Amid factionalism and hurdles in its mass outreach programme, the West Bengal unit of the BJP, which has set a target of winning over 23 of 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state, is carrying out a survey to assess the winnability of its candidates.

With more than 60-70 aspirants throwing their hats into the ring for one seat, especially in the northern and southern part of the state, the party is grappling with internal dissent over ticket distribution.

Several factions, including the ones led by leaders who switched to the BJP from the TMC, are staking claims to the same seat, forcing the state unit to seek an assessment of its candidates to meet its 23-seat target, set by the saffron party's national president Amit Shah.

"It is unprecedented that we have been receiving such a huge number of applications for some seats. Ten years back, we used to have a tough time convincing people to contest on our ticket," a BJP state unit leader said, adding that a section of leaders has appealed to the central leadership to ensure that old timers don't feel sidelined.

The state unit, in consultation with the central leaders, has roped in an external agency to assess its prospects in the Lok Sabha constituencies, he said.

BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya told PTI that a candidate list will be prepared based on inputs by the external agency and the party's senior leaders.

"We have launched both external and internal surveys to assess the winnability of seats and candidates. The survey will cover aspects such as a candidate's potential in winning a seat and his popularity. Based on inputs from the internal survey and the external agency, we will prepare our list," he said.

Asked about internal dissent, Vijayvargiya said the BJP is a disciplined party and once the names of candidates are announced, every member will work to ensure their victory in the elections.

According to sources within the party, the state unit will send names of at least three candidates for every Lok Sabha seat to the central unit, which would then take a final call on the matter.

BJP state president Dilip Ghosh claimed that the party is putting in equal efforts in all constituencies, notwithstanding its target of winning at least 23 seats.

"Our party president had given us a target of 23 seats, but if the elections are held in a fair manner, we are in a position to win at least 26 seats," Ghosh told PTI.

The state unit has already categorized the seats as 'A plus', 'A', 'B'and 'C' as per their prospects, according to another senior leader of the party.

"The classification of the constituencies into four categories was done on the basis of five criteria - BJP's organisational strength, the demographic situation (number of Muslims, Hindu and Hindu refugee population), its organisational weakness, the geographical location and the potential of the candidate," he said.

The party has kept Darjeeling and Asansol seats out of the survey's purview as it is confident of retaining them.

Of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state, the Trinamool Congress bagged 34 seats in 2014, the Congress secured four seats, while CPI(M) and the BJP won two seats each.

"We have identified 18-20 seats in north and south Bengal, where our chances of winning is as high as 70-80%. This study was done keeping in mind our performance in those seats in the last few elections," the BJP leader added.

However, despite all its efforts, the BJP is still scouting for answers over its "inability" to constitute booth committees at all polling stations in the state.

Shah, during its visit to Bengal in September 2017, had sought booth committee formation at 77,000 polling stations in the state, but the party has been able to achieve only 75 percent of the target so far.

"We have not been able to reach out to all the booths, especially the ones in minority-dominated areas. We have a support base, but no one is ready to man the booth committees fearing backlash by the Trinamool Congress. We hope things will change in the days to come," Ghosh said.&nbsp;

Amid factionalism and hurdles in its mass outreach programme, the West Bengal unit of the BJP, which has set a target of winning over 23 of 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state, is carrying out a survey to assess the winnability of its candidates.

Amid factionalism and hurdles in its mass outreach programme, the West Bengal unit of the BJP, which has set a target of winning over 23 of 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state, is carrying out a survey to assess the winnability of its candidates. With more than 60-70 aspirants throwing their hats into the ring for one seat, especially in the northern and southern part of the state, the party is grappling with internal dissent over ticket distribution. Several factions, including the ones led by leaders who switched to the BJP from the TMC, are staking claims to the same seat, forcing the state unit to seek an assessment of its candidates to meet its 23-seat target, set by the saffron party's national president Amit Shah. "It is unprecedented that we have been receiving such a huge number of applications for some seats. Ten years back, we used to have a tough time convincing people to contest on our ticket," a BJP state unit leader said, adding that a section of leaders has appealed to the central leadership to ensure that old timers don't feel sidelined. The state unit, in consultation with the central leaders, has roped in an external agency to assess its prospects in the Lok Sabha constituencies, he said. BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya told PTI that a candidate list will be prepared based on inputs by the external agency and the party's senior leaders. "We have launched both external and internal surveys to assess the winnability of seats and candidates. The survey will cover aspects such as a candidate's potential in winning a seat and his popularity. Based on inputs from the internal survey and the external agency, we will prepare our list," he said. Asked about internal dissent, Vijayvargiya said the BJP is a disciplined party and once the names of candidates are announced, every member will work to ensure their victory in the elections. According to sources within the party, the state unit will send names of at least three candidates for every Lok Sabha seat to the central unit, which would then take a final call on the matter. BJP state president Dilip Ghosh claimed that the party is putting in equal efforts in all constituencies, notwithstanding its target of winning at least 23 seats. "Our party president had given us a target of 23 seats, but if the elections are held in a fair manner, we are in a position to win at least 26 seats," Ghosh told PTI. The state unit has already categorized the seats as 'A plus', 'A', 'B'and 'C' as per their prospects, according to another senior leader of the party. "The classification of the constituencies into four categories was done on the basis of five criteria - BJP's organisational strength, the demographic situation (number of Muslims, Hindu and Hindu refugee population), its organisational weakness, the geographical location and the potential of the candidate," he said. The party has kept Darjeeling and Asansol seats out of the survey's purview as it is confident of retaining them. Of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state, the Trinamool Congress bagged 34 seats in 2014, the Congress secured four seats, while CPI(M) and the BJP won two seats each. "We have identified 18-20 seats in north and south Bengal, where our chances of winning is as high as 70-80%. This study was done keeping in mind our performance in those seats in the last few elections," the BJP leader added. However, despite all its efforts, the BJP is still scouting for answers over its "inability" to constitute booth committees at all polling stations in the state. Shah, during its visit to Bengal in September 2017, had sought booth committee formation at 77,000 polling stations in the state, but the party has been able to achieve only 75 percent of the target so far. "We have not been able to reach out to all the booths, especially the ones in minority-dominated areas. We have a support base, but no one is ready to man the booth committees fearing backlash by the Trinamool Congress. We hope things will change in the days to come," Ghosh said.

West Bengal: BJP launches survey to assess winnability of candidates ahead of Lok Sabha

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Tuesday hailed the Indian Air Force (IAF) for carrying out air strikes in Pakistan.

"IAF also means India's Amazing Fighters. Jai Hind," Banerjee tweeted. India carried out air strikes inside Pakistan early Tuesday and targeted terror camps, official sources said.

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IAF also means India's Amazing Fighters. Jai Hind
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Several fighter jets of the Indian Air Force successfully destroyed camps belonging to Pakistan-based terror outfits in Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, they said.&nbsp;

The IAF strike was carried out by a group of Mirage 2000 fighters at around 3.30 am.

The strike in Balakot was significant as the location was beyond Pakistan-administered Kashmir, indicating it was not merely an LoC violation but a punitive action inside Pakistani territory.

It follows a suicide bombing attack on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy in Pulwama on February 14 that killed 40 troopers.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Tuesday hailed the Indian Air Force (IAF) for carrying out air strikes in Pakistan. "IAF also means India's Amazing Fighters.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Tuesday hailed the Indian Air Force (IAF) for carrying out air strikes in Pakistan. "IAF also means India's Amazing Fighters. Jai Hind," Banerjee tweeted. India carried out air strikes inside Pakistan early Tuesday and targeted terror camps, official sources said. IAF also means India's Amazing Fighters. Jai Hind — Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) February 26, 2019 × Several fighter jets of the Indian Air Force successfully destroyed camps belonging to Pakistan-based terror outfits in Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, they said. The IAF strike was carried out by a group of Mirage 2000 fighters at around 3.30 am. The strike in Balakot was significant as the location was beyond Pakistan-administered Kashmir, indicating it was not merely an LoC violation but a punitive action inside Pakistani territory. It follows a suicide bombing attack on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy in Pulwama on February 14 that killed 40 troopers.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee hails IAF for air strikes on Pakistan

Film buffs and youth activists on Sunday joined a sit-in protest in Kolkata after director Anik Dutta`s film 'Bhobishyoter Bhoot' (Ghost of the Future) was withdrawn from almost all multiplexes and single screen theatres in West Bengal.

Not just fans, but several people from the Bengali film industry voiced their opposition to the move. Thespian Soumitra Chatterjee shot off a letter, calling the withdrawl of the film as `vindictive` and `undemocratic`, and a "fascist policy".

The film, a social and political satire that released to packed houses on Friday, was apparently taken off by the hall owners following "instructions from higher authorities", Dutta said.

"Still, I haven`t got any official communication` regarding the cancellation, all they (hall owners) said was that the instructions were from higher authorities. But I have received immense support and the film fraternity has shown great solidarity," said the director of the 2012 block buster 'Bhooter Bhobishyot' (Future of Ghosts).

The sit-in was organised by fans and Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) activists outside Star Theatre, one of the oldest commercial Bengali theatre.

Dutta read out the letter sent by the veteran actor during the protest. Expressing shock, Chatterjee said it was a `vindictive act` of the administration. He referred to the comment made by the director during the 24th Kolkata International Film Festival last November.

Dutta had then criticised the `excessive` use of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee`s posters in and around the film fest venues and argued that the film personalities should get more limelight during such events.

Chatterjee wondered if there will be `any platform in the country where people can express themselves freely` and whether film makers will be able to include any content with which the authorities do not agree.

"I strongly condemn such fascist policy even if they stay undercover," he wrote.

In his letter, Chatterjee hoped that all those responsible for taking off the film from the cinemas `will realise that it is an undemocratic act` and `protest against it`.

Other prominent film personalities from the Bengal film industry including director Srijit Mukherjee, actors Abir Chatterjee, Parambrata Chatterjee and others took to social media to speak in support of the director.&nbsp;

A release from the film`s production company said prior to its release, the State Intelligence Unit wrote to the producer Kalyanmoy Chatterjee seeking a private screening `on a priority basis`.

They asked for the screening in the light of information received that it may `hurt public sentiments which may lead to political law and order issues`.&nbsp; 
The producer had immediately replied that the film has been passed by the CBFC and asking for private screening was beyond the jurisdiction and legal competence of the police.

The team of 'Bhobishyoter Bhoot' got no further response till the film the released, the makers have claimed.&nbsp;

(With agency inputs) 
&nbsp;

Film buffs and youth activists on Sunday joined a sit-in protest in Kolkata after director Anik Dutta`s film 'Bhobishyoter Bhoot' (Ghost of the Future) was withdrawn from almost all multiplexes and single screen theatres in West Bengal.

Film buffs and youth activists on Sunday joined a sit-in protest in Kolkata after director Anik Dutta`s film 'Bhobishyoter Bhoot' (Ghost of the Future) was withdrawn from almost all multiplexes and single screen theatres in West Bengal. Not just fans, but several people from the Bengali film industry voiced their opposition to the move. Thespian Soumitra Chatterjee shot off a letter, calling the withdrawl of the film as `vindictive` and `undemocratic`, and a "fascist policy". The film, a social and political satire that released to packed houses on Friday, was apparently taken off by the hall owners following "instructions from higher authorities", Dutta said. "Still, I haven`t got any official communication` regarding the cancellation, all they (hall owners) said was that the instructions were from higher authorities. But I have received immense support and the film fraternity has shown great solidarity," said the director of the 2012 block buster 'Bhooter Bhobishyot' (Future of Ghosts). The sit-in was organised by fans and Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) activists outside Star Theatre, one of the oldest commercial Bengali theatre. Dutta read out the letter sent by the veteran actor during the protest. Expressing shock, Chatterjee said it was a `vindictive act` of the administration. He referred to the comment made by the director during the 24th Kolkata International Film Festival last November. Dutta had then criticised the `excessive` use of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee`s posters in and around the film fest venues and argued that the film personalities should get more limelight during such events. Chatterjee wondered if there will be `any platform in the country where people can express themselves freely` and whether film makers will be able to include any content with which the authorities do not agree. "I strongly condemn such fascist policy even if they stay undercover," he wrote. In his letter, Chatterjee hoped that all those responsible for taking off the film from the cinemas `will realise that it is an undemocratic act` and `protest against it`. Other prominent film personalities from the Bengal film industry including director Srijit Mukherjee, actors Abir Chatterjee, Parambrata Chatterjee and others took to social media to speak in support of the director. A release from the film`s production company said prior to its release, the State Intelligence Unit wrote to the producer Kalyanmoy Chatterjee seeking a private screening `on a priority basis`. They asked for the screening in the light of information received that it may `hurt public sentiments which may lead to political law and order issues`. The producer had immediately replied that the film has been passed by the CBFC and asking for private screening was beyond the jurisdiction and legal competence of the police. The team of 'Bhobishyoter Bhoot' got no further response till the film the released, the makers have claimed. (With agency inputs)

Satirical film withdrawn from theatres in Bengal, actor Soumitra Chatterjee joins fans in protest

Chit fund scams in West Bengal echoed in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, with Left and Congress members accusing the Trinamool Congress of looting money of investors.&nbsp;

Members from the Trinamool Congress, which is in power in West Bengal, were protesting in the Well when the discussion on ‘The Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Bill, 2018’ was taken up.&nbsp;

Participating in the discussion, Congress member Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said the Trinamool Congress, which is in power in West Bengal, looted the people of the state.&nbsp;

He also said that lakhs of people were looted and that their money should be returned.

