<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/there-should-be-talks-with-the-taliban-army-chief-bipin-rawat-189220">There should be talks with the Taliban: Army chief Bipin Rawat</a>

Army chief General Bipin Rawat has said that "there should be talks with Taliban" but without any preconditions. Speaking at the fourth Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, he said talks with Taliban should happen "so long they don't come with a precondition and so long they look at lasting peace in Afghanistan and bring about stability in the country" and this is "in our interest, in region's interest, and it's in Pakistan's interest. We all want stability."

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-others-protest-as-government-moves-constitution-amendment-bill-in-rajya-sabha-189203">10% quota for poor: Congress, others protest as govt introduces </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-others-protest-as-government-moves-constitution-amendment-bill-in-rajya-sabha-189203">bill</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-others-protest-as-government-moves-constitution-amendment-bill-in-rajya-sabha-189203"> in Rajya Sabha</a>

The Congress and other opposition parties on Wednesday strongly protested in the Rajya Sabha and demanded the sending of the 'The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty- Four Amendment) Bill, 2019' to a select committee, after the government introduced the key legislation.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-has-changed-but-still-much-work-to-do-malala-yousafzai-189223">Pakistan has changed but there's still much work to do: Malala Yousafzai</a>

Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai says Pakistan has changed since she left the country nearly six years ago after being attacked by the Taliban and there is more peace but a lot of work is left to be done.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharat-bandh-2nd-day-violent-protests-rail-blockades-witnessed-in-many-states-189235">Day 2 of Bharat Bandh: Bank attacked in Kerala, stones pelted at school buses in WB</a>

Sporadic incidents of violence in West Bengal and Kerala and rail blockades in certain states were witnessed Wednesday on the second day of Bharat Bandh, which also saw a partial disruption of banking and insurance services across the country.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/how-hardik-pandya-got-carried-away-comments-that-led-to-storm-and-show-cause-189240">How Hardik Pandya got 'carried away'; the comments that led to a storm and show cause notice</a>

It was meant to be a fun, no-holds-barred interaction but cricketer Hardik Pandya, by his own admission, got "carried away".

Appearing on "Koffee with Karan", hosted by filmmaker Karan Johar, with teammate K L Rahul, Pandya's apparent loose talk on women and his sexuality took many by surprise.&nbsp;

Three days after the celebrity chat show aired on Sunday, the two cricketers on Wednesday were issued show cause notices by the BCCI, which took note of the massive outrage on social media and elsewhere. 
&nbsp;

There should be talks with the Taliban: Army chief Bipin Rawat Army chief General Bipin Rawat has said that "there should be talks with Taliban" but without any preconditions.

There should be talks with the Taliban: Army chief Bipin Rawat Army chief General Bipin Rawat has said that "there should be talks with Taliban" but without any preconditions. Speaking at the fourth Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, he said talks with Taliban should happen "so long they don't come with a precondition and so long they look at lasting peace in Afghanistan and bring about stability in the country" and this is "in our interest, in region's interest, and it's in Pakistan's interest. We all want stability." 10% quota for poor: Congress, others protest as govt introduces bill in Rajya Sabha The Congress and other opposition parties on Wednesday strongly protested in the Rajya Sabha and demanded the sending of the 'The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty- Four Amendment) Bill, 2019' to a select committee, after the government introduced the key legislation. Pakistan has changed but there's still much work to do: Malala Yousafzai Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai says Pakistan has changed since she left the country nearly six years ago after being attacked by the Taliban and there is more peace but a lot of work is left to be done. Day 2 of Bharat Bandh: Bank attacked in Kerala, stones pelted at school buses in WB Sporadic incidents of violence in West Bengal and Kerala and rail blockades in certain states were witnessed Wednesday on the second day of Bharat Bandh, which also saw a partial disruption of banking and insurance services across the country. How Hardik Pandya got 'carried away'; the comments that led to a storm and show cause notice It was meant to be a fun, no-holds-barred interaction but cricketer Hardik Pandya, by his own admission, got "carried away". Appearing on "Koffee with Karan", hosted by filmmaker Karan Johar, with teammate K L Rahul, Pandya's apparent loose talk on women and his sexuality took many by surprise. Three days after the celebrity chat show aired on Sunday, the two cricketers on Wednesday were issued show cause notices by the BCCI, which took note of the massive outrage on social media and elsewhere.

News brief: Big stories of the day

In pictures: Schools shut, banks closed for Bharat Bandh; everyday life affected

Several protesters were arrested as sporadic incidents of vandalism were reported from parts of West Bengal on Tuesday during the two-day nationwide strike called by central trade unions protesting against the "anti-people" policies of the Centre.

Stones were pelted at a school bus in Champadali area of Barasat in North 24 Parganas district. The students were later deboarded from the bus, police said.

Strike supporters burnt effigies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and burnt tyres in various parts of the state including Kolkata.

In Howrah, Siliguri, Bardhaman, Birbhum, North and South 24 Paraganas, clashes broke out between Trinamool Congress workers and strike supporters as TMC activists tried to stop them from forcibly imposing the strike.

Despite the incidents of violence, normal life in an around Kolkata and other parts of the state remained more or less unaffected by the strike call till 12 noon, except a few pockets.

Buses and other modes of transportation were seen on the roads although the number of passengers were much less than in other week days.

Tyres were burnt in Central Avenue of Kolkata to stop buses from plying in the roads. The protesters had a scuffle with the police when they tried to stop them from squatting on the roads.

A government bus was damaged by strike supporters at Champadali. Protesters also vandalised a bus at Jamuria in Paschim Bardhaman district.

Scuffles were witnessed between police and strike supporters in some areas of the state.

At Jadavpur area in south Kolkata, senior CPI(M) leader Sujan Chakraborty along with several other strike supporters were detained by the police.

Protesters squatted on tracks in some places to stop trains and burnt tyres on the roads.

 
In Kerala

Trains were stopped, buses and auto-rickshaws kept off roads as the 48-hour general strike called by 10 central trade unions against "anti-labour policies" of the central government, hit normal life in the southern state Tuesday.

Workers from various sectors have extended support to the two-day strike.

Trains were stopped in Thiruvananthapuram, Tripunithura, Shoranur railway stations.

Venad Express, which runs from the state capital to Shoranur Junction daily, was delayed by more than one hour as agitators squatted on tracks, blocking its route, and raised slogans. Other trains that were stopped here were Jan Shatabdi and Raptisagar Express.

All trade unions except the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh have supported the strike, which has come five days after a 'hartal' was observed by right-wing groups in protest against the entry of two young women into the Sabarimala temple in Kerala.

The Sabarimala pilgrims, tourists, social and religious functions have been exempted from the strike Tuesday.

To ensure Sabarimala pilgrims were not affected by the strike, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation has been operating buses from various destinations to Pamba, the foothills of the Sabarimala temple. However, KSRTC buses were not plying on other routes.

Meanwhile, pilgrims at Nilackal said they have been waiting for hours to reach the hill shrine.&nbsp;Private-run buses are also keeping off the roads.

Several protesters were arrested as sporadic incidents of vandalism were reported from parts of West Bengal on Tuesday during the two-day nationwide strike called by central trade unions protesting against the "anti-people" policies of the Centre.

Several protesters were arrested as sporadic incidents of vandalism were reported from parts of West Bengal on Tuesday during the two-day nationwide strike called by central trade unions protesting against the "anti-people" policies of the Centre. Stones were pelted at a school bus in Champadali area of Barasat in North 24 Parganas district. The students were later deboarded from the bus, police said. Strike supporters burnt effigies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and burnt tyres in various parts of the state including Kolkata. In Howrah, Siliguri, Bardhaman, Birbhum, North and South 24 Paraganas, clashes broke out between Trinamool Congress workers and strike supporters as TMC activists tried to stop them from forcibly imposing the strike. Despite the incidents of violence, normal life in an around Kolkata and other parts of the state remained more or less unaffected by the strike call till 12 noon, except a few pockets. Buses and other modes of transportation were seen on the roads although the number of passengers were much less than in other week days. Tyres were burnt in Central Avenue of Kolkata to stop buses from plying in the roads. The protesters had a scuffle with the police when they tried to stop them from squatting on the roads. A government bus was damaged by strike supporters at Champadali. Protesters also vandalised a bus at Jamuria in Paschim Bardhaman district. Scuffles were witnessed between police and strike supporters in some areas of the state. At Jadavpur area in south Kolkata, senior CPI(M) leader Sujan Chakraborty along with several other strike supporters were detained by the police. Protesters squatted on tracks in some places to stop trains and burnt tyres on the roads. In Kerala Trains were stopped, buses and auto-rickshaws kept off roads as the 48-hour general strike called by 10 central trade unions against "anti-labour policies" of the central government, hit normal life in the southern state Tuesday. Workers from various sectors have extended support to the two-day strike. Trains were stopped in Thiruvananthapuram, Tripunithura, Shoranur railway stations. Venad Express, which runs from the state capital to Shoranur Junction daily, was delayed by more than one hour as agitators squatted on tracks, blocking its route, and raised slogans. Other trains that were stopped here were Jan Shatabdi and Raptisagar Express. All trade unions except the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh have supported the strike, which has come five days after a 'hartal' was observed by right-wing groups in protest against the entry of two young women into the Sabarimala temple in Kerala. The Sabarimala pilgrims, tourists, social and religious functions have been exempted from the strike Tuesday. To ensure Sabarimala pilgrims were not affected by the strike, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation has been operating buses from various destinations to Pamba, the foothills of the Sabarimala temple. However, KSRTC buses were not plying on other routes. Meanwhile, pilgrims at Nilackal said they have been waiting for hours to reach the hill shrine. Private-run buses are also keeping off the roads.

Bharat Bandh: School bus attacked in West Bengal, buses & autos stay off roads in Kerala

The Supreme Court Tuesday sought a response from the West Bengal government on a plea by the BJP seeking permission to take out <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rath-yatra-in-west-bengal-supreme-court-agrees-to-hear-bjps-plea-on-january-7-187986">Rath Yatra in the state.</a>

The West Bengal unit of the BJP has challenged the December 21 order of the division bench of the Calcutta High Court, which had set aside the order of a single-judge bench allowing the procession.

An apex court bench headed by Justice S K Kaul also asked the BJP state unit to submit a revised plan for its "Save Democracy Rally" for consideration by the state government.

The bench posted the matter for hearing on January 15.

The BJP's West Bengal unit has approached the apex court seeking permission to take out the rally, which would cover 42 parliamentary constituencies in the state ahead of general elections to be held this year.&nbsp;

In its plea, the BJP has said that their fundamental right to hold a peaceful yatra cannot be withheld.

The party had planned to launch the yatra from three districts of the state.

The high court's division bench had sent the case back to a single-judge bench to hear it afresh and also to consider the intelligence inputs by state agencies.

The order of the division bench had come after hearing an appeal moved by the West Bengal government challenging the order of the single-judge bench.

The rallies, according to the original schedule, were supposed to be flagged off by BJP president Amit Shah from Bengal's Cooch Behar district on December 7, Kakdwip in South 24 Parganas on December 9, and from Tarapith temple in Birbhum on December 14.

In the plea filed in the top court, the BJP's West Bengal unit has contended that authorities cannot abridge their right and they have a duty to facilitate them in exercising their democratic right.

The BJP has alleged in the plea that the state government was repeatedly "attacking" the fundamental right of citizens due to which different petitions have been filed challenging the activities of the state government in denying permission to different organisations.

It has claimed that earlier too, permission was denied several times at the last moment to "harass the BJP" which later moved the high court and that the party "is facing such political vendetta since 2014 in West Bengal".

An apex court bench headed by Justice S K Kaul also asked the BJP state unit to submit a revised plan for its 'Save Democracy Rally' for consideration by the state government.

The Supreme Court Tuesday sought a response from the West Bengal government on a plea by the BJP seeking permission to take out Rath Yatra in the state. The West Bengal unit of the BJP has challenged the December 21 order of the division bench of the Calcutta High Court, which had set aside the order of a single-judge bench allowing the procession. An apex court bench headed by Justice S K Kaul also asked the BJP state unit to submit a revised plan for its "Save Democracy Rally" for consideration by the state government. The bench posted the matter for hearing on January 15. The BJP's West Bengal unit has approached the apex court seeking permission to take out the rally, which would cover 42 parliamentary constituencies in the state ahead of general elections to be held this year. In its plea, the BJP has said that their fundamental right to hold a peaceful yatra cannot be withheld. The party had planned to launch the yatra from three districts of the state. The high court's division bench had sent the case back to a single-judge bench to hear it afresh and also to consider the intelligence inputs by state agencies. The order of the division bench had come after hearing an appeal moved by the West Bengal government challenging the order of the single-judge bench. The rallies, according to the original schedule, were supposed to be flagged off by BJP president Amit Shah from Bengal's Cooch Behar district on December 7, Kakdwip in South 24 Parganas on December 9, and from Tarapith temple in Birbhum on December 14. In the plea filed in the top court, the BJP's West Bengal unit has contended that authorities cannot abridge their right and they have a duty to facilitate them in exercising their democratic right. The BJP has alleged in the plea that the state government was repeatedly "attacking" the fundamental right of citizens due to which different petitions have been filed challenging the activities of the state government in denying permission to different organisations. It has claimed that earlier too, permission was denied several times at the last moment to "harass the BJP" which later moved the high court and that the party "is facing such political vendetta since 2014 in West Bengal".

