreciates initiative taken by CM &amp; jr doctors to resolve the impasse. He hopes doctors will take up work of care&amp;treatment of patients as per high ideals of their profession&amp;also that state govt will take all steps committed in the meeting expeditiously <a href="https://t.co/VtayaaU9ub">https://t.co/VtayaaU9ub</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1140640038197190656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Medical professionals went on strike and took to protesting after two junior doctors at Kolkata's NRS hospital were allegedly attacked by the relative of a patient last Tuesday. The patient had died on June 10.

The unrest spilt over to other states, assuming a nationwide agitation.&nbsp;

The Indian Medical Association (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hospitals-in-delhi-to-join-doctors-strike-call-today-227805">IMA) on Monday began its strike</a> with the withdrawal of non-essential health services across the country in the wake of the recent assault on doctors in West Bengal.

The joint forum of regional junior doctors on Monday evening called off the ongoing impasse after holding talks with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The delegation said they were satisfied with the meeting and measures proposed by the government.

The joint forum of regional junior doctors on Monday evening called off the ongoing impasse after holding talks with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The delegation said they were satisfied with the meeting and measures proposed by the government. Junior doctors met West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday and apprised her of the problems they have been facing at medical colleges and hospitals in the state. Banerjee was told that medical professionals have been working under tremendous fear. "We want exemplary punishment for those who assaulted NRS doctors," the joint forum of regional doctors told the chief minister today. Junior doctors of NRS hospital, Kolkata announce that they are calling off the strike. pic.twitter.com/OGVbtToORH — ANI (@ANI) June 17, 2019 × According to reports, Banerjee during the meeting accepted the proposal of doctors to set up a Grievance Redressal Cell in government hospitals, news agency ANI reported. She directed Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma to deploy a nodal police officer in every hospital. "We have taken adequate measures, arrested five people involved in NRS hospital incident," she added. Junior doctors of #NRSMedicalCollege & Hospital, Kolkata: We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the CM. After an enormous movement, the meeting and discussions with our CM met a logical end. Considering everything we expect the govt to solve the issues as discussed in due time. pic.twitter.com/QSF9NZc24E — ANI (@ANI) June 17, 2019 × Only two regional news channels were allowed to cover the meeting between Banerjee and junior doctors that took place at the state secretariat. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday agreed for media coverage of her meeting with two representatives from each Medical College of the state. Press Secy to WB Guv: He appreciates initiative taken by CM & jr doctors to resolve the impasse. He hopes doctors will take up work of care&treatment of patients as per high ideals of their profession&also that state govt will take all steps committed in the meeting expeditiously https://t.co/VtayaaU9ub — ANI (@ANI) June 17, 2019 × Medical professionals went on strike and took to protesting after two junior doctors at Kolkata's NRS hospital were allegedly attacked by the relative of a patient last Tuesday. The patient had died on June 10. The unrest spilt over to other states, assuming a nationwide agitation. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) on Monday began its strike with the withdrawal of non-essential health services across the country in the wake of the recent assault on doctors in West Bengal.

After assurances by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, agitating doctors call off strike

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) on Monday began&nbsp;its strike&nbsp;with the withdrawal of non-essential health services across the country in the wake of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/protesting-doctors-say-cm-mamata-banerjee-free-to-choose-venue-but-meeting-should-be-held-in-open-227627">recent assault on doctors in West Bengal</a>.

The announcement of the strike by IMA&nbsp;came a day after Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan asked states to consider enacting specific legislation for protecting doctors and medical professionals from any form of violence.

The apex medical body, IMA, however, demanded a comprehensive central law in dealing with violence on doctors and healthcare staff, and in hospitals.&nbsp;

Security measures and the determinants leading to violence should also be addressed, it said in a statement.&nbsp;

Exemplary punishment for perpetrators of violence should be a component of the central law and suitable amendments should be brought in the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), the IMA said.

The IMA said all non-essential services, including outdoor patient department (OPD) services, will be withdrawn for 24 hours from 6am on Monday to 6am Tuesday.&nbsp;

Emergency and casualty services will continue to function, it said.

The medical body had launched a four-day nationwide protest from Friday and wrote to Union Home Minister Amit Shah demanding enactment of a central law to check violence against healthcare workers.&nbsp;

It had also called for a countrywide strike on June 17 with withdrawal of non-essential health services.&nbsp;

On Saturday, Vardhan, along with a letter to all chief ministers, also attached a copy of the Draft Act provided by the IMA --the Protection of Medical Service Persons and Medical Service Institutions (Prevention of Violence and Damage or Loss of Property) Act, 2017.

In its statement, the IMA said effective implementation of the central law has to be ensured by incorporating suitable clauses.&nbsp;

Nineteen states have already passed legislations in this regard and in 2016, an inter-ministerial committee's recommendations document was signed by the IMA with the central government, the medical body said.

Hospitals should be declared as "safe zones". Structured safety measures, including three-layer security, CCTV cameras and restriction of entry of visitors should be well defined and enforced uniformly across the country in all sectors, it said.