CPI-M member Mohammed Salim alleged that TMC has come up due to corruption and even remarked that some members of the party in the House should go to jail.&nbsp;

On both occasions, members from the BJP, which is engaged in a political slugfest with the TMC over Saradha scam and other issues, were seen thumping their desks.&nbsp;

Later, TMC members were seen shouting slogans against Salim. Some members of the TMC are under the lens for their alleged role in chit fund scams.

TMC leader Saugata Roy said chief minister Mamata Banerjee took the trouble of getting arrested the main person in Saradha scam and wanted to know from the central government as what they were doing in the last five years with respect to the scam.&nbsp;

BJD leader B Mahtab said there should be a regulatory mechanism for the state and central governments to work against illegal deposit-taking activities.&nbsp;

While replying to the discussion, Finance Minister Piyush Goyal wondered what message would the school children sitting here take back amid continued slogan shouting by TMC members in the Well. School children were among those sitting in the visitor’s gallery.

Chit fund scams in West Bengal echoed in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, with Left and Congress members accusing the Trinamool Congress of looting money of investors.

Chit fund scams in West Bengal echoed in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, with Left and Congress members accusing the Trinamool Congress of looting money of investors. Members from the Trinamool Congress, which is in power in West Bengal, were protesting in the Well when the discussion on ‘The Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Bill, 2018’ was taken up. Participating in the discussion, Congress member Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said the Trinamool Congress, which is in power in West Bengal, looted the people of the state. He also said that lakhs of people were looted and that their money should be returned. CPI-M member Mohammed Salim alleged that TMC has come up due to corruption and even remarked that some members of the party in the House should go to jail. On both occasions, members from the BJP, which is engaged in a political slugfest with the TMC over Saradha scam and other issues, were seen thumping their desks. Later, TMC members were seen shouting slogans against Salim. Some members of the TMC are under the lens for their alleged role in chit fund scams. TMC leader Saugata Roy said chief minister Mamata Banerjee took the trouble of getting arrested the main person in Saradha scam and wanted to know from the central government as what they were doing in the last five years with respect to the scam. BJD leader B Mahtab said there should be a regulatory mechanism for the state and central governments to work against illegal deposit-taking activities. While replying to the discussion, Finance Minister Piyush Goyal wondered what message would the school children sitting here take back amid continued slogan shouting by TMC members in the Well. School children were among those sitting in the visitor’s gallery.

West Bengal’s chit fund scams expose fault lines in Grand Alliance, Congress, Left spar with TMC in Parliament

Mamata takes her pen this time to fight for democracy that's what her admirers are saying as today she penned down a poem whose essence is Key to democracy.

The name of the poem is "Key".

Her 18 lines poem stresses on the need to uphold democracy in today's perspective.&nbsp;

She questions how present regime as locked everyone's lips and how this system is embarrassing democracy.&nbsp;

She also stresses that this attitude of axing democracy will get blow one day.

Mamata the firebrand opposition leader and Chief Minister of Bengal has written more than 80 books. She also writes a song.&nbsp;

Party insiders state that ' Didis writing inspires us to move ahead.'

Interestingly this poem of Mamata is penned down just before Mamata starts for Delhi for opposition s dharna.

This is the first time when uploaded her handwritten poem on Twitter and her poem in social media is a big hit.&nbsp;

Her target is Modi everywhere from Poems to slogan Mamata wants to hit out Modi from every aspect.

Mamata takes her pen this time to fight for democracy that's what her admirers are saying as today she penned down a poem whose essence is Key to democracy. The name of the poem is "Key".

Mamata takes her pen this time to fight for democracy that's what her admirers are saying as today she penned down a poem whose essence is Key to democracy. The name of the poem is "Key". Her 18 lines poem stresses on the need to uphold democracy in today's perspective. She questions how present regime as locked everyone's lips and how this system is embarrassing democracy. She also stresses that this attitude of axing democracy will get blow one day. Mamata the firebrand opposition leader and Chief Minister of Bengal has written more than 80 books. She also writes a song. Party insiders state that ' Didis writing inspires us to move ahead.' Interestingly this poem of Mamata is penned down just before Mamata starts for Delhi for opposition s dharna. This is the first time when uploaded her handwritten poem on Twitter and her poem in social media is a big hit. Her target is Modi everywhere from Poems to slogan Mamata wants to hit out Modi from every aspect.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee writes poem 'Key' to democracy

Startling details have emerged from the CBI questioning of Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar on Saturday late afternoon. Insiders reveal that Kumar insisted the session to be recorded right at the beginning of the questioning leaving no scope for the agency to allege non-cooperation on his part.&nbsp;

“He had always been cooperating with the agency. He insisted that the agency record the session so that no allegations surface against him that he did not cooperate. The agency had agreed to his request and the entire 8-hour session was video recorded,” said an officer close to him,” said an officer close to him.&nbsp;

The CBI had claimed in the apex court that he allegedly tampered crucial evidence in the Rose Valley and Saradha chit fund scam. In line with the order, the apex court had asked him to ‘cooperate’ with the CBI officers.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-grills-kolkata-police-chief-rajeev-kumar-for-nearly-8-hours-agency-to-question-him-again-tomorrow-196273">Kumar was grilled for almost eight hours by CBI sleuths on Saturday</a> at CBI’s Shillong unit in connection with the Rose Valley and the Saradha chit fund scams.

Sources in the CBI reveal that he has been asked to appear before the agency for questioning again on Sunday to get more details on the investigation that was carried out by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), headed by Kumar.&nbsp;

Kumar was questioned by a special team of 10 officers constituted by the CBI. Sources in the agency reveal that a 22-page questionnaire was prepared by the agency to question him. In line with the Supreme Court order, Kumar was asked to appear before the CBI at Shillong – a mutually accepted location by both Kumar and the CBI.

Ex-TMC MP Kunal Ghosh will also be questioned by the CBI officers in Shillong tomorrow in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam. "Ghosh has, on several occasions, claimed that Kumar had tried to influence the investigation. We may make Ghosh and Kumar sit face to face for questioning tomorrow," said a CBI officer on the condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

Kolkata Police commissioner arrived in the capital city of Meghalaya on Friday along with his lawyer Biswajit Deb and two other IPS officers – deputy commissioner of Kolkata Police (Special Task Force) Murlidhar Sharma and Additional and Joint Commissioner of Kolkata Police (HQ) Jawed Shamim.

He stayed at a heritage hotel in Shillong, reached Shillong CBI located at Oakland at 11 am and left the office at around 7.15 pm.

On the other hand, a team of CBI officials started arriving in Shillong from Friday. A team led by a DIG rank officer, Vivek Dutt, additional SP and Deputy SP rank officers questioned Kumar.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday directed Kumar to appear before the CBI in Shillong in connection with the two scams. However, the court had also said that the CBI cannot arrest Kumar.

Startling details have emerged from the CBI questioning of Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar on Saturday late afternoon. Insiders reveal that Kumar insisted the session to be recorded right at the beginning of the questioning leaving no scope for the agency to allege non-cooperation on his part.

Startling details have emerged from the CBI questioning of Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar on Saturday late afternoon. Insiders reveal that Kumar insisted the session to be recorded right at the beginning of the questioning leaving no scope for the agency to allege non-cooperation on his part. “He had always been cooperating with the agency. He insisted that the agency record the session so that no allegations surface against him that he did not cooperate. The agency had agreed to his request and the entire 8-hour session was video recorded,” said an officer close to him,” said an officer close to him. The CBI had claimed in the apex court that he allegedly tampered crucial evidence in the Rose Valley and Saradha chit fund scam. In line with the order, the apex court had asked him to ‘cooperate’ with the CBI officers. Kumar was grilled for almost eight hours by CBI sleuths on Saturday at CBI’s Shillong unit in connection with the Rose Valley and the Saradha chit fund scams. Sources in the CBI reveal that he has been asked to appear before the agency for questioning again on Sunday to get more details on the investigation that was carried out by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), headed by Kumar. Kumar was questioned by a special team of 10 officers constituted by the CBI. Sources in the agency reveal that a 22-page questionnaire was prepared by the agency to question him. In line with the Supreme Court order, Kumar was asked to appear before the CBI at Shillong – a mutually accepted location by both Kumar and the CBI. Ex-TMC MP Kunal Ghosh will also be questioned by the CBI officers in Shillong tomorrow in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam. "Ghosh has, on several occasions, claimed that Kumar had tried to influence the investigation. We may make Ghosh and Kumar sit face to face for questioning tomorrow," said a CBI officer on the condition of anonymity. Kolkata Police commissioner arrived in the capital city of Meghalaya on Friday along with his lawyer Biswajit Deb and two other IPS officers – deputy commissioner of Kolkata Police (Special Task Force) Murlidhar Sharma and Additional and Joint Commissioner of Kolkata Police (HQ) Jawed Shamim. He stayed at a heritage hotel in Shillong, reached Shillong CBI located at Oakland at 11 am and left the office at around 7.15 pm. On the other hand, a team of CBI officials started arriving in Shillong from Friday. A team led by a DIG rank officer, Vivek Dutt, additional SP and Deputy SP rank officers questioned Kumar. The Supreme Court on Tuesday directed Kumar to appear before the CBI in Shillong in connection with the two scams. However, the court had also said that the CBI cannot arrest Kumar.

Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar insisted on video recording session with CBI officials on Saturday

Kolkata Police commissioner <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-to-question-kolkata-police-commissioner-rajeev-kumar-on-february-9-in-shillong-195887">Rajeev Kumar</a> was grilled for almost eight hours by CBI sleuths on Saturday at the CBI’s Shillong unit in connection with the Rose Valley and the Saradha chit fund scams.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/saradha-rose-valley-ponzi-schemes-cbi-team-shows-up-at-kolkata-police-commissioners-home-194871">Centre vs Bengal: CBI team shows up at Kolkata Police chief's home, accuses him of obstructing justice</a>

Sources in the CBI reveal that he has been asked to appear before the agency again for questioning tomorrow to get more details on the investigation that was carried out by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), headed by Kumar.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-may-take-back-kolkata-police-chiefs-medals-mha-sources-195827">Kumar</a> was questioned by a special team of 10 officers constituted by the CBI. Sources in the agency reveal that a 22-page questionnaire was prepared by the agency to question him. In line with the Supreme Court order, Kumar was asked to appear before the CBI at Shillong – a mutually accepted location by both Kumar and the CBI.

Ex-TMC MP Kunal Ghosh will also be questioned by the CBI officers in Shillong tomorrow in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam. "Ghosh has, on several occasions, claimed that Kumar had tried to influence the investigation. We may make Ghosh and Kumar sit face to face for questioning tomorrow," said a CBI officer on the condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-police-raid-firms-linked-to-ex-interim-cbi-chief-196108">Kolkata Police</a> commissioner arrived in the capital city of Meghalaya on Friday along with his lawyer Biswajit Deb and two other IPS officers – deputy commissioner of Kolkata Police (Special Task Force) Murlidhar Sharma and Additional and Joint Commissioner of Kolkata Police (HQ) Jawed Shamim.