SC seeks West Bengal government's response on BJP plea seeking permission for Rath Yatra

West Bengal BJP chief Dilip Ghosh ruffled a few feathers within his party on Saturday when he said TMC supremo and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has the best chance to become the first Bengali prime minister of the country.

Extending birthday wishes to her, Ghosh said he prayed for her good health and success in life "because the fate of our state depends on her success".&nbsp;

"We want her to be fit so that she can work well. She needs to remain fit because if there is any Bengali who has the chance to be the PM from this Bengal, then she is the one," he said.

Asked if anyone from his own party's Bengal unit had the chance to be the PM, Ghosh said that Mamata Banerjee was ahead in the race among Bengalis who can become Prime Minister.

"We can surely have one from Bengal after her. But she has the first chance. We couldn't have Jyoti Basu as the first Bengali prime minister as his party did not allow him to be," Ghosh said.

"We had Pranab Mukherjee from the state as the first Bengali to become President so now it's time to have a Bengali as PM," he added.&nbsp;

The statement came as a shocker for the state BJP as it is engaged in a bitter fight against the TMC in the state.

West Bengal BJP chief Dilip Ghosh ruffled a few feathers within his party on Saturday when he said TMC supremo and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has the best chance to become the first Bengali prime minister of the country.

West Bengal BJP chief Dilip Ghosh ruffled a few feathers within his party on Saturday when he said TMC supremo and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has the best chance to become the first Bengali prime minister of the country. Extending birthday wishes to her, Ghosh said he prayed for her good health and success in life "because the fate of our state depends on her success". "We want her to be fit so that she can work well. She needs to remain fit because if there is any Bengali who has the chance to be the PM from this Bengal, then she is the one," he said. Asked if anyone from his own party's Bengal unit had the chance to be the PM, Ghosh said that Mamata Banerjee was ahead in the race among Bengalis who can become Prime Minister. "We can surely have one from Bengal after her. But she has the first chance. We couldn't have Jyoti Basu as the first Bengali prime minister as his party did not allow him to be," Ghosh said. "We had Pranab Mukherjee from the state as the first Bengali to become President so now it's time to have a Bengali as PM," he added. The statement came as a shocker for the state BJP as it is engaged in a bitter fight against the TMC in the state.

If any Bengali has chance to become PM, it's Mamata: West Bengal BJP chief

The Supreme Court on Thursday agreed to hear a plea filed by&nbsp;Bengal BJP against a Calcutta High Court order not allowing its Rath Yatra in the state.&nbsp;

The matter was mentioned for urgent hearing before a bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and SK Kaul which agreed to hear it on January 7.&nbsp;

The party had approached the apex court seeking permission to hold the campaign 'Save Democracy Rally', which would cover 42 parliamentary constituencies in the state ahead of the 2019 general elections.&nbsp;

It had challenged the December 21 order of a division bench of the high court which had set aside the order of a single judge allowing the yatra.&nbsp;

BJP has identified Bengal as a priority state and party chief Amit Shah has set a target of 22 seats from here in the upcoming elections.

Over the last few years, the party has emerged as the main opposition in the state with a significant show in rural polls and by-elections.&nbsp;

The PM's first rally is expected to be held at the Brigade Parade ground in the heart of city. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will also hold a rally at the same venue on January 19 and has invited leaders of all opposition parties in the country.

The matter was mentioned for urgent hearing before a bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and SK Kaul which agreed to hear it on January 7.

The Supreme Court on Thursday agreed to hear a plea filed by Bengal BJP against a Calcutta High Court order not allowing its Rath Yatra in the state. The matter was mentioned for urgent hearing before a bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and SK Kaul which agreed to hear it on January 7. The party had approached the apex court seeking permission to hold the campaign 'Save Democracy Rally', which would cover 42 parliamentary constituencies in the state ahead of the 2019 general elections. It had challenged the December 21 order of a division bench of the high court which had set aside the order of a single judge allowing the yatra. BJP has identified Bengal as a priority state and party chief Amit Shah has set a target of 22 seats from here in the upcoming elections. Over the last few years, the party has emerged as the main opposition in the state with a significant show in rural polls and by-elections. The PM's first rally is expected to be held at the Brigade Parade ground in the heart of city. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will also hold a rally at the same venue on January 19 and has invited leaders of all opposition parties in the country.

Rath Yatra in West Bengal: Supreme Court agrees to hear BJP's plea on January 7

A 1000-pound aerial bomb dating back to the World War-II era has been unearthed at a dock here during routine dredging operations.

The area was cordoned off following the discovery of the bomb Friday and the police, Navy and the Army duly informed, Kolkata Port Trust Chairman Vinit Kumar said.

"The 4.5-km-long aerial bomb was located around 2 pm yesterday during dredging operations at Netaji Subhas Dock berth II. Initially, we thought it was a torpedo, but the Navy has confirmed that it is a bomb," he told PTI.

The explosive is likely to be defused with the help of officials from the Ordnance Factory, he added.

Commodore Suprobho K De, naval officer-in-charge, West Bengal, said the bomb does not pose any risk as it has several security locks affixed to it.

"It is a 450-kg aerial bomb fitted with brackets to attach with fighter planes. There seems to be no threat from the bomb as it has locks affixed to it. Also, aerial bombs have to be dropped from a certain height to make an impact," he explained.

De said there is not much that the Navy can do about the device.

"I hope the KoPT will seek help from the Ordinance Factory, which has expertise in making ammunition. If needed, we may contact Vizag naval base for assistance," De said.

Netaji Subhas Dock, on the east bank of Hooghly river, was extensively used by the US Navy during World War II for its operations.&nbsp;

A 1000-pound aerial bomb dating back to the World War-II era has been unearthed at a dock here during routine dredging operations. The area was cordoned off following the discovery of the bomb Friday and the police, Navy and the Army duly informed, Kolkata Port Trust Chairman Vinit Kumar said.

A 1000-pound aerial bomb dating back to the World War-II era has been unearthed at a dock here during routine dredging operations. The area was cordoned off following the discovery of the bomb Friday and the police, Navy and the Army duly informed, Kolkata Port Trust Chairman Vinit Kumar said. "The 4.5-km-long aerial bomb was located around 2 pm yesterday during dredging operations at Netaji Subhas Dock berth II. Initially, we thought it was a torpedo, but the Navy has confirmed that it is a bomb," he told PTI. The explosive is likely to be defused with the help of officials from the Ordnance Factory, he added. Commodore Suprobho K De, naval officer-in-charge, West Bengal, said the bomb does not pose any risk as it has several security locks affixed to it. "It is a 450-kg aerial bomb fitted with brackets to attach with fighter planes. There seems to be no threat from the bomb as it has locks affixed to it. Also, aerial bombs have to be dropped from a certain height to make an impact," he explained. De said there is not much that the Navy can do about the device. "I hope the KoPT will seek help from the Ordinance Factory, which has expertise in making ammunition. If needed, we may contact Vizag naval base for assistance," De said. Netaji Subhas Dock, on the east bank of Hooghly river, was extensively used by the US Navy during World War II for its operations.

World War-II bomb found during dredging operations in Kolkata

BJP's ‘save democracy’ Rath Yatra (chariot journey), that was scheduled to commence from three different points this Saturday and conclude with party President Amit Shah's public rally after crossing through all the Lok Sabha constituencies of West Bengal, has been grounded even before it could take-off as the Supreme Court this Monday refused to accord a priority hearing on BJP's application challenging a Calcutta High Court order preventing the Yatra in West Bengal.

The Mamata Banerjee government has stiffly opposed BJP's yatra. It used what it calls “intelligence feedback” to drive home the communal angle and raise the law and order issue through a petition filed in the Calcutta high court to stall the Yatra.

At the outset, a single judge bench of the Calcutta high court allowed the Yatra. But a Division Bench of the high court struck down this order after the Mamata government had challenged it.

Since winter holidays were starting, the BJP approached the Supreme Court to seek an urgent hearing in this matter but as the request has been denied by the apex court, the matter will now come up for hearing in the normal course when the court reopens in January 2019. Till then the Yatra would remain on the back-burner and in the interim people will be witnessing a battle of wits and a war of words between the BJP and All India Trinamool Congress, the ruling party in West Bengal.

After the BJP took up the Ayodhya temple issue, senior party leader L K Advani had embarked on his famous padyatra in September 1990. Advani’s Somnath to Ayodhya Rath Yatra is now history. In 2011, Advani took out another yatra - Jan Chetna Yatra to take on UPA government on the corruption issue.

Except for the nomenclature, there is no ground to compare Advani’s Yatra with BJP’s now postponed “Save Democracy Rath Yatra” in Bengal which is directed against the Mamata Banerjee government and more particularly aimed at building public opinion against illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. BJP views it as a serious issue and the main reason leading to distress among the state's youth. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has already launched a campaign in support of a National Register of Citizens on the same lines as Assam to weed out the illegal Bangladeshis from Bengal.&nbsp;

The social media has been loaded with comments both for and against BJP’s save democracy Rath Yatra. A Twitter post in defence of the BJP said: If this (stopping the BJP from taking out its Rat Yatra) is not akin to Emergency what else is? &nbsp;Can law and order be an alibi to prevent freedom of Expression?

The present impasse and its outcome will have a far-reaching impact on BJP’s campaign for the 2019 Lok Sabha election not only in Bengal but also in other parts of the country. The stakes are too high for the BJP which has already suffered defeat in the just concluded Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh - the Hindi heartland states.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

BJP's ‘save democracy’ Rath Yatra (chariot journey), that was scheduled to commence from three different points this Saturday and conclude with party President Amit Shah's public rally after crossing through all the Lok Sabha constituencies of West Bengal, has been grounded even before it could take-off as the Supreme Court this Monday refused to accord a priority hearing on BJP's application challenging a Calcutta High Court order preventing the Yatra in West Bengal.

BJP's ‘save democracy’ Rath Yatra (chariot journey), that was scheduled to commence from three different points this Saturday and conclude with party President Amit Shah's public rally after crossing through all the Lok Sabha constituencies of West Bengal, has been grounded even before it could take-off as the Supreme Court this Monday refused to accord a priority hearing on BJP's application challenging a Calcutta High Court order preventing the Yatra in West Bengal. The Mamata Banerjee government has stiffly opposed BJP's yatra. It used what it calls “intelligence feedback” to drive home the communal angle and raise the law and order issue through a petition filed in the Calcutta high court to stall the Yatra. At the outset, a single judge bench of the Calcutta high court allowed the Yatra. But a Division Bench of the high court struck down this order after the Mamata government had challenged it. Since winter holidays were starting, the BJP approached the Supreme Court to seek an urgent hearing in this matter but as the request has been denied by the apex court, the matter will now come up for hearing in the normal course when the court reopens in January 2019. Till then the Yatra would remain on the back-burner and in the interim people will be witnessing a battle of wits and a war of words between the BJP and All India Trinamool Congress, the ruling party in West Bengal. After the BJP took up the Ayodhya temple issue, senior party leader L K Advani had embarked on his famous padyatra in September 1990. Advani’s Somnath to Ayodhya Rath Yatra is now history. In 2011, Advani took out another yatra - Jan Chetna Yatra to take on UPA government on the corruption issue. Except for the nomenclature, there is no ground to compare Advani’s Yatra with BJP’s now postponed “Save Democracy Rath Yatra” in Bengal which is directed against the Mamata Banerjee government and more particularly aimed at building public opinion against illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. BJP views it as a serious issue and the main reason leading to distress among the state's youth. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has already launched a campaign in support of a National Register of Citizens on the same lines as Assam to weed out the illegal Bangladeshis from Bengal. The social media has been loaded with comments both for and against BJP’s save democracy Rath Yatra. A Twitter post in defence of the BJP said: If this (stopping the BJP from taking out its Rat Yatra) is not akin to Emergency what else is? Can law and order be an alibi to prevent freedom of Expression? The present impasse and its outcome will have a far-reaching impact on BJP’s campaign for the 2019 Lok Sabha election not only in Bengal but also in other parts of the country. The stakes are too high for the BJP which has already suffered defeat in the just concluded Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh - the Hindi heartland states. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The Rath Yatra controversy and BJP’s stakes in West Bengal

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Wednesday remembered the victims of the 2004 Tsunami, that had devastated coasts of several south and southeast Asian countries on this day.

Banerjee also had a word of praise for those who had shown courage in face of the disaster by volunteering to help the affected.