"Healthcare violence has its origin in high expectations, lack of infrastructure and inadequate human resources. Issues of medical profession involving doctor-patient relationship, effective communication regarding the nature of illness and professional counselling play a part as well. The IMA expects the government of India to provide for each of these components," according to the statement.

The situation in West Bengal is still grave and fear of violence is present in all medical colleges and major hospitals, the IMA claimed.&nbsp;

The violence following the attack on resident doctor Paribaha Mukherjee in West Bengal has been allowed to deteriorate into a major law and order situation, the medical body alleged.

"The crisis should be resolved to the satisfaction of the residents and the medical professionals of West Bengal. IMA proclaims solidarity with the resident doctors of West Bengal and appeals to the government of West Bengal to address and resolve the issue on war footing," the statement said.

Representatives from the IMA and Delhi Medical Association (DMA) had also called on Vardhan on Saturday.

Stressing further on the need for avoiding such incidents in future, Vardhan had said law enforcement should prevail so that doctors and clinical establishments discharge their duties and professional pursuit without fear of any violence.

"Strict action against any person who assaults them, must be ensured by the law enforcement agencies," he had emphasised.

Vardhan cited a letter dated July 7, 2017 sent by the Union Health Ministry to all chief secretaries of states which contains the decision taken by an Inter-Ministerial Committee constituted by the ministry to review the issues raised by IMA.

The committee, in its report, had recommended that the Health Ministry shall suggest to all state governments which do not have specific legislation to protect doctors and health professionals to consider one to strictly enforce the provisions of special legislation wherever they exist or enforce the IPC and CrPC provisions with vigour.

The draft of The Protection of Medical Service Persons and Medical Service Institutions (Prevention of Violence and Damage or Loss of Property) Act, 2017, circulated to the states, includes clauses on penalty and recovery in case of loss/damage to property.

Doctors at the Centre-run Lady Hardinge Medical College and Hospital, and RML Hospital, and Delhi government's healthcare facilities such as GTB Hospital, Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hospital, Sanjay Gandhi Memorial Hospital and DDU Hospital, boycotted work and held protests on Saturday.

However, emergency and ICU services were not hampered in these hospitals.

Resident doctors of AIIMS and Safdarjung Hospital, who resumed work after having boycotted it on Friday, Saturday have a 48-hour ultimatum to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to meet the demands of the state's agitating doctors, failing which they said they would go on an indefinite strike.

They attended patients wearing helmets and bandages on forehead as a sign of protest.

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) on Monday began its strike with the withdrawal of non-essential health services across the country in the wake of the recent assault on doctors in West Bengal.

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) on Monday began its strike with the withdrawal of non-essential health services across the country in the wake of the recent assault on doctors in West Bengal. The announcement of the strike by IMA came a day after Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan asked states to consider enacting specific legislation for protecting doctors and medical professionals from any form of violence. The apex medical body, IMA, however, demanded a comprehensive central law in dealing with violence on doctors and healthcare staff, and in hospitals. Security measures and the determinants leading to violence should also be addressed, it said in a statement. Exemplary punishment for perpetrators of violence should be a component of the central law and suitable amendments should be brought in the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), the IMA said. The IMA said all non-essential services, including outdoor patient department (OPD) services, will be withdrawn for 24 hours from 6am on Monday to 6am Tuesday. Emergency and casualty services will continue to function, it said. The medical body had launched a four-day nationwide protest from Friday and wrote to Union Home Minister Amit Shah demanding enactment of a central law to check violence against healthcare workers. It had also called for a countrywide strike on June 17 with withdrawal of non-essential health services. On Saturday, Vardhan, along with a letter to all chief ministers, also attached a copy of the Draft Act provided by the IMA --the Protection of Medical Service Persons and Medical Service Institutions (Prevention of Violence and Damage or Loss of Property) Act, 2017. In its statement, the IMA said effective implementation of the central law has to be ensured by incorporating suitable clauses. Nineteen states have already passed legislations in this regard and in 2016, an inter-ministerial committee's recommendations document was signed by the IMA with the central government, the medical body said. Hospitals should be declared as "safe zones". Structured safety measures, including three-layer security, CCTV cameras and restriction of entry of visitors should be well defined and enforced uniformly across the country in all sectors, it said. "Healthcare violence has its origin in high expectations, lack of infrastructure and inadequate human resources. Issues of medical profession involving doctor-patient relationship, effective communication regarding the nature of illness and professional counselling play a part as well. The IMA expects the government of India to provide for each of these components," according to the statement. The situation in West Bengal is still grave and fear of violence is present in all medical colleges and major hospitals, the IMA claimed. The violence following the attack on resident doctor Paribaha Mukherjee in West Bengal has been allowed to deteriorate into a major law and order situation, the medical body alleged. "The crisis should be resolved to the satisfaction of the residents and the medical professionals of West Bengal. IMA proclaims solidarity with the resident doctors of West Bengal and appeals to the government of West Bengal to address and resolve the issue on war footing," the statement said. Representatives from the IMA and Delhi Medical Association (DMA) had also called on Vardhan on Saturday. Stressing further on the need for avoiding such incidents in future, Vardhan had said law enforcement should prevail so that doctors and clinical establishments discharge their duties and professional pursuit without fear of any violence. "Strict action against any person who assaults them, must be ensured by the law enforcement agencies," he had emphasised. Vardhan cited a letter dated July 7, 2017 sent by the Union Health Ministry to all chief secretaries of states which contains the decision taken by an Inter-Ministerial Committee constituted by the ministry to review the issues raised by IMA. The committee, in its report, had recommended that the Health Ministry shall suggest to all state governments which do not have specific legislation to protect doctors and health professionals to consider one to strictly enforce the provisions of special legislation wherever they exist or enforce the IPC and CrPC provisions with vigour. The draft of The Protection of Medical Service Persons and Medical Service Institutions (Prevention of Violence and Damage or Loss of Property) Act, 2017, circulated to the states, includes clauses on penalty and recovery in case of loss/damage to property. Doctors at the Centre-run Lady Hardinge Medical College and Hospital, and RML Hospital, and Delhi government's healthcare facilities such as GTB Hospital, Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hospital, Sanjay Gandhi Memorial Hospital and DDU Hospital, boycotted work and held protests on Saturday. However, emergency and ICU services were not hampered in these hospitals. Resident doctors of AIIMS and Safdarjung Hospital, who resumed work after having boycotted it on Friday, Saturday have a 48-hour ultimatum to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to meet the demands of the state's agitating doctors, failing which they said they would go on an indefinite strike. They attended patients wearing helmets and bandages on forehead as a sign of protest.