He stayed at a heritage hotel in Shillong, reached Shillong CBI located at Oakland at 11 am and left the office at around 7.15 pm.

On the other hand, a team of CBI officials started arriving in Shillong from Friday. A team led by a DIG rank officer, Vivek Dutt, additional SP and Deputy SP rank officers questioned Kumar.

The CBI had issued an order dated February 6, 2019, asking 10 officers to join the Kolkata unit with an immediate effect and to be prepared to stay with the team till February 20, 2019.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday directed Kumar to appear before the CBI in Shillong in connection with the two scams. However, the court had also said that the CBI cannot arrest Kumar.

The CBI had alleged in the apex court that Kumar had tried to tamper the evidence while investigating the case when he was heading the SIT.

A political slugfest began after CBI officers had reached Kumar’s residence in Kolkata on Sunday. The CBI had claimed that they were prevented from meeting the commissioner and were forcibly taken to the Shakespeare Sarani police station by Kolkata Police and were later detained.&nbsp;

However, Kolkata Police had ruled out the allegations of detaining CBI officers. "This is unprecedented. We have never faced a situation of this sort before. We were prevented from doing our job," CBI DSP Tathagata Vardhan had said on Sunday outside the police station.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had immediately reached Kumar’s residence and announced that she will stage a ‘Satyagraha’ on the metro channel. The sit-in was staged for almost 40 hours before she finally decided to call it off after Supreme Court passed an order preventing the CBI from arresting Kumar.

Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar was grilled for almost eight hours by CBI sleuths on Saturday at the CBI’s Shillong unit in connection with the Rose Valley and the Saradha chit fund scams.

Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar was grilled for almost eight hours by CBI sleuths on Saturday at the CBI’s Shillong unit in connection with the Rose Valley and the Saradha chit fund scams. Also read: Centre vs Bengal: CBI team shows up at Kolkata Police chief's home, accuses him of obstructing justice Sources in the CBI reveal that he has been asked to appear before the agency again for questioning tomorrow to get more details on the investigation that was carried out by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), headed by Kumar. Kumar was questioned by a special team of 10 officers constituted by the CBI. Sources in the agency reveal that a 22-page questionnaire was prepared by the agency to question him. In line with the Supreme Court order, Kumar was asked to appear before the CBI at Shillong – a mutually accepted location by both Kumar and the CBI. Ex-TMC MP Kunal Ghosh will also be questioned by the CBI officers in Shillong tomorrow in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam. "Ghosh has, on several occasions, claimed that Kumar had tried to influence the investigation. We may make Ghosh and Kumar sit face to face for questioning tomorrow," said a CBI officer on the condition of anonymity. Kolkata Police commissioner arrived in the capital city of Meghalaya on Friday along with his lawyer Biswajit Deb and two other IPS officers – deputy commissioner of Kolkata Police (Special Task Force) Murlidhar Sharma and Additional and Joint Commissioner of Kolkata Police (HQ) Jawed Shamim. He stayed at a heritage hotel in Shillong, reached Shillong CBI located at Oakland at 11 am and left the office at around 7.15 pm. On the other hand, a team of CBI officials started arriving in Shillong from Friday. A team led by a DIG rank officer, Vivek Dutt, additional SP and Deputy SP rank officers questioned Kumar. The CBI had issued an order dated February 6, 2019, asking 10 officers to join the Kolkata unit with an immediate effect and to be prepared to stay with the team till February 20, 2019. The Supreme Court on Tuesday directed Kumar to appear before the CBI in Shillong in connection with the two scams. However, the court had also said that the CBI cannot arrest Kumar. The CBI had alleged in the apex court that Kumar had tried to tamper the evidence while investigating the case when he was heading the SIT. A political slugfest began after CBI officers had reached Kumar’s residence in Kolkata on Sunday. The CBI had claimed that they were prevented from meeting the commissioner and were forcibly taken to the Shakespeare Sarani police station by Kolkata Police and were later detained. However, Kolkata Police had ruled out the allegations of detaining CBI officers. "This is unprecedented. We have never faced a situation of this sort before. We were prevented from doing our job," CBI DSP Tathagata Vardhan had said on Sunday outside the police station. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had immediately reached Kumar’s residence and announced that she will stage a ‘Satyagraha’ on the metro channel. The sit-in was staged for almost 40 hours before she finally decided to call it off after Supreme Court passed an order preventing the CBI from arresting Kumar.

CBI grills Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar for nearly 8 hours; agency to question him again on Sunday

When the Supreme Court gave its order and Mamata Banerjee declared it a “moral victory”, I was at a tea shop nearby, close to the Metro Cinema.&nbsp;

The discussion there, as is so often the case in Kolkata, was that of politics. Is this really a moral victory for Mamata? Or did the CBI come out on top?

But after returning to Kolkata after a long while and at a time that politics is coursing through the city’s veins, I could not help but wonder about another question: Is this politics, the Chief Minister’s dharna to save democracy, good for Bengal and its people?

Mamata Banerjee stormed to power, catapulted largely by the Singur movement and the politics of bandhs, dharnas and dissent that she inherited from the Left.

But as a Chief Minister, she took a strong stance against such protests, and in September 2016, she reacted to a Left strike in Kolkata and considered passing a law against such bandhs. “It is not the right form of protest,” she had said.

But for Kolkata and Bengal, what is the right form of protest? This is, after all, the city that has seen the maximum number of bandhs since Independence. Former Bengal chief minister Ajoy Mukherjee of the Bangla Congress sat at Dharmatala in protest against his own government, particularly his home minister Jyoti Basu, in the 1960s.

The Left would then go on to convert organised political dissent into an art form, and by the early 2000s, the word ‘bandh’ found itself on the pages of the Oxford English Dictionary (Bandh: Indian, general strike).

It is not accidental that Mamata Banerjee chose Metro Channel for the site of her protest. Steeped with the mythology of ‘Didi’ and ‘Ma Maati Manush’, this is where she had fasted for 25 days to protest land acquisition in Singur in 2006.

I remember that protest. Rajnath Singh had come to show his solidarity. Even the governor, Gopal Krishna Gandhi, came to see the protest. Like then, I am still an onlooker of her politics. The difference is that 13 years have passed in between and the political scenario in both Bengal and the country have changed.

Can the rest of the country accept Mamata Banerjee’s brand of fiery politics? Such a confrontational and aggressive politics is liked, and perhaps even needed, in Bengal. It infuses the party cadre with adrenaline, motivates them and eventually benefits the party. But there are socio-economic reasons for it as well.

What the Oxford Dictionary doesn’t tell you, but many in the state will agree, is that there is a strong socio-economic basis for this: Protests and the politics of bandh are also a livelihood. I spoke to a man in Delhi, who had moved from Midnapore and was running a small taxi company. I asked him,“Tumi kon party koro?” This literally translates into “Which party do you do” — a possibly, more accurate representation of Bengal’s association with its politics.

He replied, “I work through the year and then I vote. The problem here is that there are no jobs, and when you don’t have work, you need the party to survive.”

There is no denying Mamata Banerjee’s success. There were others before her, but it was Banerjee’s relentless politics that dethroned the Left Front regime.

As Chief Minister, she is incredibly active and brings minute attention to detail that has often been missed. No chief minister has held as many meetings in different districts to oversee work being done.

Mamata’s instinctive politics has translated into a form of empathetic governance that has ensured that she continues to be the most popular leader in the state — by a mile.

What impact this protest will have on the 2019 Lok Sabha polls is yet to be seen. But she has managed to swing the spotlight onto her, and away from Rahul Gandhi.

Every non-BJP party has come out in support and allies have turned up in Kolkata to protest with her and her acceptability has increased nationwide.

But Bengal was to host its global business summit this week. With the protest still ongoing, the fate of the summit is anyone’s guess. This year, unlike earlier, there is no participation from the Union government and its ministers, and consequently, participation from the business community is also likely to be less.

Perhaps Mamata Banerjee feels that the dharna is more relevant than global business right now.

As far as moral victories are concerned, it is not important as to who has won between the CBI and Mamata. Banerjee converted this into a standoff over the federal structure, but the fact remains that dissent is important, as is protest — but it can only co-exist alongside debate, and that is what Bengal can’t afford to forget.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-the-politics-of-protest-2716559">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

&nbsp;

When the Supreme Court gave its order and Mamata Banerjee declared it a “moral victory”, I was at a tea shop nearby, close to the Metro Cinema. The discussion there, as is so often the case in Kolkata, was that of politics.

When the Supreme Court gave its order and Mamata Banerjee declared it a “moral victory”, I was at a tea shop nearby, close to the Metro Cinema. The discussion there, as is so often the case in Kolkata, was that of politics. Is this really a moral victory for Mamata? Or did the CBI come out on top? But after returning to Kolkata after a long while and at a time that politics is coursing through the city’s veins, I could not help but wonder about another question: Is this politics, the Chief Minister’s dharna to save democracy, good for Bengal and its people? Mamata Banerjee stormed to power, catapulted largely by the Singur movement and the politics of bandhs, dharnas and dissent that she inherited from the Left. But as a Chief Minister, she took a strong stance against such protests, and in September 2016, she reacted to a Left strike in Kolkata and considered passing a law against such bandhs. “It is not the right form of protest,” she had said. But for Kolkata and Bengal, what is the right form of protest? This is, after all, the city that has seen the maximum number of bandhs since Independence. Former Bengal chief minister Ajoy Mukherjee of the Bangla Congress sat at Dharmatala in protest against his own government, particularly his home minister Jyoti Basu, in the 1960s. The Left would then go on to convert organised political dissent into an art form, and by the early 2000s, the word ‘bandh’ found itself on the pages of the Oxford English Dictionary (Bandh: Indian, general strike). It is not accidental that Mamata Banerjee chose Metro Channel for the site of her protest. Steeped with the mythology of ‘Didi’ and ‘Ma Maati Manush’, this is where she had fasted for 25 days to protest land acquisition in Singur in 2006. I remember that protest. Rajnath Singh had come to show his solidarity. Even the governor, Gopal Krishna Gandhi, came to see the protest. Like then, I am still an onlooker of her politics. The difference is that 13 years have passed in between and the political scenario in both Bengal and the country have changed. Can the rest of the country accept Mamata Banerjee’s brand of fiery politics? Such a confrontational and aggressive politics is liked, and perhaps even needed, in Bengal. It infuses the party cadre with adrenaline, motivates them and eventually benefits the party. But there are socio-economic reasons for it as well. What the Oxford Dictionary doesn’t tell you, but many in the state will agree, is that there is a strong socio-economic basis for this: Protests and the politics of bandh are also a livelihood. I spoke to a man in Delhi, who had moved from Midnapore and was running a small taxi company. I asked him,“Tumi kon party koro?” This literally translates into “Which party do you do” — a possibly, more accurate representation of Bengal’s association with its politics. He replied, “I work through the year and then I vote. The problem here is that there are no jobs, and when you don’t have work, you need the party to survive.” There is no denying Mamata Banerjee’s success. There were others before her, but it was Banerjee’s relentless politics that dethroned the Left Front regime. As Chief Minister, she is incredibly active and brings minute attention to detail that has often been missed. No chief minister has held as many meetings in different districts to oversee work being done. Mamata’s instinctive politics has translated into a form of empathetic governance that has ensured that she continues to be the most popular leader in the state — by a mile. What impact this protest will have on the 2019 Lok Sabha polls is yet to be seen. But she has managed to swing the spotlight onto her, and away from Rahul Gandhi. Every non-BJP party has come out in support and allies have turned up in Kolkata to protest with her and her acceptability has increased nationwide. But Bengal was to host its global business summit this week. With the protest still ongoing, the fate of the summit is anyone’s guess. This year, unlike earlier, there is no participation from the Union government and its ministers, and consequently, participation from the business community is also likely to be less. Perhaps Mamata Banerjee feels that the dharna is more relevant than global business right now. As far as moral victories are concerned, it is not important as to who has won between the CBI and Mamata. Banerjee converted this into a standoff over the federal structure, but the fact remains that dissent is important, as is protest — but it can only co-exist alongside debate, and that is what Bengal can’t afford to forget. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The politics of protest: Is this really a moral victory for Mamata?