"On the 14th anniversary of the #Tsunami2004, my solemn tribute to those who lost their lives due to the disaster. Salute to those who volunteered to help the affected across the regions," Banerjee tweeted on Wednesday morning.

On December 26, 2004, an undersea earthquake with a magnitude of 9.1, had struck with an epicentre off the west coast of northern Sumatra.

The tsunami had witnessed the killing of over lakhs of people across Sri Lanka, India, Maldives and Thailand besides inflicting massive damage.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Wednesday remembered the victims of the 2004 Tsunami, that had devastated coasts of several south and southeast Asian countries on this day.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Wednesday remembered the victims of the 2004 Tsunami, that had devastated coasts of several south and southeast Asian countries on this day. Banerjee also had a word of praise for those who had shown courage in face of the disaster by volunteering to help the affected. "On the 14th anniversary of the #Tsunami2004, my solemn tribute to those who lost their lives due to the disaster. Salute to those who volunteered to help the affected across the regions," Banerjee tweeted on Wednesday morning. On December 26, 2004, an undersea earthquake with a magnitude of 9.1, had struck with an epicentre off the west coast of northern Sumatra. The tsunami had witnessed the killing of over lakhs of people across Sri Lanka, India, Maldives and Thailand besides inflicting massive damage.

On 14th anniversary of 2004 tsunami, Mamata Banerjee remembers victims

The West Bengal BJP has filed an appeal in the Supreme Court against the Calcutta High Court order refusing permission to its three planned rath yatras in the state.&nbsp;

A single judge bench of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-major-setback-for-mamata-govt-calcutta-hc-allows-bjp-to-hold-its-3-rath-yatras-in-bengal-185498">the court had on Thursday allowed the BJP to hold the yatras</a> but, after the West Bengal government appealed, a division bench of the court sent the order back to the single judge bench.&nbsp;

The single judge bench, while passing its order, had said the government had not even made an effort to allow the BJP to hold its yatras, and that it was therefore allowed to intervene.&nbsp;

In its appeal, the West Bengal government said the state's intelligence agencies have warned that the yatras may lead to communal strife.&nbsp;

The division judge bench said it was important to take the warning by the intelligence agencies into consideration.&nbsp;

The division bench then asked the single-judge bench of Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty to hear the case again, take the inputs from the intelligence agencies into consideration, and dispose of the matter expeditiously.

The BJP's three yatras had originally been meant to kick off from Cooch Behar district on December 7, Kakdwip in South 24 Parganas on December 9, and Tarapith temple in Birbhum on December 14.&nbsp;

On Thursday, after Justice Chakraborty's order, the BJP said they would kick off on December 22, 24 and 26.&nbsp;

All three rath yatras were to be kicked off by BJP president Amit Shah and were meant to criss-cross the state before the general elections next year.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The West Bengal BJP has filed an appeal in the Supreme Court against the Calcutta High Court order refusing permission to its three planned rath yatras in the state.

The West Bengal BJP has filed an appeal in the Supreme Court against the Calcutta High Court order refusing permission to its three planned rath yatras in the state. A single judge bench of the court had on Thursday allowed the BJP to hold the yatras but, after the West Bengal government appealed, a division bench of the court sent the order back to the single judge bench. The single judge bench, while passing its order, had said the government had not even made an effort to allow the BJP to hold its yatras, and that it was therefore allowed to intervene. In its appeal, the West Bengal government said the state's intelligence agencies have warned that the yatras may lead to communal strife. The division judge bench said it was important to take the warning by the intelligence agencies into consideration. The division bench then asked the single-judge bench of Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty to hear the case again, take the inputs from the intelligence agencies into consideration, and dispose of the matter expeditiously. The BJP's three yatras had originally been meant to kick off from Cooch Behar district on December 7, Kakdwip in South 24 Parganas on December 9, and Tarapith temple in Birbhum on December 14. On Thursday, after Justice Chakraborty's order, the BJP said they would kick off on December 22, 24 and 26. All three rath yatras were to be kicked off by BJP president Amit Shah and were meant to criss-cross the state before the general elections next year.

Bengal BJP appeals to Supreme Court against HC order disallowing its 3 rath yatras

The Bhartiya Janata Party will move vacation bench in the Supreme court challenging the order of the division bench of the Calcutta High Court that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/calcutta-high-court-quashes-single-bench-order-that-allowed-bjps-rath-yatra-in-west-bengal-185687">quashed the BJP's 'Rath Yatra'</a> in West Bengal on Friday.

The division bench of the Calcutta High Court yesterday quashed the approval granted to the BJP for carrying out a Rath Yatra in the state.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/high-court-allows-bjp-rath-yatra-in-west-bengal-185502">Rath yatra&nbsp;was earlier allowed by a single bench order</a> of the Calcutta High Court.

The court on Thursday set aside Bengal government's denial of permission to the BJP to hold three 'rath yatra'&nbsp;in the state.

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BJP to move vacation bench of the Supreme Court challenging the order of the division bench of Calcutta High Court on BJP's Yatra in West Bengal. <a href="https://t.co/CktrTxraJn">pic.twitter.com/CktrTxraJn</a>
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BJP plans to run a "Save Democracy Rally" in the state ahead of the upcoming 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

The Bhartiya Janata Party will move vacation bench in the Supreme court challenging the order of the division bench of the Calcutta High Court that quashed the BJP's 'Rath Yatra' in West Bengal on Friday.

The Bhartiya Janata Party will move vacation bench in the Supreme court challenging the order of the division bench of the Calcutta High Court that quashed the BJP's 'Rath Yatra' in West Bengal on Friday. The division bench of the Calcutta High Court yesterday quashed the approval granted to the BJP for carrying out a Rath Yatra in the state. The Rath yatra was earlier allowed by a single bench order of the Calcutta High Court. The court on Thursday set aside Bengal government's denial of permission to the BJP to hold three 'rath yatra' in the state. BJP to move vacation bench of the Supreme Court challenging the order of the division bench of Calcutta High Court on BJP's Yatra in West Bengal. pic.twitter.com/CktrTxraJn — ANI (@ANI) December 22, 2018 × BJP plans to run a "Save Democracy Rally" in the state ahead of the upcoming 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

BJP to move SC bench challenging High Court's quashing of 'Rath Yatra' in West Bengal 

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Saturday asked the party unit in West Bengal to strengthen its organisation and prepare to fight "on its own" in the coming Lok Sabha polls.

He gave the mantra to the party unit at a meeting with PCC chief Somen Mitra and in-charge of Bengal, Gaurav Gogoi in New Delhi after discussing various organisational aspects pertaining the state unit.

"We have been asked to strengthen our party organisation in the state and prepare ourselves to fight on our strength in Bengal in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls," Mitra said in a statement after the meeting with the party chief.

West Bengal has a total of 42 Lok Sabha seats out of which Congress has four.

According to the West Bengal Congress president, Gandhi asked the party to start mass movements across the state against both BJP and TMC in order to protect the secular fabric of the state.

According to the state party sources, Mitra informed Gandhi about the "misrule" of the TMC and the "threat" of the BJP in the state.

The state Congress unit has also decided to hold a massive rally here in February next year.

"He (Rahul Gandhi) has also been informed about how the TMC is trying to undermine the achievement of Congress and Rahul Gandhi in the victory of the three Hindi heartland states," said a senior Congress leader.

The West Bengal Congress is of the opinion that the party's national president Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi should refrain from attending the proposed opposition rally to be held here by the TMC in January.

The ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal has called a rally of opposition parties on January 19 at the Brigade Parade grounds in Kolkata. All opposition parties, including the Congress, have been invited to it.

The Congress' state unit is upbeat after the party's win in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan in the recent assembly polls.

The state Congress leadership has been vocal against the TMC also for not giving credit to Rahul Gandhi for the grand old party's victory in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh.

It had also ridiculed the TMC, saying its leaders were having "sleepless nights" fearing that their dream of Mamata Banerjee becoming the prime minister might not be fulfilled.&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Saturday asked the party unit in West Bengal to strengthen its organisation and prepare to fight "on its own" in the coming Lok Sabha polls.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Saturday asked the party unit in West Bengal to strengthen its organisation and prepare to fight "on its own" in the coming Lok Sabha polls. He gave the mantra to the party unit at a meeting with PCC chief Somen Mitra and in-charge of Bengal, Gaurav Gogoi in New Delhi after discussing various organisational aspects pertaining the state unit. "We have been asked to strengthen our party organisation in the state and prepare ourselves to fight on our strength in Bengal in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls," Mitra said in a statement after the meeting with the party chief. West Bengal has a total of 42 Lok Sabha seats out of which Congress has four. According to the West Bengal Congress president, Gandhi asked the party to start mass movements across the state against both BJP and TMC in order to protect the secular fabric of the state. According to the state party sources, Mitra informed Gandhi about the "misrule" of the TMC and the "threat" of the BJP in the state. The state Congress unit has also decided to hold a massive rally here in February next year. "He (Rahul Gandhi) has also been informed about how the TMC is trying to undermine the achievement of Congress and Rahul Gandhi in the victory of the three Hindi heartland states," said a senior Congress leader. The West Bengal Congress is of the opinion that the party's national president Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi should refrain from attending the proposed opposition rally to be held here by the TMC in January. The ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal has called a rally of opposition parties on January 19 at the Brigade Parade grounds in Kolkata. All opposition parties, including the Congress, have been invited to it. The Congress' state unit is upbeat after the party's win in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan in the recent assembly polls. The state Congress leadership has been vocal against the TMC also for not giving credit to Rahul Gandhi for the grand old party's victory in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. It had also ridiculed the TMC, saying its leaders were having "sleepless nights" fearing that their dream of Mamata Banerjee becoming the prime minister might not be fulfilled.

Congress should prepare to fight on its own strength in Bengal: Rahul Gandhi

In a major setback for the West Bengal government, the Calcutta High Court has set aside the Bengal government’s denial of permission to the BJP to hold three rath yatras in the state.&nbsp;

The court however has imposed several restrictions on the BJP while allowing them to hold the yatras.&nbsp;

“Petitioner has to inform the authorities atleast twelves hours before entering the area, should not hinder transport movement and maintain peace. In case of wrongful loss or damage to property the petitioner will be liable,” single bench judge Tapabrata Chakraborty said.&nbsp;

Chakraborty further instructed the police to ensure the adequate deployment of forces so that there is no breach of law and order.&nbsp;

The yatras are expected to criss-cross the state before the general elections next years.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the Calcutta High Court court came down heavily on the state government for not even making an effort to allow the BJP to hold the yatras

“The administrative authorities totally denied permission without even making an endeavour that the rally can be allowed by imposing reasonable restrictions. This court can easily interfere with such decisions in exercise of its powers, when decisions are whimsical and illogical,” the court said, referring to the order issued by the state government on December 15 this year.&nbsp;

The BJP's state unit meanwhile welcomed the court’s decision.&nbsp;

“This is a moral victory of the BJP. We had full faith in the judiciary and today the court ruled in favour of us. The state government is trying to bulldoze the democratic rights of all opposition parties in the state,” said BJP leader Joyprakash Majumdar.&nbsp;

Majumdar said that the yatras are likely to be held on December 22, 24 and 26 this year.&nbsp;

“As per the earlier schedule, all three rath yatras will be held. The three locations are Coochbehar, Tarapith and Gangasagar. However we may consider changing dates of the rath yatra(s) as the court has not specified any dates for us,” Majumdar said.&nbsp;

In a major setback for the West Bengal government, the Calcutta High Court has set aside the Bengal government’s denial of permission to the BJP to hold three rath yatras in the state.

In a major setback for the West Bengal government, the Calcutta High Court has set aside the Bengal government’s denial of permission to the BJP to hold three rath yatras in the state. The court however has imposed several restrictions on the BJP while allowing them to hold the yatras. “Petitioner has to inform the authorities atleast twelves hours before entering the area, should not hinder transport movement and maintain peace. In case of wrongful loss or damage to property the petitioner will be liable,” single bench judge Tapabrata Chakraborty said. Chakraborty further instructed the police to ensure the adequate deployment of forces so that there is no breach of law and order. The yatras are expected to criss-cross the state before the general elections next years. On Thursday, the Calcutta High Court court came down heavily on the state government for not even making an effort to allow the BJP to hold the yatras “The administrative authorities totally denied permission without even making an endeavour that the rally can be allowed by imposing reasonable restrictions. This court can easily interfere with such decisions in exercise of its powers, when decisions are whimsical and illogical,” the court said, referring to the order issued by the state government on December 15 this year. The BJP's state unit meanwhile welcomed the court’s decision. “This is a moral victory of the BJP. We had full faith in the judiciary and today the court ruled in favour of us. The state government is trying to bulldoze the democratic rights of all opposition parties in the state,” said BJP leader Joyprakash Majumdar. Majumdar said that the yatras are likely to be held on December 22, 24 and 26 this year. “As per the earlier schedule, all three rath yatras will be held. The three locations are Coochbehar, Tarapith and Gangasagar. However we may consider changing dates of the rath yatra(s) as the court has not specified any dates for us,” Majumdar said.