Indian Medical Association begins nationwide strike in support of protesting West Bengal doctors

The joint forum of regional junior doctors, after their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/have-been-working-under-tremendous-pressure-doctors-tell-mamata-banerjee-in-meeting-227968">meeting with West Bengal Chief Minister</a> Mamata Banerjee on Monday, said that they were satisfied with meeting and measures proposed by the government, adding that they will go to the NRS Hospital and announce the withdrawal of their strike today.&nbsp;

"We are satisfied," the delegation said. The Chief Minister said that "once you withdraw the strike, I will visit Paribaha".

WION has learnt that the doctors' delegation will be heading to&nbsp;Nil Ratan Sarkar (NRS) Medical College and Hospital today, the epicentre of the medical mayhem, where <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hospitals-in-delhi-to-join-doctors-strike-call-today-227805">the strike</a> will officially be called off. Two junior doctors at the NRS hospital were allegedly attacked by the relative of a patient last Tuesday. The patient had died on June 10.

Junior doctors met West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday and apprised her of the problems they have been facing at medical colleges and hospitals in the state.

Banerjee was told that medical professionals have been working under tremendous fear. "We want exemplary punishment for those who assaulted NRS doctors," the joint forum of regional doctors told the chief minister today.

According to reports, Banerjee during the meeting accepted the proposal of doctors to set up a Grievance Redressal Cell in government hospitals, news agency ANI reported.

She directed Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma to deploy a nodal police officer in every hospital.

"We have taken adequate measures, arrested five people involved in NRS hospital incident," she added.&nbsp;

Only two regional news channels were allowed to cover the meeting between Banerjee and junior doctors that took place at the state secretariat.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday agreed for media coverage of her meeting with two representatives from each Medical College of the state.

The joint forum of regional junior doctors, after their meeting with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday, said that they were satisfied with meeting and measures proposed by the government, adding that they will go to the NRS Hospital and announce the withdrawal of their strike today.

The joint forum of regional junior doctors, after their meeting with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday, said that they were satisfied with meeting and measures proposed by the government, adding that they will go to the NRS Hospital and announce the withdrawal of their strike today. "We are satisfied," the delegation said. The Chief Minister said that "once you withdraw the strike, I will visit Paribaha". WION has learnt that the doctors' delegation will be heading to Nil Ratan Sarkar (NRS) Medical College and Hospital today, the epicentre of the medical mayhem, where the strike will officially be called off. Two junior doctors at the NRS hospital were allegedly attacked by the relative of a patient last Tuesday. The patient had died on June 10. Junior doctors met West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday and apprised her of the problems they have been facing at medical colleges and hospitals in the state. Banerjee was told that medical professionals have been working under tremendous fear. "We want exemplary punishment for those who assaulted NRS doctors," the joint forum of regional doctors told the chief minister today. According to reports, Banerjee during the meeting accepted the proposal of doctors to set up a Grievance Redressal Cell in government hospitals, news agency ANI reported. She directed Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma to deploy a nodal police officer in every hospital. "We have taken adequate measures, arrested five people involved in NRS hospital incident," she added. Only two regional news channels were allowed to cover the meeting between Banerjee and junior doctors that took place at the state secretariat. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday agreed for media coverage of her meeting with two representatives from each Medical College of the state.

After talks with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal doctors set to call off strike

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