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/yogi-adityanath-addresses-rally-in-west-bengal-via-audio-link-after-his-chopper-was-denied-permission-194825">Yogi Adityanath</a> will be addressing a public in Purulia district of West Bengal on Tuesday.

Yogi Adityanath, who was denied permission by the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/defrauded-chit-fund-investors-say-betrayed-by-west-bengals-move-to-stop-cbi-195181">West Bengal government</a> to land his chopper in South Dinajpur district on Sunday, will this time take the road route to enter the state.

The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister is scheduled to fly to Jharkhand on Tuesday and from there he will travel to Purlia by road.

After being denied permission to land his chopper on Sunday, Adityanath addressed the "Gantantra Bachao" (Save Democracy) rally in South Dinjapur through a telephone call.

&nbsp;In his address that was broadcast using an audio link, the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister on Sunday slammed Mamata Banerjee and said her Trinamool Congress government in the state "can suppress people but cannot suppress their voices."

"Mamata ji must accept that one should not misuse the administration in a democracy. The manner in which the administration in West Bengal is functioning should not be acceptable at all," Yogi Adityanath said.

The public rally by Adityanath on Tuesday comes amid a full-blown face-off between West Bengal's Mamata Banerjee government and the Centre that erupted on Sunday after a CBI team moved to arrest West Bengal Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar, which in turn detained five officials causing a high voltage drama.

&nbsp;A team of five CBI officers, who went to arrest Rajeev Kumar at his residence in connection with Saradha chit fund scam, were not allowed to enter the police commissioner's house. The CBI officers were detained by police in Kolkata and were later released.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee extended her support to Rajeev Kumar and started a sit-in protest, in what her Trinamool Congress party called a "coup" by the Modi government.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will be addressing a public in Purulia district of West Bengal on Tuesday. Yogi Adityanath, who was denied permission by the West Bengal government to land his chopper in South Dinajpur district on Sunday, will this time take the road route to enter the state.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will be addressing a public in Purulia district of West Bengal on Tuesday. Yogi Adityanath, who was denied permission by the West Bengal government to land his chopper in South Dinajpur district on Sunday, will this time take the road route to enter the state. The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister is scheduled to fly to Jharkhand on Tuesday and from there he will travel to Purlia by road. After being denied permission to land his chopper on Sunday, Adityanath addressed the "Gantantra Bachao" (Save Democracy) rally in South Dinjapur through a telephone call. In his address that was broadcast using an audio link, the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister on Sunday slammed Mamata Banerjee and said her Trinamool Congress government in the state "can suppress people but cannot suppress their voices." "Mamata ji must accept that one should not misuse the administration in a democracy. The manner in which the administration in West Bengal is functioning should not be acceptable at all," Yogi Adityanath said. The public rally by Adityanath on Tuesday comes amid a full-blown face-off between West Bengal's Mamata Banerjee government and the Centre that erupted on Sunday after a CBI team moved to arrest West Bengal Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar, which in turn detained five officials causing a high voltage drama. A team of five CBI officers, who went to arrest Rajeev Kumar at his residence in connection with Saradha chit fund scam, were not allowed to enter the police commissioner's house. The CBI officers were detained by police in Kolkata and were later released. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee extended her support to Rajeev Kumar and started a sit-in protest, in what her Trinamool Congress party called a "coup" by the Modi government.

Denied permission earlier, Yogi Adityanath to address rally in West Bengal amid Mamata-CBI face-off

CBI told the Supreme Court Tuesday that its probe into the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/know-all-about-saradha-rose-valley-scams-and-kolkata-police-chief-rajeev-kumars-connection-195288">Saradha scam</a> led to the arrest of "people found close to or connected" to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal.

The submission was made by Attorney General K K Venugopal before a bench, comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjeev Khanna, which was hearing the CBI plea seeking direction against the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-turns-street-fighter-for-cop-she-once-refused-to-trust-195343">Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar</a> who has avoided to join the investigation.

Venugopal narrated the legal proceedings since 2014 and said all cases relating to the Chit Fund scam in West Bengal were transferred to the CBI.

"Before that, the state had itself has appointed a SIT. Between April 2014 and when the judgement was pronounced in 2017, we have collected material and proceeded to make arrests. Some of them were People found close to or connected to the TMC, the ruling party," he told the bench.

He said CBI issued summons to Kumar, who was the functional head of the SIT as the material handed to the agency was not complete.

"So we sent summons and then three notices. When he failed to respond, we wrote to the DGP who is the head of the SIT", the top law officer submitted.

Making a submission on the alleged destruction of evidence and other apprehensions, the attorney general said: "We had serious doubts as to the documentation handed over to us."

He referred to the case of Sudipto Sen, who owned the entire chit fund, saying he was arrested in a place in Jammu and Kashmir.

A laptop and four-five mobile phones that contained data were recovered from him but without retaining any part of the data or sending it to the Forensic Science Laboratory to identify and transplant it, the phone was handed back to him, Venugopal said.

"This was a very serious thing. The call data records were shared with us but were not complete. We found discrepancies in the number of calls, which were drastically less.

The details of from whom to whom the calls were made were also deleted. There were four other incidents. We could only take over the FIRs already registered like, in Rose Valley, where the highest revenue was raised and the most cheating had taken place to the tune of 15,000 crores," the attorney general said.

The Saradha and Rose Valley scams had hogged the limelight in West Bengal and other eastern states in 2013.

Since the scam involved investigation into other states, the apex court had transferred the probe to the CBI.&nbsp;

CBI told the Supreme Court Tuesday that its probe into the Saradha scam led to the arrest of "people found close to or connected" to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal.

CBI told the Supreme Court Tuesday that its probe into the Saradha scam led to the arrest of "people found close to or connected" to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal. The submission was made by Attorney General K K Venugopal before a bench, comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjeev Khanna, which was hearing the CBI plea seeking direction against the Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar who has avoided to join the investigation. Venugopal narrated the legal proceedings since 2014 and said all cases relating to the Chit Fund scam in West Bengal were transferred to the CBI. "Before that, the state had itself has appointed a SIT. Between April 2014 and when the judgement was pronounced in 2017, we have collected material and proceeded to make arrests. Some of them were People found close to or connected to the TMC, the ruling party," he told the bench. He said CBI issued summons to Kumar, who was the functional head of the SIT as the material handed to the agency was not complete. "So we sent summons and then three notices. When he failed to respond, we wrote to the DGP who is the head of the SIT", the top law officer submitted. Making a submission on the alleged destruction of evidence and other apprehensions, the attorney general said: "We had serious doubts as to the documentation handed over to us." He referred to the case of Sudipto Sen, who owned the entire chit fund, saying he was arrested in a place in Jammu and Kashmir. A laptop and four-five mobile phones that contained data were recovered from him but without retaining any part of the data or sending it to the Forensic Science Laboratory to identify and transplant it, the phone was handed back to him, Venugopal said. "This was a very serious thing. The call data records were shared with us but were not complete. We found discrepancies in the number of calls, which were drastically less. The details of from whom to whom the calls were made were also deleted. There were four other incidents. We could only take over the FIRs already registered like, in Rose Valley, where the highest revenue was raised and the most cheating had taken place to the tune of 15,000 crores," the attorney general said. The Saradha and Rose Valley scams had hogged the limelight in West Bengal and other eastern states in 2013. Since the scam involved investigation into other states, the apex court had transferred the probe to the CBI.

CBI probe into Saradha scam led to people close to TMC, Attorney General tells Supreme Court 

The defrauded investors and agents of various chit fund companies on Monday said they feel "betrayed" by the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/dharna-will-continue-till-friday-mamata-banerjee-195162">West Bengal government</a>'s move to stop<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-vs-bengal-ready-to-give-my-life-but-not-compromise-says-mamata-cbi-files-contempt-plea-in-sc-195124"> CBI officers</a> from interrogating the Kolkata Police commissioner and accused the Trinamool Congress dispensation of trying to hide the truth behind the multi-crore scam.

Asim Chatterjee, convenor of the Chit Fund Sufferers Forum, told news agency PTI that the ongoing tussle between the state government and the Centre over CBI's attempt to question Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar is not only condemnable but also an attempt to hide the truth.

Another Forum convenor, Jayanta Haldar, said the outfit would soon organise a rally of defrauded investors of the chit fund companies in the city.

"We will demand that all the culprits are arrested and the money be returned to the duped investors," he added.

"I was both an agent and an investor of a chit fund company. I was duped of about Rs. 30 lakh. Now when the CBI is trying to find the truth behind the scam the state government is trying to stop it," said Bisu, a defrauded investor.

"We feel betrayed," he said and wondered why was the state government so desperate to stop the questioning of the top police officer.

Another defrauded investor Ujjal said he had lost Rs. 25 lakh to both Saradha and Rose Valley chit fund companies.

"We invested in the chit fund companies after we saw the owners hobnobbing with top Trinamool Congress leaders and ministers. It made us trust these firms," he said.

"The state government did nothing else but shielded the culprits. Now when the CBI is trying to unravel the truth, why is the state government creating hurdles?" he asked.

However, Trinamool Congress has time and again said that it is their government which has arrested the chit fund owners.

"Our government arrested chit fund owners when we came to power. It is we who formed a SIT to probe the matter," Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had said on Sunday in a hurriedly-called press conference outside Rajeev Kumar's residence.

An all-out war broke out between the Centre and the state government on Sunday, with the feisty West Bengal chief minister beginning a sit-in protest at a city landmark over CBI's attempt to question the Kolkata Police chief in connection with the chit fund scam. She said it stifled the spirit of "Constitution and federalism".

A furious Banerjee began a sit-in at the Metro channel in Esplanade area in the heart of the city to protest against "insults" she faced at the hands of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah, hours after a CBI team that had gone to question Rajeev Kumar was detained in a face-off between the police establishments of the Centre and the state.

The Saradha chit fund scam is said to have mopped up Rs. 4,000 crore, while the Rose Valley scam is said to have mopped up Rs. 15,000 crore from lakhs of gullible investors.&nbsp;

There were several other chit fund companies as well and the scam is said to have affected over 2.5 million small investors in the state.

The defrauded investors and agents of various chit fund companies on Monday said they feel "betrayed" by the West Bengal government's move to stop CBI officers from interrogating the Kolkata Police commissioner and accused the Trinamool Congress dispensation of trying to hide the truth behind the multi-crore scam.

The defrauded investors and agents of various chit fund companies on Monday said they feel "betrayed" by the West Bengal government's move to stop CBI officers from interrogating the Kolkata Police commissioner and accused the Trinamool Congress dispensation of trying to hide the truth behind the multi-crore scam. Asim Chatterjee, convenor of the Chit Fund Sufferers Forum, told news agency PTI that the ongoing tussle between the state government and the Centre over CBI's attempt to question Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar is not only condemnable but also an attempt to hide the truth. Another Forum convenor, Jayanta Haldar, said the outfit would soon organise a rally of defrauded investors of the chit fund companies in the city. "We will demand that all the culprits are arrested and the money be returned to the duped investors," he added. "I was both an agent and an investor of a chit fund company. I was duped of about Rs. 30 lakh. Now when the CBI is trying to find the truth behind the scam the state government is trying to stop it," said Bisu, a defrauded investor. "We feel betrayed," he said and wondered why was the state government so desperate to stop the questioning of the top police officer. Another defrauded investor Ujjal said he had lost Rs. 25 lakh to both Saradha and Rose Valley chit fund companies. "We invested in the chit fund companies after we saw the owners hobnobbing with top Trinamool Congress leaders and ministers. It made us trust these firms," he said. "The state government did nothing else but shielded the culprits. Now when the CBI is trying to unravel the truth, why is the state government creating hurdles?" he asked. However, Trinamool Congress has time and again said that it is their government which has arrested the chit fund owners. "Our government arrested chit fund owners when we came to power. It is we who formed a SIT to probe the matter," Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had said on Sunday in a hurriedly-called press conference outside Rajeev Kumar's residence. An all-out war broke out between the Centre and the state government on Sunday, with the feisty West Bengal chief minister beginning a sit-in protest at a city landmark over CBI's attempt to question the Kolkata Police chief in connection with the chit fund scam. She said it stifled the spirit of "Constitution and federalism". A furious Banerjee began a sit-in at the Metro channel in Esplanade area in the heart of the city to protest against "insults" she faced at the hands of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah, hours after a CBI team that had gone to question Rajeev Kumar was detained in a face-off between the police establishments of the Centre and the state. The Saradha chit fund scam is said to have mopped up Rs. 4,000 crore, while the Rose Valley scam is said to have mopped up Rs. 15,000 crore from lakhs of gullible investors. There were several other chit fund companies as well and the scam is said to have affected over 2.5 million small investors in the state.