In major setback for Mamata govt, Calcutta HC allows BJP to hold its 3 rath yatras in Bengal

High Court allows BJP Rath Yatra in West Bengal

Over 1.7 crore minority community students have been awarded a scholarship in West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said Tuesday.

"You will be happy to know that in #Bangla, we have distributed scholarships to over 1.7 crore minority students, the highest in the country. 
My best wishes to all,” the chief minister tweeted on the occasion of Minorities Rights Day.&nbsp;

Stressing on equality and the necessity of staying united, the chief minister tweeted, "Today is #MinorityRightsDay. We are all equal and united. 
Unity in diversity is our strength.”&nbsp;

Minorities Rights Day is celebrated on this day every year to protect the rights of the minority communities and forge a better understanding among religious minorities in the country.

Over 1.7 crore minority community students have been awarded a scholarship in West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said Tuesday. "You will be happy to know that in #Bangla, we have distributed scholarships to over 1.

Over 1.7 crore minority community students have been awarded a scholarship in West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said Tuesday. "You will be happy to know that in #Bangla, we have distributed scholarships to over 1.7 crore minority students, the highest in the country. My best wishes to all,” the chief minister tweeted on the occasion of Minorities Rights Day. Stressing on equality and the necessity of staying united, the chief minister tweeted, "Today is #MinorityRightsDay. We are all equal and united. Unity in diversity is our strength.” Minorities Rights Day is celebrated on this day every year to protect the rights of the minority communities and forge a better understanding among religious minorities in the country.

Scholarships awarded to 1.7 crore minority students in West Bengal: CM Mamata Banerjee

West Bengal Chief Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/scholarships-awarded-to-17-crore-minority-students-in-west-bengal-cm-mamata-banerjee-184968">Mamata Banerjee</a> Tuesday said that it was a humanitarian obligation to give refuge to migrants.

On International Migrants Day, she stated that her government to the best of its abilities would take care of anyone seeking shelter in West Bengal.

"Today is International Migrants Day. It is our humanitarian obligation to give refuge to migrants. In #Bangla we will take care of anyone who seeks shelter in our state, to the best of our abilities," Banerjee tweeted.

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Banerjee, the Trinamool Congress supremo had been critical of the BJP-led Central government after over 40 lakh people were left out of the complete draft of Assams National Register of Citizens (NRC).

She had also expressed her willingness that people whose names were not included in the list can come and stay in West Bengal.

International Migrants Day is observed on December 18 in accordance with Resolution 55/93 of the United Nations General Assembly, adopted on December 4, 2000.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Tuesday said that it was a humanitarian obligation to give refuge to migrants. On International Migrants Day, she stated that her government to the best of its abilities would take care of anyone seeking shelter in West Bengal.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Tuesday said that it was a humanitarian obligation to give refuge to migrants. On International Migrants Day, she stated that her government to the best of its abilities would take care of anyone seeking shelter in West Bengal. "Today is International Migrants Day. It is our humanitarian obligation to give refuge to migrants. In #Bangla we will take care of anyone who seeks shelter in our state, to the best of our abilities," Banerjee tweeted. Today is International Migrants Day. It is our humanitarian obligation to give refuge to migrants. In #Bangla we will take care of anyone who seeks shelter in our State, to the best of our abilities — Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) December 18, 2018 × Banerjee, the Trinamool Congress supremo had been critical of the BJP-led Central government after over 40 lakh people were left out of the complete draft of Assams National Register of Citizens (NRC). She had also expressed her willingness that people whose names were not included in the list can come and stay in West Bengal. International Migrants Day is observed on December 18 in accordance with Resolution 55/93 of the United Nations General Assembly, adopted on December 4, 2000.

West Bengal's doors open for migrant and homeless people: Mamata Banerjee

Hasimara Air Force Station in Bengal’s Alipurduar district is expected to be ready by the year 2020 to house the Rafale fighter jets.

While the first squadron will be based out of Ambala Air Force Station in Punjab, the second such squadron will be based out of the Hasimara Air Force Station in North Bengal.

Previously, it was planned that one squadron of the Rafale would be based out of the Sarsawa Air Force Station in Uttar Pradesh. However, issues relating to land acquisition eventually led to the selection of the Ambala Air Force Station to prepare itself for a two-front war in the northern side of Pakistan and China.

On the eastern frontier, Hasimara was selected as the base to house the second squadron. Hasimara earlier had a MiG-27 squadron which is being replaced by Rafales.&nbsp;

The Hasimara Air Force Station has no squadron presently.

A senior Air Force official revealed that the jets will start arriving from France in 2019 and a budget of Rs.400 crores has been allocated for these two Air Force Stations -- Ambala and Hasimara -- to build facilities, develop shelters, hangers and maintenance facilities at the two bases.

“As far as the hangar is concerned, we are building in such a way so that it can accommodate both the Rafales and Sukhoi MKIs as we cannot build hangers and keep changing it. When we build a facility, we have to do in a manner so that it serves the Indian Air Force for the next 40-50 years. Engineers and staff of the technical teams of Dassault Aviation from France are working at the Air Force Station on a war footing,” said a senior Air Force official.

This apart, work on building a new facility in the Air Force Station and resurfacing of the runway has begun.&nbsp;

“Sukhois and Rafales are jets that tend to pick up any particles on the runway. Hence, resurfacing is important for smooth landings and takeoffs. Work on resurfacing the runway has begun already. The runway will be ready in a year,” added the official. &nbsp;

The last time the 8,500-9,000 ft in length runway was resurfaced was way back in 1993. While there were plans extending the runway, it was dropped later.

Hasimara air base came up post the 1962 Sino-India War. This air base has housed several squadrons of the fighter jets like the - Gnats, Ajeets, Hunters, MiG-21Bis and the Mig-27 ML fighter jets.

Hasimara Air Force Station in Bengal’s Alipurduar district is expected to be ready by the year 2020 to house the Rafale fighter jets. While the first squadron will be based out of Ambala Air Force Station in Punjab, the second such squadron will be based out of the Hasimara Air Force Station in North Bengal.

Hasimara Air Force Station in Bengal’s Alipurduar district is expected to be ready by the year 2020 to house the Rafale fighter jets. While the first squadron will be based out of Ambala Air Force Station in Punjab, the second such squadron will be based out of the Hasimara Air Force Station in North Bengal. Previously, it was planned that one squadron of the Rafale would be based out of the Sarsawa Air Force Station in Uttar Pradesh. However, issues relating to land acquisition eventually led to the selection of the Ambala Air Force Station to prepare itself for a two-front war in the northern side of Pakistan and China. On the eastern frontier, Hasimara was selected as the base to house the second squadron. Hasimara earlier had a MiG-27 squadron which is being replaced by Rafales. The Hasimara Air Force Station has no squadron presently. A senior Air Force official revealed that the jets will start arriving from France in 2019 and a budget of Rs.400 crores has been allocated for these two Air Force Stations -- Ambala and Hasimara -- to build facilities, develop shelters, hangers and maintenance facilities at the two bases. “As far as the hangar is concerned, we are building in such a way so that it can accommodate both the Rafales and Sukhoi MKIs as we cannot build hangers and keep changing it. When we build a facility, we have to do in a manner so that it serves the Indian Air Force for the next 40-50 years. Engineers and staff of the technical teams of Dassault Aviation from France are working at the Air Force Station on a war footing,” said a senior Air Force official. This apart, work on building a new facility in the Air Force Station and resurfacing of the runway has begun. “Sukhois and Rafales are jets that tend to pick up any particles on the runway. Hence, resurfacing is important for smooth landings and takeoffs. Work on resurfacing the runway has begun already. The runway will be ready in a year,” added the official. The last time the 8,500-9,000 ft in length runway was resurfaced was way back in 1993. While there were plans extending the runway, it was dropped later. Hasimara air base came up post the 1962 Sino-India War. This air base has housed several squadrons of the fighter jets like the - Gnats, Ajeets, Hunters, MiG-21Bis and the Mig-27 ML fighter jets.

Hasimara Air Force Station in Bengal to be ready by 2020 to house Rafale jets

A BJP delegation on Saturday submitted letters to the West Bengal government, stating its readiness to join discussions over its 'rath yatra'.

"We have said in the letters that the BJP is ready to join the discussion in an hour's notice on any time within December 12 (Wednesday) as directed by the Calcutta High Court," BJP state vice-president Jayprakash Majumdar told news agency PTI.

"We have informed the state government that we are ready for discussion on the 'rath yatra' issue. The situation is that the state government is not capable of maintaining law and order. Also, there is no democracy in the state," senior party leader Mukul Roy alleged.

The move comes a day after a division bench of the Calcutta High Court directed three BJP representatives to meet state Chief Secretary, Home Secretary and DGP by December 12 over the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-move-sc-if-needed-vijayvargiya-on-wb-rath-yatra-issue-182320">Rath Yatra issue</a>.

The Court began hearing BJP's plea against refusal of permission for its Rath Yatra on Friday.&nbsp;

The high court on Friday also directed top state officials to take a decision on the processions by December 14.

The 'rath yatra' in Cooch Behar district was slated to be the first of the three by the BJP before the Lok Sabha polls next year. The other two were to be held on December 9 from Kakdwip in South 24 Parganas district and on December 14 from Tarapith temple in Birbhum district.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, BJP president Amit Shah on Friday said that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-will-conduct-rath-yatra-nobody-can-stop-us-amit-shah-182194">the Yatra will be carried out definitely</a> and that no one can stop the party from conducting the rallies.&nbsp;

"We will do everything legally and we will conduct three rallies. The rallies have not been cancelled but postponed. Yatra, as scheduled, will go to every part of West Bengal. I will go to West Bengal tomorrow," the BJP chief said.&nbsp;

He attacked West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee noting that she is trying to stop the Yatra as she is "scared."

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A BJP delegation on Saturday submitted letters to the West Bengal government, stating its readiness to join discussions over its 'rath yatra'. "We have said in the letters that the BJP is ready to join the discussion in an hour's notice on any time within December 12 (Wednesday) as directed by the Calcutta High Court," BJP state vice-president Jayprakash Majumdar told news agency PTI.

A BJP delegation on Saturday submitted letters to the West Bengal government, stating its readiness to join discussions over its 'rath yatra'. "We have said in the letters that the BJP is ready to join the discussion in an hour's notice on any time within December 12 (Wednesday) as directed by the Calcutta High Court," BJP state vice-president Jayprakash Majumdar told news agency PTI. "We have informed the state government that we are ready for discussion on the 'rath yatra' issue. The situation is that the state government is not capable of maintaining law and order. Also, there is no democracy in the state," senior party leader Mukul Roy alleged. The move comes a day after a division bench of the Calcutta High Court directed three BJP representatives to meet state Chief Secretary, Home Secretary and DGP by December 12 over the Rath Yatra issue. The Court began hearing BJP's plea against refusal of permission for its Rath Yatra on Friday. The high court on Friday also directed top state officials to take a decision on the processions by December 14. The 'rath yatra' in Cooch Behar district was slated to be the first of the three by the BJP before the Lok Sabha polls next year. The other two were to be held on December 9 from Kakdwip in South 24 Parganas district and on December 14 from Tarapith temple in Birbhum district. Meanwhile, BJP president Amit Shah on Friday said that the Yatra will be carried out definitely and that no one can stop the party from conducting the rallies. "We will do everything legally and we will conduct three rallies. The rallies have not been cancelled but postponed. Yatra, as scheduled, will go to every part of West Bengal. I will go to West Bengal tomorrow," the BJP chief said. He attacked West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee noting that she is trying to stop the Yatra as she is "scared." (With inputs from PTI)

Rath Yatra: BJP delegation submits letters to West Bengal government

BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya said Friday that the party would move the Supreme Court "if needed" to hold the much-touted 'rath yatras' across West Bengal.

"If needed, we will move the Supreme Court to get justice," he told the media here after the Calcutta High Court modified the single bench order of Thursday and directed the state chief secretary, home secretary and director general of police to sit with three BJP leaders by December 12 and take a decision on the matter by December 14.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rath-yatra-calcutta-high-court-directs-bjp-reps-to-meet-state-chief-secy-dgp-final-move-to-be-taken-by-dec-14-182248">Calcutta High Court</a> also came down heavily on the West Bengal government for not responding to letters of the BJP seeking permission for its processions in the state.

Vijayvargiya stood by the BJP state leadership saying, "There was no lapse on their part and the entire party stands united and we are with the state (party) president" as he blamed the state government and its policy to "throttle the opposition" for putting on hold the 'rath yatras', which was scheduled to be flagged off by BJP president Amit Shah.

Reacting to the HC division bench ruling, BJP state president Dilip Ghosh said, "We thank the court for its verdict. The state government for so many days didn't have time to discuss the matter with us. Now they will sit for discussion".