Defrauded chit fund investors say 'betrayed' by West Bengal's move to stop CBI

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath managed to reach Purulia, West Bengal from Bokaro, Jharkhand by road today after being <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/denied-permission-earlier-yogi-adityanath-to-address-rally-in-west-bengal-amid-mamata-cbi-face-off-195193">denied permission to enter the state via a helicopter</a>.

Adityanath was on Tuesday denied permission yet again to land his chopper in West Bengal and decided to take the road route to enter the state. He was previously denied permission by the West Bengal government to land his chopper in South Dinajpur district on Sunday.&nbsp;

Shortly after reaching Purulia, the Uttar Pradesh CM addressed a rally wherein he slammed his Bengal counterpart for staging a sit-in and "protecting a corrupt officer".

"Nothing can be more shameful for a democracy than a Chief Minister sitting on a dharna," he stated.&nbsp;

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Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Purulia, West Bengal: Nothing can be more shameful for a democracy than a Chief Minister sitting on a dharna. <a href="https://t.co/5HKFsKDbmx">pic.twitter.com/5HKFsKDbmx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1092745360030629890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier in the day, he stated that the Mamata Banerjee-government "is embroiled in undemocratic and unconstitutional activities and that is the reason why a 'sanyasi' and 'yogi' like me is not being allowed to step on the soil of Bengal."

The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister flew to Jharkhand on today&nbsp;and travelled to Purulia by road.

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UP CM Yogi Adityanath on his way to Purulia, WB from Bokaro, Jharkhand: This (West Bengal) government is embroiled in undemocratic and unconstitutional activities and that is the reason why a 'sanyasi' and 'yogi' like me is not being allowed to step on the soil of Bengal. <a href="https://t.co/pgS64tqz2T">pic.twitter.com/pgS64tqz2T</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1092740294368346113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Mamata ji must accept that one should not misuse the administration in a democracy. The manner in which the administration in West Bengal is functioning should not be acceptable at all," Adityanath said.

Meanwhile, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday stated that her government had "got into an agreement with a helicopter company".&nbsp;

"We had done an advance booking, an agreement was signed on Jan 15," she said. &nbsp;

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West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee: I won't take names, we had got into an agreement with a helicopter company. We had done advance booking, agreement was signed on Jan 15. It is sad that they informed us on Feb 1 that they will not provide us the helicopters, they backed out. <a href="https://t.co/ihhcbMcper">pic.twitter.com/ihhcbMcper</a>
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"It is sad that they informed us on Feb 1 that they will not provide us the helicopters, they backed out," Banerjee noted.&nbsp;

The public rally by Adityanath on Tuesday comes amid a full-blown face-off between West Bengal's Mamata Banerjee government and the Centre that erupted on Sunday after a CBI team moved to arrest West Bengal Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar, which in turn detained five officials causing a high voltage drama.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath managed to reach Purulia, West Bengal from Bokaro, Jharkhand by road today after being denied permission to enter the state via a helicopter.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath managed to reach Purulia, West Bengal from Bokaro, Jharkhand by road today after being denied permission to enter the state via a helicopter. Adityanath was on Tuesday denied permission yet again to land his chopper in West Bengal and decided to take the road route to enter the state. He was previously denied permission by the West Bengal government to land his chopper in South Dinajpur district on Sunday. Shortly after reaching Purulia, the Uttar Pradesh CM addressed a rally wherein he slammed his Bengal counterpart for staging a sit-in and "protecting a corrupt officer". "Nothing can be more shameful for a democracy than a Chief Minister sitting on a dharna," he stated. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Purulia, West Bengal: Nothing can be more shameful for a democracy than a Chief Minister sitting on a dharna. pic.twitter.com/5HKFsKDbmx — ANI (@ANI) February 5, 2019 × Earlier in the day, he stated that the Mamata Banerjee-government "is embroiled in undemocratic and unconstitutional activities and that is the reason why a 'sanyasi' and 'yogi' like me is not being allowed to step on the soil of Bengal." The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister flew to Jharkhand on today and travelled to Purulia by road. UP CM Yogi Adityanath on his way to Purulia, WB from Bokaro, Jharkhand: This (West Bengal) government is embroiled in undemocratic and unconstitutional activities and that is the reason why a 'sanyasi' and 'yogi' like me is not being allowed to step on the soil of Bengal. pic.twitter.com/pgS64tqz2T — ANI (@ANI) February 5, 2019 × "Mamata ji must accept that one should not misuse the administration in a democracy. The manner in which the administration in West Bengal is functioning should not be acceptable at all," Adityanath said. Meanwhile, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday stated that her government had "got into an agreement with a helicopter company". "We had done an advance booking, an agreement was signed on Jan 15," she said. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee: I won't take names, we had got into an agreement with a helicopter company. We had done advance booking, agreement was signed on Jan 15. It is sad that they informed us on Feb 1 that they will not provide us the helicopters, they backed out. pic.twitter.com/ihhcbMcper — ANI (@ANI) February 5, 2019 × "It is sad that they informed us on Feb 1 that they will not provide us the helicopters, they backed out," Banerjee noted. The public rally by Adityanath on Tuesday comes amid a full-blown face-off between West Bengal's Mamata Banerjee government and the Centre that erupted on Sunday after a CBI team moved to arrest West Bengal Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar, which in turn detained five officials causing a high voltage drama.

Nothing more shameful than a CM sitting on dharna: Yogi Adityanath in Bengal

The Calcutta High Court Tuesday adjourned hearing on the West Bengal government's plea against the CBI's attempt to enter Kolkata police chief Rajeev Kumar's residence to question him in connection with the multi-crore chit fund scam cases.

The state government had on Monday pleaded for an immediate hearing on the incident from the day before when CBI sleuths appeared outside the police commissioner's official residence unannounced.&nbsp;

The high court had declined their plea said that it will take it up on Tuesday.

Appearing before Justice Shivakant Prasad at the beginning of the proceedings Tuesday morning, State Advocate General Kishore Dutta prayed for adjournment of the matter since the Supreme Court was already seized of the issue.

On the state government's prayer, Justice Prasad adjourned hearing in the matter till Thursday and verbally asked the AG to tell the state police to cooperate in the investigation.

The high court had on Monday refused an immediate hearing on the case following an objection by the Union government.

AG Dutta submitted on Monday that despite a stay by the high court on steps regarding notice to state police officials, the CBI sought to enter Kumar's residence on Sunday and question him.

He submitted that the court is scheduled to hear the matter on February 13 and as such, the CBI's attempt to enter Kumar's official residence was in violation of its order.

Additional Solicitor General Kaushik Chanda had submitted that the stay was on a CBI notice to only Arnab Ghosh, the then deputy commissioner (detective department) of Bidhannagar Police, which initially investigated the chit fund case, and two other police officials - Dilip Hazra and Sankar Bhattacharya.

He further told the court that the CBI has already moved the Supreme Court, on the order of which the central agency is investigating the chit fund cases, and as such the hearing on the state's prayer be adjourned.&nbsp;

The Calcutta High Court Tuesday adjourned hearing on the West Bengal government's plea against the CBI's attempt to enter Kolkata police chief Rajeev Kumar's residence to question him in connection with the multi-crore chit fund scam cases.

The Calcutta High Court Tuesday adjourned hearing on the West Bengal government's plea against the CBI's attempt to enter Kolkata police chief Rajeev Kumar's residence to question him in connection with the multi-crore chit fund scam cases. The state government had on Monday pleaded for an immediate hearing on the incident from the day before when CBI sleuths appeared outside the police commissioner's official residence unannounced. The high court had declined their plea said that it will take it up on Tuesday. Appearing before Justice Shivakant Prasad at the beginning of the proceedings Tuesday morning, State Advocate General Kishore Dutta prayed for adjournment of the matter since the Supreme Court was already seized of the issue. On the state government's prayer, Justice Prasad adjourned hearing in the matter till Thursday and verbally asked the AG to tell the state police to cooperate in the investigation. The high court had on Monday refused an immediate hearing on the case following an objection by the Union government. AG Dutta submitted on Monday that despite a stay by the high court on steps regarding notice to state police officials, the CBI sought to enter Kumar's residence on Sunday and question him. He submitted that the court is scheduled to hear the matter on February 13 and as such, the CBI's attempt to enter Kumar's official residence was in violation of its order. Additional Solicitor General Kaushik Chanda had submitted that the stay was on a CBI notice to only Arnab Ghosh, the then deputy commissioner (detective department) of Bidhannagar Police, which initially investigated the chit fund case, and two other police officials - Dilip Hazra and Sankar Bhattacharya. He further told the court that the CBI has already moved the Supreme Court, on the order of which the central agency is investigating the chit fund cases, and as such the hearing on the state's prayer be adjourned.

Calcutta High Court adjourns hearing on CBI bid to question Kolkata Police chief 

BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain on Tuesday said the TMC-led government in West Bengal has denied the party permission for a rally in Murshidabad and alleged that there is complete lawlessness in the state.

Hussain said he will still go to Murshidabad and is already on the way.

Last week, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was denied permission to hold a rally in the state, which is witnessing a political slugfest between the ruling TMC and the BJP.

“I have been told that the district administration has not given permission to hold a rally in Murshidabad, which was scheduled for today. The party had sought permission and had informed the local administration in advance,” Hussain said.

The Mamata Banerjee-led government in the state and BJP are at loggerheads after the CBI tried to question Kolkata’s police commissioner in connection with chit fund scams. Banerjee has been on a ‘dharna’ since Sunday night over the CBI’s attempts to interrogate the police chief.

BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain on Tuesday said the TMC-led government in West Bengal has denied the party permission for a rally in Murshidabad and alleged that there is complete lawlessness in the state.

BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain on Tuesday said the TMC-led government in West Bengal has denied the party permission for a rally in Murshidabad and alleged that there is complete lawlessness in the state. Hussain said he will still go to Murshidabad and is already on the way. Last week, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was denied permission to hold a rally in the state, which is witnessing a political slugfest between the ruling TMC and the BJP. “I have been told that the district administration has not given permission to hold a rally in Murshidabad, which was scheduled for today. The party had sought permission and had informed the local administration in advance,” Hussain said. The Mamata Banerjee-led government in the state and BJP are at loggerheads after the CBI tried to question Kolkata’s police commissioner in connection with chit fund scams. Banerjee has been on a ‘dharna’ since Sunday night over the CBI’s attempts to interrogate the police chief.

Denied permission to hold rally in Murshidabad in West Bengal: Shahnawaz Hussain

The CBI had to bear the brunt of Kolkata Police after it sought to question some policemen in connection with ponzi scam cases, and one of its officers was even issued notices by the police implicating him in alleged vandalism of a hotel owned by Rose Valley Group, agency officials claimed Monday.

The Sunday showdown, where the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-police-cbi-face-off-wb-governor-submits-report-to-home-ministry-195075">CBI and Kolkata Police</a> came face-to-face, was a result of tension brewing between the two forces for over two years, they said.

The CBI, probing the ponzi scam cases, wanted to question Rajeev Kumar, head of a special investigation team constituted by the state government, and its members to probe Saradha scam in which thousands of investors were cheated of over Rs 2,500 crore, they said.

The investigation by the agency was met with an alleged retaliatory action from the Kolkata Police, which issued notices to Bratin Ghoshal, a CBI inspector probing one of the ponzi scam cases related to Rose Valley Group.

The Kolkata Police called Ghoshal in connection with alleged vandalism of Park Prime Hotel in the city, reportedly owned by Rose Valley Group, in 2017 soon after the CBI started sending notices to SIT members for questioning in September 2017, they said.

He was asked to report at Ballygunge police station under Section 160 CrPC which allows any investigation officer to record statement and evidence in a case.

The SIT was headed by then Bidhan Nagar Commissioner Rajeev Kumar, a 1989-batch IPS officer, who is now Commissioner, Kolkata Police, they said.

The SIT had arrested Sudipta Sen and Debjani Mukherjee, promoters of Saradha Group and prime accused in the case, in Jammu and Kashmir on March 20, 2013.

"State police were first to enter the premises of Saradha Group post-collapse and there are allegations that important documents which could have provided important leads were removed to cause the disappearance of evidence," a senior CBI official said on the condition of anonymity.

The agency, which wanted to probe SIT members, was not getting a positive response from the police as many officials, including Kumar, gave excuses to evade questioning.

The CBI had to bear the brunt of Kolkata Police after it sought to question some policemen in connection with ponzi scam cases, and one of its officers was even issued notices by the police implicating him in alleged vandalism of a hotel owned by Rose Valley Group, agency officials claimed Monday.

The CBI had to bear the brunt of Kolkata Police after it sought to question some policemen in connection with ponzi scam cases, and one of its officers was even issued notices by the police implicating him in alleged vandalism of a hotel owned by Rose Valley Group, agency officials claimed Monday. The Sunday showdown, where the CBI and Kolkata Police came face-to-face, was a result of tension brewing between the two forces for over two years, they said. The CBI, probing the ponzi scam cases, wanted to question Rajeev Kumar, head of a special investigation team constituted by the state government, and its members to probe Saradha scam in which thousands of investors were cheated of over Rs 2,500 crore, they said. The investigation by the agency was met with an alleged retaliatory action from the Kolkata Police, which issued notices to Bratin Ghoshal, a CBI inspector probing one of the ponzi scam cases related to Rose Valley Group. The Kolkata Police called Ghoshal in connection with alleged vandalism of Park Prime Hotel in the city, reportedly owned by Rose Valley Group, in 2017 soon after the CBI started sending notices to SIT members for questioning in September 2017, they said. He was asked to report at Ballygunge police station under Section 160 CrPC which allows any investigation officer to record statement and evidence in a case. The SIT was headed by then Bidhan Nagar Commissioner Rajeev Kumar, a 1989-batch IPS officer, who is now Commissioner, Kolkata Police, they said. The SIT had arrested Sudipta Sen and Debjani Mukherjee, promoters of Saradha Group and prime accused in the case, in Jammu and Kashmir on March 20, 2013. "State police were first to enter the premises of Saradha Group post-collapse and there are allegations that important documents which could have provided important leads were removed to cause the disappearance of evidence," a senior CBI official said on the condition of anonymity. The agency, which wanted to probe SIT members, was not getting a positive response from the police as many officials, including Kumar, gave excuses to evade questioning.

CBI official was called for questioning by Kolkata Police after notices to SIT members

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Monday said that her dharna against the CBI's attempt to grill the Kolkata Police chief in the chit fund scam cases will continue till Friday in view of the upcoming boards examinations.

Banerjee is sitting on a dharna at the Metro Channel in Esplanade area in the heart of the city, the same spot she had sat on a 26-day fast in 2006 against the acquisition of farmland at Singur for the Tata Motors factory.

She has termed her dharna as "satyagraha" against the CBI and the Centre, which she said was attempting a "coup" in Bengal.

"This demonstration will continue till February 8. Because the boards examinations will be starting soon and we will not be playing the loudspeakers," she said.

Earlier in the day, Banerjee had said she would continue her "satyagraha" till the country and its Constitution are "saved".

A CBI team had gone to Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar's residence in the city on Sunday to question him in connection with multi-crore chit fund scams but was denied permission, bundled into jeeps and whisked to a police station.

The Trinamool Congress supremo has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah of trying to organise a "coup" in the state and alleged that

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is directing CBI to harass political opponents on the orders of the prime minister.

Effigies of Modi and Shah were burnt in several parts of the state including Burdwan, Birbhum, South 24 Parganas and North 24 Parganas districts.

Trinamool activists also blocked trains in Howrah and Hooghly districts and put up blockades on the national highway in Bankura district.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Monday said that her dharna against the CBI's attempt to grill the Kolkata Police chief in the chit fund scam cases will continue till Friday in view of the upcoming boards examinations.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Monday said that her dharna against the CBI's attempt to grill the Kolkata Police chief in the chit fund scam cases will continue till Friday in view of the upcoming boards examinations. Banerjee is sitting on a dharna at the Metro Channel in Esplanade area in the heart of the city, the same spot she had sat on a 26-day fast in 2006 against the acquisition of farmland at Singur for the Tata Motors factory. She has termed her dharna as "satyagraha" against the CBI and the Centre, which she said was attempting a "coup" in Bengal. "This demonstration will continue till February 8. Because the boards examinations will be starting soon and we will not be playing the loudspeakers," she said. Earlier in the day, Banerjee had said she would continue her "satyagraha" till the country and its Constitution are "saved". A CBI team had gone to Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar's residence in the city on Sunday to question him in connection with multi-crore chit fund scams but was denied permission, bundled into jeeps and whisked to a police station. The Trinamool Congress supremo has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah of trying to organise a "coup" in the state and alleged that National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is directing CBI to harass political opponents on the orders of the prime minister. Effigies of Modi and Shah were burnt in several parts of the state including Burdwan, Birbhum, South 24 Parganas and North 24 Parganas districts. Trinamool activists also blocked trains in Howrah and Hooghly districts and put up blockades on the national highway in Bankura district.

Dharna will continue till Friday: Mamata Banerjee

The CBI-Kolkata Police row Monday washed out proceedings in both houses of Parliament, even as Home Minister Rajnath Singh termed the developments in West Bengal as "unprecedented" and warned that the Centre has powers to take action.

After repeated adjournments, both the houses were adjourned for the day.

 
In the Lok Sabha, Trinamool Congress members were joined in their protest by members of the Congress, BJD, NCP, SP and RJD who spoke out against the Centre over developments in West Bengal, with many of them alleging that the Narendra Modi government was misusing the CBI.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-to-move-supreme-court-against-detention-of-agency-officials-by-mamata-government-194919">West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC leader Mamata Banerjee</a> Sunday began a sit-in protest in Kolkata over the CBI's attempt to question the Kolkata Police chief in connection with chit fund scams.

A CBI team, which went to Kumar's residence in the city's Loudon Street area, was denied permission, bundled into police jeeps and whisked to a police station on Sunday.

Amid noisy protests by Trinamool Congress members, Singh told the Lok Sabha that it was "unprecedented" that the CBI was stopped from lawfully doing its duty when it wanted to question Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar regarding chit fund scams on Sunday.

In the first reaction from the Centre on the incident, the Home Minister said the CBI team wanted to question Kumar as he was "not cooperating".

Making a statement in Lok Sabha on the prevailing situation in Kolkata, Singh described the action against the CBI probe team as "unprecedented" and a threat to the federal system of the country.

"There may be a constitutional breakdown in West Bengal... under the Constitution, the central government has been vested with the power to maintain normalcy in any part of the country," he said.

"Whatever happened on Sunday, it indicates a constitutional breakdown," Singh said amid din in the House.

He also said that a report has been sought from the Governor. 
The home minister hoped that the West Bengal government, as well as other state governments, provide a conducive atmosphere for law enforcement agencies to carry out their duties.

Earlier, opposition parties in Lok Sabha attacked the government over the alleged misuse of central agencies against political rivals, saying it was against democratic norms.

Trinamool Congress leader Saugata Roy said there is a crisis in West Bengal and that the Centre was "misusing" the CBI to politically capture the state. 
While alleging that the Centre was "constantly using the CBI to throttle the Opposition", Roy said the party is strongly protesting with all forces at its command.

BJD leader B Mahtab said the incident smacks of impropriety and also questions the integrity of the CBI.

"We are not a banana republic...," he said, adding the CBI is becoming a "political stooge and political weapon" in the hands of the Centre. 
Stressing that the CBI should be a professional organisation, Mahtab charged that there have been attempts in Odisha by the probe agency to defame the BJD.

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge charged that the government was using the CBI as a weapon to finish the Opposition and put in place an autocratic regime.

Referring to alleged misuse of the CBI, Kharge said such things have happened not only in West Bengal but also in Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

Neither the people nor any party would bow down before such actions, he added.

NCP leader Supriya Sule said her party is condemning the CBI for allegedly using its muscle power against a woman chief minister. 
Dharmendra Yadav (SP) and Jaiprakash Narayan Yadav (RJD) also spoke against the Centre.

CPI-M member Badaruddoza Khan said both the Trinamool Congress and the Centre were at fault, adding the CBI did not take action during the last four years.

Saumitra Khan, who won on a Trinamool Congress ticket and had recently joined the BJP, also spoke.

Rajya Sabha witnessed similar scenes with proceedings washed out amid ruckus by Trinamool Congress members over the issue of alleged misuse of the CBI by the Centre.

As soon as the House assembled, slogan shouting by TMC members on the issue resulted in adjournment of the House till 2 PM.

The same situation prevailed when the House resumed in the afternoon. 
TMC leader Derek O'Brien had moved a notice for discussion on the issue. But he was told by Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu that he can raise this issue during Zero Hour as also during the motion of thanks to the President's address.

In the meanwhile, TMC and SP members trooped into the well and started raising slogans.

The chairman said, "You don't want discussion. You don't want to speak in reply to the motion of thanks (to President's address)".

When TMC members did not show any signs of relenting, Naidu adjourned the House for the day.

In Lok Sabha, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Narendra Singh Tomar made a plea to agitating members to go back to their seats, stating it was time for motion of thanks on the President's address.

Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said as the CBI matter is already in the Supreme Court, the court should be allowed to take a call.

The Speaker allowed Trinamool Congress leader Saugata Roy to speak about the incident in Kolkata involving the CBI and the Kolkata Police.

BJD leader B Mahtab, Leader of Congress in the Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge and those from the Left, SP, NCP and RJD also spoke against the Centre during the Zero Hour.

When Home Minister Rajnath Singh started to speak on the issue, Trinamool Congress members trooped into the Well and began shouting slogans. Some of them were also seen clapping.

Mahajan continued with the Zero Hour for less than ten minutes and as the protests continued, the proceedings were adjourned till 2 PM.

Several political leaders, including Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and RJD national president Lalu Prasad have come out in support of Banerjee.

Gandhi had called up Banerjee and extended support to her, saying the entire opposition is together and will defeat "fascist" forces.

The CBI-Kolkata Police row Monday washed out proceedings in both houses of Parliament, even as Home Minister Rajnath Singh termed the developments in West Bengal as "unprecedented" and warned that the Centre has powers to take action.