In Delhi, Shah told a press conference that BJP's growth in West Bengal has "scared" Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

He also accused her of "throttling" democracy in the state by denying permission to the three 'rath yatras' of his party.

"We will definitely carry out all yatras, nobody can stop us. The BJP is committed to change in West Bengal. The yatras have not been cancelled, just postponed," he said.

A party source, however, said on condition of anonymity that the BJP central leadership is unhappy with the party's state leaders as the rath yatra programme had to be put on hold.

A section of the leadership felt that the party had to go back on the programme at "the last moment due to lack of proper strategy and planning" when all preparation for the three 'rath yatras' slated for December 7, 9 and 14 was ready.

The division bench of Justices Biswanath Somadder and A Mukherjee during the day criticised the state government for not responding to BJP's letters for permission to hold three rath yatras in the state.

It modified the single bench order and directed the state chief secretary, home secretary and director general of police to sit with three BJP leaders by December 12 and take a decision on the matter by December 14.

Shah was to kickstart the campaign titled 'Save Democracy Rally' from Coochbehar district in the northern part of the state Friday, from Kakdwip in South 24 Parganas district on December 9, and from Tarapith temple in Birbhum district on December 14.

The 'rath yatra' was scheduled to cover all 42 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya said Friday that the party would move the Supreme Court "if needed" to hold the much-touted 'rath yatras' across West Bengal.

BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya said Friday that the party would move the Supreme Court "if needed" to hold the much-touted 'rath yatras' across West Bengal. "If needed, we will move the Supreme Court to get justice," he told the media here after the Calcutta High Court modified the single bench order of Thursday and directed the state chief secretary, home secretary and director general of police to sit with three BJP leaders by December 12 and take a decision on the matter by December 14. The Calcutta High Court also came down heavily on the West Bengal government for not responding to letters of the BJP seeking permission for its processions in the state. Vijayvargiya stood by the BJP state leadership saying, "There was no lapse on their part and the entire party stands united and we are with the state (party) president" as he blamed the state government and its policy to "throttle the opposition" for putting on hold the 'rath yatras', which was scheduled to be flagged off by BJP president Amit Shah. Reacting to the HC division bench ruling, BJP state president Dilip Ghosh said, "We thank the court for its verdict. The state government for so many days didn't have time to discuss the matter with us. Now they will sit for discussion". In Delhi, Shah told a press conference that BJP's growth in West Bengal has "scared" Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. He also accused her of "throttling" democracy in the state by denying permission to the three 'rath yatras' of his party. "We will definitely carry out all yatras, nobody can stop us. The BJP is committed to change in West Bengal. The yatras have not been cancelled, just postponed," he said. A party source, however, said on condition of anonymity that the BJP central leadership is unhappy with the party's state leaders as the rath yatra programme had to be put on hold. A section of the leadership felt that the party had to go back on the programme at "the last moment due to lack of proper strategy and planning" when all preparation for the three 'rath yatras' slated for December 7, 9 and 14 was ready. The division bench of Justices Biswanath Somadder and A Mukherjee during the day criticised the state government for not responding to BJP's letters for permission to hold three rath yatras in the state. It modified the single bench order and directed the state chief secretary, home secretary and director general of police to sit with three BJP leaders by December 12 and take a decision on the matter by December 14. Shah was to kickstart the campaign titled 'Save Democracy Rally' from Coochbehar district in the northern part of the state Friday, from Kakdwip in South 24 Parganas district on December 9, and from Tarapith temple in Birbhum district on December 14. The 'rath yatra' was scheduled to cover all 42 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state.

Will move SC if needed: Vijayvargiya on WB 'rath yatra' issue

BJP chief Amit Shah on Friday stated that the Rath Yatra will be conducted as planned, adding that the party will "do everything legally and we will conduct three rallies."

Shah noted that the rallies have been postponed and not cancelled and will go to "every part of West Bengal." "Nobody can stop us," he noted.

"We will do everything legally and we will conduct three rallies. The rallies have not been cancelled but postponed. Yatra, as scheduled, will go to every part of West Bengal. I will go to West Bengal tomorrow," the BJP chief said.&nbsp;

He attacked West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee noting that she is trying to stop the Yatra as she is "scared."

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BJP President Amit Shah: We will do everything legally and we will conduct three rallies.The rallies have not been cancelled but postponed. Yatra as scheduled will go to every part of West Bengal.I will go to West Bengal tomorrow. <a href="https://t.co/SRZ9pNworg">pic.twitter.com/SRZ9pNworg</a>
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"Mamata Banerjee is scared of BJP and this is why she has stopped the Rath Yatra. In every sector starting from cattle to coal, mafias are working and TMC ministers are supporting them," Shah added.&nbsp;

Shah's comments came a day after the Calcutta High Court refused the BJP permission to hold a 'rath yatra' in Coochbehar, following the state government expressing apprehensions of violence.

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BJP President Amit Shah: After the Panchayat elections, Mamata Banerjee is scared of BJP &amp; this is why she has stopped the Rath yatra. In every sector starting from cattle to coal, mafias are working &amp; TMC ministers are supporting them. <a href="https://t.co/YFGB7a1dum">pic.twitter.com/YFGB7a1dum</a>
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A division bench of the <a href="&quot;http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rath-yatra-bjp-moves-calcutta-high-court-against-refusal-of-permission-182130">Calcutta Calcutta High Court began hearing BJP's plea</a> against refusal of permission for its Rath Yatra earlier today.

The BJP leadership on Friday convened an emergency meeting to discuss the future course of action after uncertainty loomed over the party's Rath Yatra programme.

The BJP had decided to put on hold Shah's proposed rally and the Rath Yatra, saying it will wait for the final order from the high court.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, party state president Dilip Ghosh alleged that Banerjee-led West Bengal government has tried to stop the BJP from conducting a rally or a political programme.&nbsp;

"Whenever we have wanted to take out a rally or conduct a political programme, the state government has tried to stop it either by denying us permission or tried to create procedural hurdles," he alleged.

BJP chief Amit Shah on Friday stated that the Rath Yatra will be conducted as planned, adding that the party will "do everything legally and we will conduct three rallies.

BJP chief Amit Shah on Friday stated that the Rath Yatra will be conducted as planned, adding that the party will "do everything legally and we will conduct three rallies." Shah noted that the rallies have been postponed and not cancelled and will go to "every part of West Bengal." "Nobody can stop us," he noted. "We will do everything legally and we will conduct three rallies. The rallies have not been cancelled but postponed. Yatra, as scheduled, will go to every part of West Bengal. I will go to West Bengal tomorrow," the BJP chief said. He attacked West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee noting that she is trying to stop the Yatra as she is "scared." BJP President Amit Shah: We will do everything legally and we will conduct three rallies.The rallies have not been cancelled but postponed. Yatra as scheduled will go to every part of West Bengal.I will go to West Bengal tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/SRZ9pNworg — ANI (@ANI) December 7, 2018 × "Mamata Banerjee is scared of BJP and this is why she has stopped the Rath Yatra. In every sector starting from cattle to coal, mafias are working and TMC ministers are supporting them," Shah added. Shah's comments came a day after the Calcutta High Court refused the BJP permission to hold a 'rath yatra' in Coochbehar, following the state government expressing apprehensions of violence. BJP President Amit Shah: After the Panchayat elections, Mamata Banerjee is scared of BJP & this is why she has stopped the Rath yatra. In every sector starting from cattle to coal, mafias are working & TMC ministers are supporting them. pic.twitter.com/YFGB7a1dum — ANI (@ANI) December 7, 2018 × A division bench of the Calcutta Calcutta High Court began hearing BJP's plea against refusal of permission for its Rath Yatra earlier today. The BJP leadership on Friday convened an emergency meeting to discuss the future course of action after uncertainty loomed over the party's Rath Yatra programme. The BJP had decided to put on hold Shah's proposed rally and the Rath Yatra, saying it will wait for the final order from the high court. Meanwhile, party state president Dilip Ghosh alleged that Banerjee-led West Bengal government has tried to stop the BJP from conducting a rally or a political programme. "Whenever we have wanted to take out a rally or conduct a political programme, the state government has tried to stop it either by denying us permission or tried to create procedural hurdles," he alleged.

We will conduct Rath Yatra, nobody can stop us: Amit Shah

The poverty-stricken parents Of two minor girls in Jharkhand who were allegedly sold off to a brick-kiln owner in West Bengal have said that they left behind their daughters in the care of the businessman so that they could be looked after by his family, police said.

A section of the media had reported Monday that a tribal couple at Toranghatu village in Jagannathpur sub-division of the district had sold off their two daughters, both minors, for Rs 1,500 each to a brick-kiln owner of Howrah, three years ago.

A probe has been ordered by the West Singhbhum district administration.

Jagannathpur Sub-divisional Police Officer (SDPO), Prabhat Ranjan Barwar told that a police team had met the parents at their village on Monday.

A team will be proceeding to Howrah on Tuesday to trace the girls, he said. 
The SDPO said the parents, who used to work in the Howrah brick-kiln, told the police that they had initially kept one of the daughters with their employer so that they could be looked after properly.

After returning to their village, they decided to send their second daughter to the brick-kiln owner's family for her proper care.

The couple, however, denied having sold off their children to the businessman, the SDPO said.

The block development officer (BDO) concerned and the police have been directed to probe the incident and submit a report soon, Sub-Divisional Officer of Jagannathpur, Smrita Kumari had said Monday.

"I have also asked the Child Welfare Committee to look into the incident," she said.

Necessary action would be taken against the culprits on the basis of the findings, the officer had said.

"Though it is a three-year-old case, the incident came to our notice after a section of the media reported it on Monday," an official of the district administration said.

The poverty-stricken parents Of two minor girls in Jharkhand who were allegedly sold off to a brick-kiln owner in West Bengal have said that they left behind their daughters in the care of the businessman so that they could be looked after by his family, police said.

The poverty-stricken parents Of two minor girls in Jharkhand who were allegedly sold off to a brick-kiln owner in West Bengal have said that they left behind their daughters in the care of the businessman so that they could be looked after by his family, police said. A section of the media had reported Monday that a tribal couple at Toranghatu village in Jagannathpur sub-division of the district had sold off their two daughters, both minors, for Rs 1,500 each to a brick-kiln owner of Howrah, three years ago. A probe has been ordered by the West Singhbhum district administration. Jagannathpur Sub-divisional Police Officer (SDPO), Prabhat Ranjan Barwar told that a police team had met the parents at their village on Monday. A team will be proceeding to Howrah on Tuesday to trace the girls, he said. The SDPO said the parents, who used to work in the Howrah brick-kiln, told the police that they had initially kept one of the daughters with their employer so that they could be looked after properly. After returning to their village, they decided to send their second daughter to the brick-kiln owner's family for her proper care. The couple, however, denied having sold off their children to the businessman, the SDPO said. The block development officer (BDO) concerned and the police have been directed to probe the incident and submit a report soon, Sub-Divisional Officer of Jagannathpur, Smrita Kumari had said Monday. "I have also asked the Child Welfare Committee to look into the incident," she said. Necessary action would be taken against the culprits on the basis of the findings, the officer had said. "Though it is a three-year-old case, the incident came to our notice after a section of the media reported it on Monday," an official of the district administration said.

Tribal couple denies selling off daughters to brick-kiln owner

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has slapped Rs 5-crore fine on the West Bengal government for "failing to comply" with its two-year-old directive to improve air quality in Kolkata and Howrah.

The NGT Eastern Zone principal bench comprising Judges S P Wangdi and non-judicial member Nagin Nanda on Tuesday said the fine should be paid within two weeks of the order to the Central Pollution Control Board, failing which, the government will have to pay an additional Rs 1-crore as fine for every month's delay to the CPCB.

The order was given in the wake of West Bengal government not enforcing several measures recommended by the NGT in an earlier order in 2016 to check air pollution, the bench observed.

In the order, the NGT had recommended measures like introducing alternative mechanism to put a lid on high number of polluting diesel vehicles in the twin cities of Kolkata and Howrah, introducing remote sensing device (RSD) to monitor smoke emission, increasing number of computerised air monitoring stations from the existing ones.

The other measures include introducing the system of allowing private vehicles with odd and even registration numbers on specific days in the week, monitoring entry of non-BS 4 commercial vehicles to twin cities, stop burning of waste in dumping sites in different parts of state.

The green body in subsequent sittings in the intervening period of two years had sought to know if the West Bengal government's Environment department and the West Bengal Pollution Control Board had taken any steps towards the direction.

The NGT had passed the 2016 order on the basis of a report submitted by an expert committee but environmentalist Subhas Datta had moved a contempt petition recently which led to imposition of the fine by the tribunal.

The NGT on Tuesday also directed the West Bengal chief secretary to file an affidavit by January 8, 2019 regarding the follow-up action plan and payment of fine.

Environmentalist S M Ghosh said this was the culmination of a 20-year-old battle by environmentalists with a writ petition on health hazard caused by pollution first filed in 1999 at the Calcutta high court by him, another petition on the same issue filed by environmentalist Subhas Dutta in HC in 2006 and the case being transferred to NGT East bench in 2014.&nbsp;

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has slapped Rs 5-crore fine on the West Bengal government for "failing to comply" with its two-year-old directive to improve air quality in Kolkata and Howrah.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has slapped Rs 5-crore fine on the West Bengal government for "failing to comply" with its two-year-old directive to improve air quality in Kolkata and Howrah. The NGT Eastern Zone principal bench comprising Judges S P Wangdi and non-judicial member Nagin Nanda on Tuesday said the fine should be paid within two weeks of the order to the Central Pollution Control Board, failing which, the government will have to pay an additional Rs 1-crore as fine for every month's delay to the CPCB. The order was given in the wake of West Bengal government not enforcing several measures recommended by the NGT in an earlier order in 2016 to check air pollution, the bench observed. In the order, the NGT had recommended measures like introducing alternative mechanism to put a lid on high number of polluting diesel vehicles in the twin cities of Kolkata and Howrah, introducing remote sensing device (RSD) to monitor smoke emission, increasing number of computerised air monitoring stations from the existing ones. The other measures include introducing the system of allowing private vehicles with odd and even registration numbers on specific days in the week, monitoring entry of non-BS 4 commercial vehicles to twin cities, stop burning of waste in dumping sites in different parts of state. The green body in subsequent sittings in the intervening period of two years had sought to know if the West Bengal government's Environment department and the West Bengal Pollution Control Board had taken any steps towards the direction. The NGT had passed the 2016 order on the basis of a report submitted by an expert committee but environmentalist Subhas Datta had moved a contempt petition recently which led to imposition of the fine by the tribunal. The NGT on Tuesday also directed the West Bengal chief secretary to file an affidavit by January 8, 2019 regarding the follow-up action plan and payment of fine. Environmentalist S M Ghosh said this was the culmination of a 20-year-old battle by environmentalists with a writ petition on health hazard caused by pollution first filed in 1999 at the Calcutta high court by him, another petition on the same issue filed by environmentalist Subhas Dutta in HC in 2006 and the case being transferred to NGT East bench in 2014.

NGT slaps Rs 5 crore fine on West Bengal government for failing to curb air pollution

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu met West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Howrah on Monday. Soon after the two leaders concluded their meeting, they interacted with media.

According to reports, both the leaders discussed the future plan. "Today we have discussed the future plan. We can tell you one thing, we are all together to fight against the BJP to save the nation," Naidu stated.

"As senior leaders, Mamata Ji and I have some responsibilities. We've to save the nation and democracy, we have to protect institutions. You are watching from last many days, democracy is in danger. Institutions like CBI, ED, RBI and others are under pressure," he added.&nbsp;

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As senior leaders, I&amp;Mamata Ji have some responsibilities.We've to save the nation&amp;democracy,we have to protect institutions. You are watching from last many days,democracy is in danger.Institutions like CBI,ED,RBI&amp;others are under pressure: Andhra Pradesh CM after meeting WB CM <a href="https://t.co/jPGUWonRkW">pic.twitter.com/jPGUWonRkW</a>
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Banerjee, on the other hand, stated that "everybody will be the face of Mahagathbandhan."

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Everybody will be the face of Mahagathbandhan: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee when asked, "Who will be the face of Mahagathbandhan?" <a href="https://t.co/FHgUrsJJfp">pic.twitter.com/FHgUrsJJfp</a>
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Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, earlier this month, announced that an anti-BJP meet will be called in New Delhi on November 22 wherein parties would create a common platform and chalk out their future course of action.

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Today we have discussed the future plan. We can tell you one thing, we are all together to fight against the BJP govt to save the nation: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee after her meeting with Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu in Howrah <a href="https://t.co/jMi2yx37Mn">pic.twitter.com/jMi2yx37Mn</a>
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"This is broadly anti-BJP platform. This is in the interest of the nation. Save democracy, save the nation and save the institutions..That is the agenda. That is the national agenda, an utmost important agenda," Naidu said.

The TDP chief had recently met former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda, his Karnataka counterpart H D Kumaraswamy and DMK president M K Stalin as part of his efforts to forge a front against the BJP.

"Now I have convinced everybody. Everybody is willing to cooperate with us. In this experiment, Congress is the main opposition party. They have more responsibility. We have to acknowledge that," he noted.

The New Delhi meeting would decide on "how to move forward" and also "build an organisational structure" for the anti-BJP platform, he added.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu met West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Howrah on Monday. Soon after the two leaders concluded their meeting, they interacted with media.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu met West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Howrah on Monday. Soon after the two leaders concluded their meeting, they interacted with media. According to reports, both the leaders discussed the future plan. "Today we have discussed the future plan. We can tell you one thing, we are all together to fight against the BJP to save the nation," Naidu stated. "As senior leaders, Mamata Ji and I have some responsibilities. We've to save the nation and democracy, we have to protect institutions. You are watching from last many days, democracy is in danger. Institutions like CBI, ED, RBI and others are under pressure," he added. As senior leaders, I&Mamata Ji have some responsibilities.We've to save the nation&democracy,we have to protect institutions. You are watching from last many days,democracy is in danger.Institutions like CBI,ED,RBI&others are under pressure: Andhra Pradesh CM after meeting WB CM pic.twitter.com/jPGUWonRkW — ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2018 × Banerjee, on the other hand, stated that "everybody will be the face of Mahagathbandhan." Everybody will be the face of Mahagathbandhan: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee when asked, "Who will be the face of Mahagathbandhan?" pic.twitter.com/FHgUrsJJfp — ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2018 × Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, earlier this month, announced that an anti-BJP meet will be called in New Delhi on November 22 wherein parties would create a common platform and chalk out their future course of action. Today we have discussed the future plan. We can tell you one thing, we are all together to fight against the BJP govt to save the nation: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee after her meeting with Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu in Howrah pic.twitter.com/jMi2yx37Mn — ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2018 × "This is broadly anti-BJP platform. This is in the interest of the nation. Save democracy, save the nation and save the institutions..That is the agenda. That is the national agenda, an utmost important agenda," Naidu said. The TDP chief had recently met former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda, his Karnataka counterpart H D Kumaraswamy and DMK president M K Stalin as part of his efforts to forge a front against the BJP. "Now I have convinced everybody. Everybody is willing to cooperate with us. In this experiment, Congress is the main opposition party. They have more responsibility. We have to acknowledge that," he noted. The New Delhi meeting would decide on "how to move forward" and also "build an organisational structure" for the anti-BJP platform, he added. (With inputs from ANI)

We are all together to fight against BJP to save the nation: Naidu after meeting Mamata Banerjee

A day after Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-andhra-west-bengal-withdraws-general-consent-to-cbi-bjp-sees-grand-alliance-of-corrupt-parties-177777">withdrew the "general consent"</a> accorded to the CBI to conduct raids and carry out probe in the state, Finance minister Arun Jaitley rebuked the two governments saying scams cannot be wiped off by such a decision.

At the launch of the party mainifesto for the upcoming assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh, the finance minister targetted the two governments saying that only those who have a lot to hide will take steps to keep the CBI out of the state.

He further added that the CBI was created initially for employees of the Central government and then to investigate very serious cases referred to it either by states or on court orders.&nbsp;

Targetting the West Bengal government Jaitley&nbsp;referred to the Sarada ponzi scam and the Narada sting operation which involved cash bribes and senior Trinamool Congress leaders.

In Andhra Pradesh, the minister said the decision to keep the CBI away was not motivated by any particular case but by the fear of "what is likely to happen". "It is only those who have a lot to hide will take step of saying let CBI not come to my state," he said.&nbsp;

Responding to the withdrawal, BJP spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao said leaders of the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal and the Gandhi family of the Congress were facing probe in "corruption" cases. He further added that the steps taken by the two governments was to ensure that its "corruption" was not exposed.

The Congress, on the other hand, had cited the Andhra Pradesh government's decision to claims that states do not have faith in the CBI and other central agencies due to their "misuse" by the Narendra Modi government at the Centre.

(With inputs from agencies)

A day after Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal withdrew the "general consent" accorded to the CBI to conduct raids and carry out probe in the state, Finance minister Arun Jaitley rebuked the two governments saying scams cannot be wiped off by such a decision.

A day after Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal withdrew the "general consent" accorded to the CBI to conduct raids and carry out probe in the state, Finance minister Arun Jaitley rebuked the two governments saying scams cannot be wiped off by such a decision. At the launch of the party mainifesto for the upcoming assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh, the finance minister targetted the two governments saying that only those who have a lot to hide will take steps to keep the CBI out of the state. He further added that the CBI was created initially for employees of the Central government and then to investigate very serious cases referred to it either by states or on court orders. Targetting the West Bengal government Jaitley referred to the Sarada ponzi scam and the Narada sting operation which involved cash bribes and senior Trinamool Congress leaders. In Andhra Pradesh, the minister said the decision to keep the CBI away was not motivated by any particular case but by the fear of "what is likely to happen". "It is only those who have a lot to hide will take step of saying let CBI not come to my state," he said. Responding to the withdrawal, BJP spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao said leaders of the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal and the Gandhi family of the Congress were facing probe in "corruption" cases. He further added that the steps taken by the two governments was to ensure that its "corruption" was not exposed. The Congress, on the other hand, had cited the Andhra Pradesh government's decision to claims that states do not have faith in the CBI and other central agencies due to their "misuse" by the Narendra Modi government at the Centre. (With inputs from agencies)

They have a lot to hide: Jaitley rebukes West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh govt over CBI withdrawal

The Andhra Pradesh government's decision to withdraw the "general consent" accorded to the CBI to conduct raids and carry out probe in the state drew support from opposition parties with West Bengal government following suit even as the BJP alleged that it was an attempt by a "grand alliance of most corrupt parties" to ensure that its "corruption" was not exposed.

Escalating its confrontation with the Union government, the Chandrababu Naidu dispensation in Andhra Pradesh withdrew its consent to the CBI. The West Bengal government did the same this evening.

BJP spokesperson G V L Narasimhra Rao described the Telugu Desam Party government's order as a "clear mala fide exercise of power" to ensure that its "corruption" was not exposed, alleging that a "grand alliance of most corrupt parties" had taken shape to protect their interests.

Leaders of the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal and the Gandhi family of the Congress were facing probe in "corruption" cases, he said, adding that it had led to a "convergence of their interests" with Naidu.

However, the Congress cited the Andhra Pradesh government's decision to claims that states do not have faith in the CBI and other central agencies due to their "misuse" by the Narendra Modi government at the Centre.

"Unfortunately in the last four-five years they (central agencies) have been treated like private armies of Amit Shah (BJP chief) and the prime minister... That is why people doubt the ability of CBI to act independently or to act without pressure," Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said.

He described it as a "very dangerous trend".

After the Andhra Pradesh government's announcement, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee extended her support to her counterpart Naidu over the issue.

"What Chandrababu Naidu has done is absolutely right. Earlier, we didn't need to use such provisions but we need to do it now as the BJP is using the CBI and other agencies to pursue its own political interests and vendetta," she said in Kolkata.

Aam Aadmi Party chief and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal too backed Naidu.

"Chandrababu did the right thing. Modi ji is misusing CBI and Income Tax department. Why did not CBI catch scamsters of demonetisation," he tweeted in Hindi.

Hitting back at opposition parties, Rao said, "We are seeing a grand alliance of the most corrupt parties. Their interests have converged to ensure that their corruption is not exposed."

The Andhra government's decision showed that it had many skeletons in its cupboards, he alleged.

"A nervous and completely rattled Naidu is trying to save his government," Rao told reporters.

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister (Home) N China Rajappa cited the recent allegations against the top CBI officials to justify the decision.

"We have trust in the CBI but the recent allegations against its top officials have made us withdraw the general consent. Henceforth, the CBI has to obtain the state governments permission for investigating every case," Rajappa said.

The Andhra Pradesh government's decision to withdraw the "general consent" accorded to the CBI to conduct raids and carry out probe in the state drew support from opposition parties with West Bengal government following suit even as the BJP alleged that it was an attempt by a "grand alliance of most corrupt parties" to ensure that its "corruption" was not exposed.