The CBI-Kolkata Police row Monday washed out proceedings in both houses of Parliament, even as Home Minister Rajnath Singh termed the developments in West Bengal as "unprecedented" and warned that the Centre has powers to take action. After repeated adjournments, both the houses were adjourned for the day. In the Lok Sabha, Trinamool Congress members were joined in their protest by members of the Congress, BJD, NCP, SP and RJD who spoke out against the Centre over developments in West Bengal, with many of them alleging that the Narendra Modi government was misusing the CBI. West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC leader Mamata Banerjee Sunday began a sit-in protest in Kolkata over the CBI's attempt to question the Kolkata Police chief in connection with chit fund scams. A CBI team, which went to Kumar's residence in the city's Loudon Street area, was denied permission, bundled into police jeeps and whisked to a police station on Sunday. Amid noisy protests by Trinamool Congress members, Singh told the Lok Sabha that it was "unprecedented" that the CBI was stopped from lawfully doing its duty when it wanted to question Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar regarding chit fund scams on Sunday. In the first reaction from the Centre on the incident, the Home Minister said the CBI team wanted to question Kumar as he was "not cooperating". Making a statement in Lok Sabha on the prevailing situation in Kolkata, Singh described the action against the CBI probe team as "unprecedented" and a threat to the federal system of the country. "There may be a constitutional breakdown in West Bengal... under the Constitution, the central government has been vested with the power to maintain normalcy in any part of the country," he said. "Whatever happened on Sunday, it indicates a constitutional breakdown," Singh said amid din in the House. He also said that a report has been sought from the Governor. The home minister hoped that the West Bengal government, as well as other state governments, provide a conducive atmosphere for law enforcement agencies to carry out their duties. Earlier, opposition parties in Lok Sabha attacked the government over the alleged misuse of central agencies against political rivals, saying it was against democratic norms. Trinamool Congress leader Saugata Roy said there is a crisis in West Bengal and that the Centre was "misusing" the CBI to politically capture the state. While alleging that the Centre was "constantly using the CBI to throttle the Opposition", Roy said the party is strongly protesting with all forces at its command. BJD leader B Mahtab said the incident smacks of impropriety and also questions the integrity of the CBI. "We are not a banana republic...," he said, adding the CBI is becoming a "political stooge and political weapon" in the hands of the Centre. Stressing that the CBI should be a professional organisation, Mahtab charged that there have been attempts in Odisha by the probe agency to defame the BJD. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge charged that the government was using the CBI as a weapon to finish the Opposition and put in place an autocratic regime. Referring to alleged misuse of the CBI, Kharge said such things have happened not only in West Bengal but also in Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Neither the people nor any party would bow down before such actions, he added. NCP leader Supriya Sule said her party is condemning the CBI for allegedly using its muscle power against a woman chief minister. Dharmendra Yadav (SP) and Jaiprakash Narayan Yadav (RJD) also spoke against the Centre. CPI-M member Badaruddoza Khan said both the Trinamool Congress and the Centre were at fault, adding the CBI did not take action during the last four years. Saumitra Khan, who won on a Trinamool Congress ticket and had recently joined the BJP, also spoke. Rajya Sabha witnessed similar scenes with proceedings washed out amid ruckus by Trinamool Congress members over the issue of alleged misuse of the CBI by the Centre. As soon as the House assembled, slogan shouting by TMC members on the issue resulted in adjournment of the House till 2 PM. The same situation prevailed when the House resumed in the afternoon. TMC leader Derek O'Brien had moved a notice for discussion on the issue. But he was told by Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu that he can raise this issue during Zero Hour as also during the motion of thanks to the President's address. In the meanwhile, TMC and SP members trooped into the well and started raising slogans. The chairman said, "You don't want discussion. You don't want to speak in reply to the motion of thanks (to President's address)". When TMC members did not show any signs of relenting, Naidu adjourned the House for the day. In Lok Sabha, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Narendra Singh Tomar made a plea to agitating members to go back to their seats, stating it was time for motion of thanks on the President's address. Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said as the CBI matter is already in the Supreme Court, the court should be allowed to take a call. The Speaker allowed Trinamool Congress leader Saugata Roy to speak about the incident in Kolkata involving the CBI and the Kolkata Police. BJD leader B Mahtab, Leader of Congress in the Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge and those from the Left, SP, NCP and RJD also spoke against the Centre during the Zero Hour. When Home Minister Rajnath Singh started to speak on the issue, Trinamool Congress members trooped into the Well and began shouting slogans. Some of them were also seen clapping. Mahajan continued with the Zero Hour for less than ten minutes and as the protests continued, the proceedings were adjourned till 2 PM. Several political leaders, including Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and RJD national president Lalu Prasad have come out in support of Banerjee. Gandhi had called up Banerjee and extended support to her, saying the entire opposition is together and will defeat "fascist" forces.

Both houses of Parliament adjourned over CBI-Kolkata Police row

Credibility Lost

At the heart of CBI’s attempted raid in West Bengal, lies the credibility of the central agency as an institution in India. Indian politicians have failed the institution miserably. CBI continues to derive its power from the Delhi Police Establishment Act of 1946. Today, entire Opposition is crying foul and accusing the present government of misusing CBI.&nbsp;

In 2012, the then minister of the state in charge of DOPT, Narayan Swami, went on to say that CBI has adequate and functional autonomy and there exists no proposal within the government to grant constitutional status to the investigative agency.

Both Congress and BJP, despite being in government for several years, neither initiated reform within the institution nor pushed for legislative debate to reconceive the legal architecture of the agency.&nbsp;

This inertia continues despite the fact that Guwahati high court declared CBI unconstitutional on November 7, 2013. The agency, thereafter, had to rush to the Supreme Court to take a stay order on the decision on November 9.

It proves that both Congress and BJP want the makeshift arrangement to stay alive and kicking because it allows them to use the CBI as a 'political weapon'.

This arrangement received further nourishment after the 1989 elections when the era of coalition dawned on Indian politics. The successive governments ended up using CBI to shore up political support by hectoring regional parties with cases of corruption.&nbsp;

It allowed them to survive with less numbers in Parliament. It is for this reason, even BJP, which enjoys majority in Lok Sabha, did not move an inch to appoint the Lokpal system which UPA 2 had to adopt under duress.

What makes the case of government even weaker is that the Supreme Court itself has passed relevant instructions to the CBI. As per the Supreme Court’s interim order given on July 16, 2018, both state police and CBI were supposed to work in tandem. More so, the court had directed CBI to approach high court in Calcutta in case they faced any obstruction.&nbsp;

Though Centre did give reminders to the state government on multiple occasion but the relief should have been sought from the relevant court as directed by the Apex Court.

In this case, it becomes very clear as to what direction the Apex Court may head to. For many, it may be a case of constitutional crisis and deteriorating relationship between the Centre and state, but CBI’s credibility and its pending reform lies at heart of the matter. 
 
Regional Chauvinism vs Corruption

There is no doubt that Rose valley and Sharda scams represent underbelly of India’s crony capitalism. It represents the way political parties organise funding for its day-to-day running, and election expenses.&nbsp;

BJP wants the matter to appear as a campaign against corrupt politicians, whereas TMC wants it to turn into an issue of regional pride and authoritarian assault by Centre against non-BJP state governments.

There is no denying the fact that most of the accused in the scam were closely associated with TMC. It explains TMC’s nervousness in the case and proves that case cannot be hushed forever.&nbsp;

Regional chauvinism has succeeded on multiple occasions in Indian politics. Be it the case of NT Rama Rao in Andhra Pradesh or Nitish Kumar during 2015 Bihar elections or Naveen Patnaik in Odisha.&nbsp;

BJP wants West Bengal to be the new harvest ground to make up for the losses in other states.

Mamata, on the other hand, is trying to turn the issue into Federal constitutionalism. She has rallied support from many regional parties on this issue. Which issue will succeed in run up to the Lok Sabha elections is a million-dollar question, but one thing is clear that Mamata’s role will not be limited to West Bengal in case electorate throws up a hung house.

Regional Parties

BJP has already mangled its equations with regional parties. It has been primarily a result of expansion of BJP’s footprint in far corners of India.&nbsp;

BJP has taken up issues which have pitted the party against small and regional parties.

It is going to pose a great challenge to the Saffron party in case it falls short of numbers. BJP will have to face a lot of political hectoring from smaller players in case it needs to shore up numbers for a simple majority in Lok Sabha.

The attempted raid not only brings many smaller players on one platform but will also test the issue of corruption in 2019 elections. It worked in 2014. However, same can’t be said today when the focus has turned to economy and jobs where it has failed miserably.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Credibility Lost At the heart of CBI’s attempted raid in West Bengal, lies the credibility of the central agency as an institution in India. Indian politicians have failed the institution miserably.

Credibility Lost At the heart of CBI’s attempted raid in West Bengal, lies the credibility of the central agency as an institution in India. Indian politicians have failed the institution miserably. CBI continues to derive its power from the Delhi Police Establishment Act of 1946. Today, entire Opposition is crying foul and accusing the present government of misusing CBI. In 2012, the then minister of the state in charge of DOPT, Narayan Swami, went on to say that CBI has adequate and functional autonomy and there exists no proposal within the government to grant constitutional status to the investigative agency. Both Congress and BJP, despite being in government for several years, neither initiated reform within the institution nor pushed for legislative debate to reconceive the legal architecture of the agency. This inertia continues despite the fact that Guwahati high court declared CBI unconstitutional on November 7, 2013. The agency, thereafter, had to rush to the Supreme Court to take a stay order on the decision on November 9. It proves that both Congress and BJP want the makeshift arrangement to stay alive and kicking because it allows them to use the CBI as a 'political weapon'. This arrangement received further nourishment after the 1989 elections when the era of coalition dawned on Indian politics. The successive governments ended up using CBI to shore up political support by hectoring regional parties with cases of corruption. It allowed them to survive with less numbers in Parliament. It is for this reason, even BJP, which enjoys majority in Lok Sabha, did not move an inch to appoint the Lokpal system which UPA 2 had to adopt under duress. What makes the case of government even weaker is that the Supreme Court itself has passed relevant instructions to the CBI. As per the Supreme Court’s interim order given on July 16, 2018, both state police and CBI were supposed to work in tandem. More so, the court had directed CBI to approach high court in Calcutta in case they faced any obstruction. Though Centre did give reminders to the state government on multiple occasion but the relief should have been sought from the relevant court as directed by the Apex Court. In this case, it becomes very clear as to what direction the Apex Court may head to. For many, it may be a case of constitutional crisis and deteriorating relationship between the Centre and state, but CBI’s credibility and its pending reform lies at heart of the matter. Regional Chauvinism vs Corruption There is no doubt that Rose valley and Sharda scams represent underbelly of India’s crony capitalism. It represents the way political parties organise funding for its day-to-day running, and election expenses. BJP wants the matter to appear as a campaign against corrupt politicians, whereas TMC wants it to turn into an issue of regional pride and authoritarian assault by Centre against non-BJP state governments. There is no denying the fact that most of the accused in the scam were closely associated with TMC. It explains TMC’s nervousness in the case and proves that case cannot be hushed forever. Regional chauvinism has succeeded on multiple occasions in Indian politics. Be it the case of NT Rama Rao in Andhra Pradesh or Nitish Kumar during 2015 Bihar elections or Naveen Patnaik in Odisha. BJP wants West Bengal to be the new harvest ground to make up for the losses in other states. Mamata, on the other hand, is trying to turn the issue into Federal constitutionalism. She has rallied support from many regional parties on this issue. Which issue will succeed in run up to the Lok Sabha elections is a million-dollar question, but one thing is clear that Mamata’s role will not be limited to West Bengal in case electorate throws up a hung house. Regional Parties BJP has already mangled its equations with regional parties. It has been primarily a result of expansion of BJP’s footprint in far corners of India. BJP has taken up issues which have pitted the party against small and regional parties. It is going to pose a great challenge to the Saffron party in case it falls short of numbers. BJP will have to face a lot of political hectoring from smaller players in case it needs to shore up numbers for a simple majority in Lok Sabha. The attempted raid not only brings many smaller players on one platform but will also test the issue of corruption in 2019 elections. It worked in 2014. However, same can’t be said today when the focus has turned to economy and jobs where it has failed miserably. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

West Bengal fiasco: Credibility of CBI is the issue and not Mamata vs Modi

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russia-slams-european-interference-in-venezuela-195064">Russia slams European 'interference' in Venezuela</a>

Russia on Monday slammed what it said were attempts to interfere in Venezuela's domestic affairs after several European countries recognised opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-vs-bengal-ready-to-give-my-life-but-not-compromise-says-mamata-cbi-files-contempt-plea-in-sc-195124">Centre vs Bengal: Ready to give my life but not compromise, says Mamata; CBI files contempt plea in SC</a>

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said she is "ready to give my life but not compromise" in the wake of the CBI-Kolkata Police face-off in her state.&nbsp;

"I am ready to give my life but not compromise. I did not take to the streets when you touched TMC leaders. But I am angry when they tried to insult the chair of the Kolkata Police Commissioner, he is leading the organisation," Mamata said.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-spain-recognises-venezuela-opposition-leader-guaido-as-acting-president-195050">UK, France, Germany recognise Venezuela opposition leader Guaido as acting president</a>

Britain, France, Spain and Germany on Monday recognised Venezuela's opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader after President Nicolas Maduro rejected a demand by several European powers for fresh elections.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-constitution-rejects-use-of-iraq-as-a-base-for-attacking-a-neighbouring-country-barham-saleh-195059">After Trump speaks, Iraqis demand </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-constitution-rejects-use-of-iraq-as-a-base-for-attacking-a-neighbouring-country-barham-saleh-195059">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-constitution-rejects-use-of-iraq-as-a-base-for-attacking-a-neighbouring-country-barham-saleh-195059"> leave </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-constitution-rejects-use-of-iraq-as-a-base-for-attacking-a-neighbouring-country-barham-saleh-195059">country</a>

Iraqi politicians on Monday hit back at Donald Trump after the US president said he plans to keep American forces in the country to spy on Iran.