The Andhra Pradesh government's decision to withdraw the "general consent" accorded to the CBI to conduct raids and carry out probe in the state drew support from opposition parties with West Bengal government following suit even as the BJP alleged that it was an attempt by a "grand alliance of most corrupt parties" to ensure that its "corruption" was not exposed. Escalating its confrontation with the Union government, the Chandrababu Naidu dispensation in Andhra Pradesh withdrew its consent to the CBI. The West Bengal government did the same this evening. BJP spokesperson G V L Narasimhra Rao described the Telugu Desam Party government's order as a "clear mala fide exercise of power" to ensure that its "corruption" was not exposed, alleging that a "grand alliance of most corrupt parties" had taken shape to protect their interests. Leaders of the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal and the Gandhi family of the Congress were facing probe in "corruption" cases, he said, adding that it had led to a "convergence of their interests" with Naidu. However, the Congress cited the Andhra Pradesh government's decision to claims that states do not have faith in the CBI and other central agencies due to their "misuse" by the Narendra Modi government at the Centre. "Unfortunately in the last four-five years they (central agencies) have been treated like private armies of Amit Shah (BJP chief) and the prime minister... That is why people doubt the ability of CBI to act independently or to act without pressure," Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said. He described it as a "very dangerous trend". After the Andhra Pradesh government's announcement, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee extended her support to her counterpart Naidu over the issue. "What Chandrababu Naidu has done is absolutely right. Earlier, we didn't need to use such provisions but we need to do it now as the BJP is using the CBI and other agencies to pursue its own political interests and vendetta," she said in Kolkata. Aam Aadmi Party chief and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal too backed Naidu. "Chandrababu did the right thing. Modi ji is misusing CBI and Income Tax department. Why did not CBI catch scamsters of demonetisation," he tweeted in Hindi. Hitting back at opposition parties, Rao said, "We are seeing a grand alliance of the most corrupt parties. Their interests have converged to ensure that their corruption is not exposed." The Andhra government's decision showed that it had many skeletons in its cupboards, he alleged. "A nervous and completely rattled Naidu is trying to save his government," Rao told reporters. Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister (Home) N China Rajappa cited the recent allegations against the top CBI officials to justify the decision. "We have trust in the CBI but the recent allegations against its top officials have made us withdraw the general consent. Henceforth, the CBI has to obtain the state governments permission for investigating every case," Rajappa said.

After Andhra, West Bengal withdraws 'general consent' to CBI, BJP sees 'grand alliance of corrupt parties'

The West Bengal Police has filed a charge sheet against three persons in connection with the brutal gangrape of a woman in Jalpaiguri district, five days after the incident on October 20, a police officer said Friday.

The 35-year-old woman was raped and an iron rod inserted in her private parts brought back memories of the ghastly Nirbhaya rape case of 2012.

Police filed a charge sheet against the three accused Thursday, the police officer said.

The accused have been charge-sheeted under Sections 376D (gangrape), 326 (causing grievous injury) and 307 (attempt to murder) of the Indian Penal Code.

Under Section 326 the minimum punishment is 10 years and under Section 376 D it is 20 years. The maximum punishment under both these provisions is life term. Under Section 307 the maximum punishment is 10 years.

While we have arrested two persons, one is still absconding, Superintendent of Police (SP) of Jalpaiguri Mitava Maity said.

The incident had taken place near the victim's home at Niranjan Pat locality of Jalpaiguri district.

The prime accused, a relative of the woman, had called her out of her home on the pretext of resolving a land dispute, the SP had earlier said.

He then allegedly raped her and tortured her by inserting an iron rod in her private parts, the SP had said.

Two other persons accompanied the accused, but they did not rape or torture her, the SP had said after he had spoken to the woman, following her operation, at the hospital.

The accused relative and another person who allegedly helped him in the crime were arrested, but the third accused has been absconding.

The tribal woman's husband, a labourer, was away from home during the incident. The woman has three children.

A rickshaw-puller had found her and took her home. She was taken to Dhupguri hospital on October 21 morning and shifted to Jalpaiguri Sadar Hospital.

Doctors operated on her at the Sadar Hospital here on that night and the woman was kept in the intensive care unit.

She was administered blood as she had been bleeding profusely.

"She is in a serious condition but is stable," doctors treating her had said Wednesday.

She was shifted to the critical care unit (CCU) from the ICU on Thursday and doctors at the hospital said that her condition was stable, they said on Friday.&nbsp;

The West Bengal Police has filed a charge sheet against three persons in connection with the brutal gangrape of a woman in Jalpaiguri district, five days after the incident on October 20, a police officer said Friday.

The West Bengal Police has filed a charge sheet against three persons in connection with the brutal gangrape of a woman in Jalpaiguri district, five days after the incident on October 20, a police officer said Friday. The 35-year-old woman was raped and an iron rod inserted in her private parts brought back memories of the ghastly Nirbhaya rape case of 2012. Police filed a charge sheet against the three accused Thursday, the police officer said. The accused have been charge-sheeted under Sections 376D (gangrape), 326 (causing grievous injury) and 307 (attempt to murder) of the Indian Penal Code. Under Section 326 the minimum punishment is 10 years and under Section 376 D it is 20 years. The maximum punishment under both these provisions is life term. Under Section 307 the maximum punishment is 10 years. While we have arrested two persons, one is still absconding, Superintendent of Police (SP) of Jalpaiguri Mitava Maity said. The incident had taken place near the victim's home at Niranjan Pat locality of Jalpaiguri district. The prime accused, a relative of the woman, had called her out of her home on the pretext of resolving a land dispute, the SP had earlier said. He then allegedly raped her and tortured her by inserting an iron rod in her private parts, the SP had said. Two other persons accompanied the accused, but they did not rape or torture her, the SP had said after he had spoken to the woman, following her operation, at the hospital. The accused relative and another person who allegedly helped him in the crime were arrested, but the third accused has been absconding. The tribal woman's husband, a labourer, was away from home during the incident. The woman has three children. A rickshaw-puller had found her and took her home. She was taken to Dhupguri hospital on October 21 morning and shifted to Jalpaiguri Sadar Hospital. Doctors operated on her at the Sadar Hospital here on that night and the woman was kept in the intensive care unit. She was administered blood as she had been bleeding profusely. "She is in a serious condition but is stable," doctors treating her had said Wednesday. She was shifted to the critical care unit (CCU) from the ICU on Thursday and doctors at the hospital said that her condition was stable, they said on Friday.

Police files charge sheet against three in Bengal gangrape case

Two people have died and 14 have been injured in a&nbsp;stampede at the Santragachhi railway station in West Bengal's Howrah district.&nbsp;

The stampede broke out at about 6 pm Tuesday evening, the Railways said. The Railways added that the stampede was caused by a heavy rush of passengers on a footbridge.&nbsp;

Witnesses said two trains had just arrived at the station and a third was about to arrive, causing the sudden rush of passengers. The witnesses reported massive panic among the passengers.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee called for an&nbsp;investigation "as I feel that there has been negligence on the part of Railways".&nbsp;

"... too many such tragedies are happening like this," she had tweeted earlier.&nbsp;"Safety of rail passengers must be taken care of at all times."&nbsp;&nbsp;

The injured meanwhile have been rushed to hospital.

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Two people are dead in the incident. There should be an investigation, as I feel that there has been negligence on the part of railways: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on stampede at Santragachhi junction in Howrah. <a href="https://t.co/nHdRPzlKzR">pic.twitter.com/nHdRPzlKzR</a>
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&nbsp;

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West Bengal: 14 injured in a stampede following heavy rush of passengers on a footbridge at Santragachhi junction in Howrah. Injured shifted to hospital <a href="https://t.co/CJw1oXbFSC">pic.twitter.com/CJw1oXbFSC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1054752036854657024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Another unfortunate incident on railways today. Sadly, too many such tragedies are happening like this even during festive season, including Amritsar. Railways are the lifeline of our nation. Safety of rail passengers must be taken care of at all times
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial/status/1054763575682719744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Banerjee also announced compensation of Rs 5 lakh would be paid to the family of the deceased, and Rs 1 lakh to each of the injured.&nbsp;

The Railways meanwhile has issued helpline numbers.

The numbers are 0322-21072 (Kharagpur) and 0332-6295561 (Santragachi).&nbsp;

Two people have died and 14 have been injured in a stampede at the Santragachhi railway station in West Bengal's Howrah district. The stampede broke out at about 6 pm Tuesday evening, the Railways said.

Two people have died and 14 have been injured in a stampede at the Santragachhi railway station in West Bengal's Howrah district. The stampede broke out at about 6 pm Tuesday evening, the Railways said. The Railways added that the stampede was caused by a heavy rush of passengers on a footbridge. Witnesses said two trains had just arrived at the station and a third was about to arrive, causing the sudden rush of passengers. The witnesses reported massive panic among the passengers. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee called for an investigation "as I feel that there has been negligence on the part of Railways". "... too many such tragedies are happening like this," she had tweeted earlier. "Safety of rail passengers must be taken care of at all times." The injured meanwhile have been rushed to hospital. Two people are dead in the incident. There should be an investigation, as I feel that there has been negligence on the part of railways: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on stampede at Santragachhi junction in Howrah. pic.twitter.com/nHdRPzlKzR — ANI (@ANI) October 23, 2018 × West Bengal: 14 injured in a stampede following heavy rush of passengers on a footbridge at Santragachhi junction in Howrah. Injured shifted to hospital pic.twitter.com/CJw1oXbFSC — ANI (@ANI) October 23, 2018 × Another unfortunate incident on railways today. Sadly, too many such tragedies are happening like this even during festive season, including Amritsar. Railways are the lifeline of our nation. Safety of rail passengers must be taken care of at all times — Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) October 23, 2018 × Banerjee also announced compensation of Rs 5 lakh would be paid to the family of the deceased, and Rs 1 lakh to each of the injured. The Railways meanwhile has issued helpline numbers. The numbers are 0322-21072 (Kharagpur) and 0332-6295561 (Santragachi).

West Bengal: Two dead, 14 injured in stampede at railway station in Howrah

The killing of a BJP and a TMC worker in two separate incidents in Birbhum district of West Bengal has triggered a fresh round of battle between the two parties with both blaming each other for the killings.

The body of BJP worker Tapas Bagdi was found hanging from a tree in Dwaraka village of Birbhum district, while TMC block president Dipak Ghosh was shot dead by unidentified assailants in the Khayrasole area of the same district Sunday night, police said.

Bagdi's family members said he had left the house after lunch. As he did not return home by night, his family started searching for him and found the body hanging from a tree.

The BJP Birbhum district leadership claimed Bagdi was a party worker.

Ananda Bagdi, father of the deceased, lodged a complaint at the Labhpur police station against five local TMC workers alleging that they killed his son, police said.

The district TMC leaders denied the allegations and said, "Our workers were not at all involved in this case."

Superintendent of Police (SP), Birbhum, Kunal Agarwal said the cause of Bagdi's death would be known only after a postmortem.

"We are now treating it as a case of unnatural death. We don't know whether the person was affiliated to any political party," the SP said.

On the Dipak Ghosh murder case, the SP said seven people have been detained for interrogation.

BJP state president Dilip Ghosh said the TMC had let loose a "reign of terror" across the state and was trying to annihilate BJP workers.

"The TMC is trying to kill our party workers. Our party workers are either harassed, threatened or killed just because they are associated with the BJP. This is really shameful," he said.

The incident brought back memories of two BJP workers found hanging in West Bengal's Purulia district on June 2 and May 31, respectively, just after the panchayat polls concluded in the state.

The central BJP unit had hold nation-wide agitations to protest against the killing of two Dalit workers. BJP national president Amit Shah had also held a rally in Purulia to protest against the killing and had called for defeating the TMC in the state.

TMC Khayrasole block president Dipak Ghosh who was shot at Sunday night by unidentified persons passed away at a private hospital Monday, police said.

Ghosh was riding a motorcycle with a party worker when unidentified persons fired at him near Khayrasole village. Ghosh received bullet injuries to his shoulder and the lower parts of the body.

Birbhum district TMC president Anubrata Mondal alleged that goons hired by the BJP attacked Ghosh.

BJP district president Ramkrishna Roy denied the allegations and claimed that the killing was a result of the TMC's infighting.

Roy's views were endorsed by BJP state president Ghosh who claimed that Birbhum district had over the years turned into a battlefield due to the TMC's infighting.

"The allegations against our party are completely baseless. The TMC leadership should first answer why so many incidents are being reported regularly about infighting within the party," he said.

Senior TMC leader and state minister Firhad Hakim termed the allegations of infighting as baseless and accused the BJP of killing TMC workers in the state.

"Just for the sake of power, the BJP is trying spread violence in various parts of the state. They are trying to terrorise us by killing our party workers. But we are soldiers of Mamata Banerjee and we won't let the divisive politics of the BJP succeed in the state," Hakim said.

The killing of a BJP and a TMC worker in two separate incidents in Birbhum district of West Bengal has triggered a fresh round of battle between the two parties with both blaming each other for the killings.

The killing of a BJP and a TMC worker in two separate incidents in Birbhum district of West Bengal has triggered a fresh round of battle between the two parties with both blaming each other for the killings. The body of BJP worker Tapas Bagdi was found hanging from a tree in Dwaraka village of Birbhum district, while TMC block president Dipak Ghosh was shot dead by unidentified assailants in the Khayrasole area of the same district Sunday night, police said. Bagdi's family members said he had left the house after lunch. As he did not return home by night, his family started searching for him and found the body hanging from a tree. The BJP Birbhum district leadership claimed Bagdi was a party worker. Ananda Bagdi, father of the deceased, lodged a complaint at the Labhpur police station against five local TMC workers alleging that they killed his son, police said. The district TMC leaders denied the allegations and said, "Our workers were not at all involved in this case." Superintendent of Police (SP), Birbhum, Kunal Agarwal said the cause of Bagdi's death would be known only after a postmortem. "We are now treating it as a case of unnatural death. We don't know whether the person was affiliated to any political party," the SP said. On the Dipak Ghosh murder case, the SP said seven people have been detained for interrogation. BJP state president Dilip Ghosh said the TMC had let loose a "reign of terror" across the state and was trying to annihilate BJP workers. "The TMC is trying to kill our party workers. Our party workers are either harassed, threatened or killed just because they are associated with the BJP. This is really shameful," he said. The incident brought back memories of two BJP workers found hanging in West Bengal's Purulia district on June 2 and May 31, respectively, just after the panchayat polls concluded in the state. The central BJP unit had hold nation-wide agitations to protest against the killing of two Dalit workers. BJP national president Amit Shah had also held a rally in Purulia to protest against the killing and had called for defeating the TMC in the state. TMC Khayrasole block president Dipak Ghosh who was shot at Sunday night by unidentified persons passed away at a private hospital Monday, police said. Ghosh was riding a motorcycle with a party worker when unidentified persons fired at him near Khayrasole village. Ghosh received bullet injuries to his shoulder and the lower parts of the body. Birbhum district TMC president Anubrata Mondal alleged that goons hired by the BJP attacked Ghosh. BJP district president Ramkrishna Roy denied the allegations and claimed that the killing was a result of the TMC's infighting. Roy's views were endorsed by BJP state president Ghosh who claimed that Birbhum district had over the years turned into a battlefield due to the TMC's infighting. "The allegations against our party are completely baseless. The TMC leadership should first answer why so many incidents are being reported regularly about infighting within the party," he said. Senior TMC leader and state minister Firhad Hakim termed the allegations of infighting as baseless and accused the BJP of killing TMC workers in the state. "Just for the sake of power, the BJP is trying spread violence in various parts of the state. They are trying to terrorise us by killing our party workers. But we are soldiers of Mamata Banerjee and we won't let the divisive politics of the BJP succeed in the state," Hakim said.

BJP, TMC workers' killing in West Bengal triggers fresh face-off between parties

Didi has apparently learned from her mistakes in the recent past. The TMC supremo is eager to prove that she doesn't differentiate between Hindu and Muslims, Bengalis and Non-Bengalis.

TMC swept the West Bengal Panchayat elections in May and the BJP emerged as the main challenger to the party. The CPI-M was at the third position, while the Congress was literally wiped out.&nbsp;

On the one hand, BJP's performance worked as a morale booster for the Saffron party, and a wake-up call for the TMC on the other. Panchayat election was the last significant electoral event before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and BJP has emerged as a strong player.

Mamata, accused of dividing people of the state on the religious lines to secure its vote bank, is trying to balance it out to avoid the backlash of the Hindu community.

Durga Puja&nbsp;

Last year, Banerjee drew massive criticism for her decision to impose restrictions on idol immersion during Durga Puja as it collided with Muharram. The Kolkata high court too slammed the state government for creating a divide between the two communities. “Let them (Hindus and Muslims) live in harmony, do not create a line between them," the court had observed.

To cover up the lapses, the chief minister, this year, announced a grant of Rs 28 Crore to 28,000 Puja committees across the state. This is not all. She also penned a theme song for a popular Durga Puja in the city.

The state government then also urged the Muslim community to avoid displaying weapons in processions during Muharram as this could hurt members of other communities.

Cyber War

To widen the use of social media in the run up for 2019 elections, Didi, last month, announced that her party will form a team of 30,000 'cyber sainiks' to counter BJP IT cell for their alleged vindictive politics.

Mamata said the warriors, without using any foul language, will take on the IT cell members of the BJP for their malicious attempts to defame TMC. According to reports, the warriors will respond to the BJP not just in Bengali but in Hindi as well.

BJP too is all set for the cyber war. Party chief Amit Shah and IT Cell head Amit Malviya met the IT cell members in Kolkata recently and reportedly asked them to take government's plans and policies to masses through social media.

TMC Hindi Wing&nbsp;

TMC has announced opening a Hindi wing in the party for a broader reach. Mamata also announced her desire to open a Hindu University in the state. This is again an effort by TMC to revamp its image and win the confidence of BJP's non-Bengali support base in the state.

Federal Front

Mamata Banerjee has been urging opposition parties to set aside their differences and come together to take on the BJP in 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Leading the pack to unite the opposition, Mamata has announced a massive anti-BJP rally to be held in Kolkata in January, 2019.

She has also met leaders of regional and opposition parties as her efforts to stitch an anti-BJP alliance. Several top opposition leaders, like &nbsp;Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah, have already confirmed their presence.

TMC has also planned to invite BSP Supremo Mayawati, Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Congress President Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

With all the above strategies, TMC is attempting to overhaul its image of being a party which indulges in minority appeasement and opportunistic politics.&nbsp;

To counter TMC's strategies, BJP has appointed Mukul Roy as the convener of the party's election management committee in West Bengal. Roy, who had quit the TMC to join BJP, is familiar with Mamata Banerjee's style of working.

Beginning December, the Saffron party will take out three Rath Yatras covering all the 42 parliamentary constituencies of the state. Through these Rath Yatras, the party also plans to reach out to the general people to garner support for Assam’s National Register of Citizens.

BJP is likely to score brownie points over TMC on NRC issue after Banerjee faced flak over her U-turn. Mamata, in 2005, had favoured NRC in West Bengal, claiming that the illegal immigrants in Bangladesh had spelt disaster for West Bengal.

However, this year she opposed the Assam’s National Register of Citizens.

West Bengal is crucial for the BJP for its growth in the Lok Sabha elections and the party is targetting at least 22 seats in the state. Meanwhile, TMC, confident of triggering a revolution by uniting the opposition to defeat the BJP in 2019, is putting its best efforts to maintain its stronghold in the state.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Didi has apparently learned from her mistakes in the recent past. The TMC supremo is eager to prove that she doesn't differentiate between Hindu and Muslims, Bengalis and Non-Bengalis.

Didi has apparently learned from her mistakes in the recent past. The TMC supremo is eager to prove that she doesn't differentiate between Hindu and Muslims, Bengalis and Non-Bengalis. TMC swept the West Bengal Panchayat elections in May and the BJP emerged as the main challenger to the party. The CPI-M was at the third position, while the Congress was literally wiped out. On the one hand, BJP's performance worked as a morale booster for the Saffron party, and a wake-up call for the TMC on the other. Panchayat election was the last significant electoral event before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and BJP has emerged as a strong player. Mamata, accused of dividing people of the state on the religious lines to secure its vote bank, is trying to balance it out to avoid the backlash of the Hindu community. Durga Puja Last year, Banerjee drew massive criticism for her decision to impose restrictions on idol immersion during Durga Puja as it collided with Muharram. The Kolkata high court too slammed the state government for creating a divide between the two communities. “Let them (Hindus and Muslims) live in harmony, do not create a line between them," the court had observed. To cover up the lapses, the chief minister, this year, announced a grant of Rs 28 Crore to 28,000 Puja committees across the state. This is not all. She also penned a theme song for a popular Durga Puja in the city. The state government then also urged the Muslim community to avoid displaying weapons in processions during Muharram as this could hurt members of other communities. Cyber War To widen the use of social media in the run up for 2019 elections, Didi, last month, announced that her party will form a team of 30,000 'cyber sainiks' to counter BJP IT cell for their alleged vindictive politics. Mamata said the warriors, without using any foul language, will take on the IT cell members of the BJP for their malicious attempts to defame TMC. According to reports, the warriors will respond to the BJP not just in Bengali but in Hindi as well. BJP too is all set for the cyber war. Party chief Amit Shah and IT Cell head Amit Malviya met the IT cell members in Kolkata recently and reportedly asked them to take government's plans and policies to masses through social media. TMC Hindi Wing TMC has announced opening a Hindi wing in the party for a broader reach. Mamata also announced her desire to open a Hindu University in the state. This is again an effort by TMC to revamp its image and win the confidence of BJP's non-Bengali support base in the state. Federal Front Mamata Banerjee has been urging opposition parties to set aside their differences and come together to take on the BJP in 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Leading the pack to unite the opposition, Mamata has announced a massive anti-BJP rally to be held in Kolkata in January, 2019. She has also met leaders of regional and opposition parties as her efforts to stitch an anti-BJP alliance. Several top opposition leaders, like Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah, have already confirmed their presence. TMC has also planned to invite BSP Supremo Mayawati, Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Congress President Rahul Gandhi. With all the above strategies, TMC is attempting to overhaul its image of being a party which indulges in minority appeasement and opportunistic politics. To counter TMC's strategies, BJP has appointed Mukul Roy as the convener of the party's election management committee in West Bengal. Roy, who had quit the TMC to join BJP, is familiar with Mamata Banerjee's style of working. Beginning December, the Saffron party will take out three Rath Yatras covering all the 42 parliamentary constituencies of the state. Through these Rath Yatras, the party also plans to reach out to the general people to garner support for Assam’s National Register of Citizens. BJP is likely to score brownie points over TMC on NRC issue after Banerjee faced flak over her U-turn. Mamata, in 2005, had favoured NRC in West Bengal, claiming that the illegal immigrants in Bangladesh had spelt disaster for West Bengal. However, this year she opposed the Assam’s National Register of Citizens. West Bengal is crucial for the BJP for its growth in the Lok Sabha elections and the party is targetting at least 22 seats in the state. Meanwhile, TMC, confident of triggering a revolution by uniting the opposition to defeat the BJP in 2019, is putting its best efforts to maintain its stronghold in the state. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

How TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee plans to take on BJP in West Bengal

A court in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district convicted four people on Thursday in connection with a hooch tragedy that left around 170 people dead in 2011.

Additional district and sessions judge P S Chakraborty found Noor Islam Fakir alias Khora Badshah, the prime accused, and three others -- Dukhi Laskar, Khairul Laskar and Nazmul alias Kola Laskar -- guilty in the case.

The quantum of punishment would be pronounced on Friday. The court also acquitted six others for lack of evidence.

In the worst hooch tragedy in the state, around 170 people died in December 2011 in Sangrampur in South 24 Parganas district after consuming toxic liquor.&nbsp;

A court in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district convicted four people on Thursday in connection with a hooch tragedy that left around 170 people dead in 2011.

A court in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district convicted four people on Thursday in connection with a hooch tragedy that left around 170 people dead in 2011. Additional district and sessions judge P S Chakraborty found Noor Islam Fakir alias Khora Badshah, the prime accused, and three others -- Dukhi Laskar, Khairul Laskar and Nazmul alias Kola Laskar -- guilty in the case. The quantum of punishment would be pronounced on Friday. The court also acquitted six others for lack of evidence. In the worst hooch tragedy in the state, around 170 people died in December 2011 in Sangrampur in South 24 Parganas district after consuming toxic liquor.

4 convicted in Bengal hooch tragedy that left 170 dead

An under-construction bridge collapsed in Kakdwip area of South 24 Parganas district on Monday, a senior official said.

There has been no report of any casualty, South 24 Parganas district magistrate Y&nbsp;Ratnakara Rao said.

"The incident happened on Monday morning. We are waiting for further details," the district magistrate said.

A team has been rushed to the spot to look into the incident, he said.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengal</a>: An under-construction bridge collapsed on Kalnagini river at Kakdwip in South 24 Parganas district. No injuries reported till now. <a href="https://t.co/7PDm3xJsJ6">pic.twitter.com/7PDm3xJsJ6</a>
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This is the third incident of the bridge collapse in the state in September.

Majerhat Bridge in south Kolkata had collapsed on September 4, killing three persons and injuring 24.

On September 7, an old bridge had collapsed near Siliguri in north Bengal leaving a truck driver injured.&nbsp;

An under-construction bridge collapsed in Kakdwip area of South 24 Parganas district on Monday, a senior official said. There has been no report of any casualty, South 24 Parganas district magistrate Y Ratnakara Rao said.

An under-construction bridge collapsed in Kakdwip area of South 24 Parganas district on Monday, a senior official said. There has been no report of any casualty, South 24 Parganas district magistrate Y Ratnakara Rao said. "The incident happened on Monday morning. We are waiting for further details," the district magistrate said. A team has been rushed to the spot to look into the incident, he said. #WestBengal: An under-construction bridge collapsed on Kalnagini river at Kakdwip in South 24 Parganas district. No injuries reported till now. pic.twitter.com/7PDm3xJsJ6 — ANI (@ANI) September 24, 2018 × This is the third incident of the bridge collapse in the state in September. Majerhat Bridge in south Kolkata had collapsed on September 4, killing three persons and injuring 24. On September 7, an old bridge had collapsed near Siliguri in north Bengal leaving a truck driver injured.

Video: Under-construction bridge collapses in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas

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