In an interview with CBS television, Trump reaffirmed his determination to pull the United States out of "endless wars" in Syria and Afghanistan but said American troops would stay on in Iraq, partly "to be looking a little bit at Iran".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/body-found-in-wreckage-of-footballer-salas-plane-investigators-195090">Body found in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/body-found-in-wreckage-of-footballer-salas-plane-investigators-195090">wreckage</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/body-found-in-wreckage-of-footballer-salas-plane-investigators-195090"> of footballer Emiliano Sala's plane: Investigators</a>

British investigators on Monday said they had spotted a body in underwater images of the wreckage of the plane carrying footballer Emiliano Sala and pilot David Ibbotson that disappeared in the Channel two weeks ago.

Russia slams European 'interference' in Venezuela Russia on Monday slammed what it said were attempts to interfere in Venezuela's domestic affairs after several European countries recognised opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader.

Russia slams European 'interference' in Venezuela Russia on Monday slammed what it said were attempts to interfere in Venezuela's domestic affairs after several European countries recognised opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader. Centre vs Bengal: Ready to give my life but not compromise, says Mamata; CBI files contempt plea in SC West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said she is "ready to give my life but not compromise" in the wake of the CBI-Kolkata Police face-off in her state. "I am ready to give my life but not compromise. I did not take to the streets when you touched TMC leaders. But I am angry when they tried to insult the chair of the Kolkata Police Commissioner, he is leading the organisation," Mamata said. UK, France, Germany recognise Venezuela opposition leader Guaido as acting president Britain, France, Spain and Germany on Monday recognised Venezuela's opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader after President Nicolas Maduro rejected a demand by several European powers for fresh elections. After Trump speaks, Iraqis demand US leave country Iraqi politicians on Monday hit back at Donald Trump after the US president said he plans to keep American forces in the country to spy on Iran. In an interview with CBS television, Trump reaffirmed his determination to pull the United States out of "endless wars" in Syria and Afghanistan but said American troops would stay on in Iraq, partly "to be looking a little bit at Iran". Body found in wreckage of footballer Emiliano Sala's plane: Investigators British investigators on Monday said they had spotted a body in underwater images of the wreckage of the plane carrying footballer Emiliano Sala and pilot David Ibbotson that disappeared in the Channel two weeks ago.

News brief: Big stories of the day

TMC supporters allegedly vandalised BJP party office in South Kolkata on Monday.

The BJP accused TMC supporters of vandalising its office in Bhawanipore, South Kolkata stating that "law and order has completely collapsed! No one is safe under TMC".

".@mamataofficial’s goons have vandalised the BJP party office in Bhawanipore, South Kolkata. Mamata represents the Bhawanipore constituency," read a tweet posted by BJP Bengal.&nbsp;

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Monday said there may be a constitutional breakdown in West Bengal in the wake of the Kolkata Police-CBI face-off and asserted that the Centre has the power to take action.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mamataofficial</a>’s goons have vandalised the BJP party office in Bhawanipore, South Kolkata. Mamata represents the Bhawanipore constituency. 
 
Law and order has completely collapsed! No one is safe under TMC. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MamataFreeBengal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MamataFreeBengal</a> <a href="https://t.co/v28er7Sb80">pic.twitter.com/v28er7Sb80</a>
— BJP Bengal (@BJP4Bengal) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4Bengal/status/1092372365332246528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Amidst uproar in the Lok Sabha, he also termed as "unprecedented" the move to stop the probe agency from performing its duty.

In an unprecedented development, a number of CBI officers, who had gone to question Rajeev Kumar in connection with chit fund scam cases, were bundled into police jeeps, whisked to a police station and briefly detained on Sunday.

Hours after the incident, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee began a sit-in right in front of the Metro Cinema to protest "insults" she faced at the hands of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah and claimed the CBI knocked on the doors of Kumar without a search warrant.

As the West Bengal CM continues with her dharna, she claimed that her 'Satyagraha' isn't against any agency but against "Modi-government's atrocities."

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Kolkata: BJP office in Bhabanipur has been vandalised. More details awaited. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengal</a> <a href="https://t.co/LvKXrQqtHW">pic.twitter.com/LvKXrQqtHW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1092383319147319296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-vs-bengal-ready-to-give-my-life-but-not-compromise-says-mamata-cbi-files-contempt-plea-in-sc-195124">I am ready to give my life</a> but not compromise. I did not take to the streets when you touched TMC leaders. But I am angry when they tried to insult the chair of the Kolkata Police Commissioner, he is leading the organisation," Banerjee noted on Monday.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, West Bengal Governor KN Tripathi has submitted a report to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on the situation that unfolded in the city after a CBI team was allegedly obstructed by the police from questioning Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar in the Saradha scam, Raj Bhavan sources said Monday.

The contents of the report were, however, not immediately known, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

As per an ANI report, the CBI has filed a contempt plea in the Supreme Court against West Bengal's Chief Secretary, Director General of Police and Kolkata Police Commissioner for wilful and deliberate violation of apex court's orders. More details on the development are awaited.&nbsp;

TMC supporters allegedly vandalised BJP party office in South Kolkata on Monday. The BJP accused TMC supporters of vandalising its office in Bhawanipore, South Kolkata stating that "law and order has completely collapsed!

TMC supporters allegedly vandalised BJP party office in South Kolkata on Monday. The BJP accused TMC supporters of vandalising its office in Bhawanipore, South Kolkata stating that "law and order has completely collapsed! No one is safe under TMC". ".@mamataofficial’s goons have vandalised the BJP party office in Bhawanipore, South Kolkata. Mamata represents the Bhawanipore constituency," read a tweet posted by BJP Bengal. Home Minister Rajnath Singh Monday said there may be a constitutional breakdown in West Bengal in the wake of the Kolkata Police-CBI face-off and asserted that the Centre has the power to take action. .@mamataofficial’s goons have vandalised the BJP party office in Bhawanipore, South Kolkata. Mamata represents the Bhawanipore constituency. Law and order has completely collapsed! No one is safe under TMC. #MamataFreeBengal pic.twitter.com/v28er7Sb80 — BJP Bengal (@BJP4Bengal) February 4, 2019 × Amidst uproar in the Lok Sabha, he also termed as "unprecedented" the move to stop the probe agency from performing its duty. In an unprecedented development, a number of CBI officers, who had gone to question Rajeev Kumar in connection with chit fund scam cases, were bundled into police jeeps, whisked to a police station and briefly detained on Sunday. Hours after the incident, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee began a sit-in right in front of the Metro Cinema to protest "insults" she faced at the hands of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah and claimed the CBI knocked on the doors of Kumar without a search warrant. As the West Bengal CM continues with her dharna, she claimed that her 'Satyagraha' isn't against any agency but against "Modi-government's atrocities." Kolkata: BJP office in Bhabanipur has been vandalised. More details awaited. #WestBengal pic.twitter.com/LvKXrQqtHW — ANI (@ANI) February 4, 2019 × "I am ready to give my life but not compromise. I did not take to the streets when you touched TMC leaders. But I am angry when they tried to insult the chair of the Kolkata Police Commissioner, he is leading the organisation," Banerjee noted on Monday. Meanwhile, West Bengal Governor KN Tripathi has submitted a report to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on the situation that unfolded in the city after a CBI team was allegedly obstructed by the police from questioning Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar in the Saradha scam, Raj Bhavan sources said Monday. The contents of the report were, however, not immediately known, news agency PTI reported. As per an ANI report, the CBI has filed a contempt plea in the Supreme Court against West Bengal's Chief Secretary, Director General of Police and Kolkata Police Commissioner for wilful and deliberate violation of apex court's orders. More details on the development are awaited.

BJP accuses 'Mamata's goons' of vandalising party office in South Kolkata, posts video

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Monday said there may be a constitutional breakdown in West Bengal in the wake of the Kolkata Police-CBI face-off and asserted that the Centre has the power to take action.

Amidst uproar in the Lok Sabha, he also termed as "unprecedented" the move to stop the probe agency from performing its duty.

An all-out war broke out between the Centre and the Mamata Banerjee government on Sunday over the CBI's attempt to question the Kolkata Police commissioner in connection with chit fund scams.

Making a statement in Lok Sabha on the prevailing situation in Kolkata, Singh described the action against the CBI probe team, which went to question Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar, as "unprecedented" and a threat to the federal political system of the country.

"There may be a constitutional breakdown in West Bengal... under the Constitution, the central government has been vested with the power to maintain normalcy in any part of the country," he said.

Earlier, opposition parties in Lok Sabha attacked the government over the alleged misuse of central agencies against political rivals, saying it was against democratic norms.

Members from Trinamool Congress, Biju Janata Dal, NCP and Samajwadi Party spoke against the CBI move to question the Kolkata police chief. 
A CPI-M member said both the Trinamool Congress and the Centre were at fault.

As soon as the House took up Zero Hour, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan allowed members to raise the issue.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Monday said there may be a constitutional breakdown in West Bengal in the wake of the Kolkata Police-CBI face-off and asserted that the Centre has the power to take action.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Monday said there may be a constitutional breakdown in West Bengal in the wake of the Kolkata Police-CBI face-off and asserted that the Centre has the power to take action. Amidst uproar in the Lok Sabha, he also termed as "unprecedented" the move to stop the probe agency from performing its duty. An all-out war broke out between the Centre and the Mamata Banerjee government on Sunday over the CBI's attempt to question the Kolkata Police commissioner in connection with chit fund scams. Making a statement in Lok Sabha on the prevailing situation in Kolkata, Singh described the action against the CBI probe team, which went to question Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar, as "unprecedented" and a threat to the federal political system of the country. "There may be a constitutional breakdown in West Bengal... under the Constitution, the central government has been vested with the power to maintain normalcy in any part of the country," he said. Earlier, opposition parties in Lok Sabha attacked the government over the alleged misuse of central agencies against political rivals, saying it was against democratic norms. Members from Trinamool Congress, Biju Janata Dal, NCP and Samajwadi Party spoke against the CBI move to question the Kolkata police chief. A CPI-M member said both the Trinamool Congress and the Centre were at fault. As soon as the House took up Zero Hour, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan allowed members to raise the issue.

There may be constitutional breakdown in West Bengal: Home Minister Rajnath Singh

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s rally in West Bengal's North Dinajpur on Sunday has been denied permission by the Trinamool government in the state.

The permission for Yogi Adityanath's rally was denied without any prior notice, his office said.&nbsp;

According to reports, the Trinamool Congress-led state government denied permission for Adityanath's chopper to land.&nbsp;

"This is because of Yogi Adityanath's popularity that Mamata Banerjee has denied permission to his chopper for landing in West Bengal," Mritunjay Kumar, Information Advisor to Uttar Pradesh chief minister, told news agency ANI.&nbsp;

In January, The Mamata Banerjee-led TMC government had denied permission to Amit Shah's chopper to land in Malda district.

BJP president Amit Shah had skipped his Jhargram rally a couple of days ago after the state administration denied permission for landing his chopper.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s rally in West Bengal's North Dinajpur on Sunday has been denied permission by the Trinamool government in the state.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s rally in West Bengal's North Dinajpur on Sunday has been denied permission by the Trinamool government in the state. The permission for Yogi Adityanath's rally was denied without any prior notice, his office said. According to reports, the Trinamool Congress-led state government denied permission for Adityanath's chopper to land. "This is because of Yogi Adityanath's popularity that Mamata Banerjee has denied permission to his chopper for landing in West Bengal," Mritunjay Kumar, Information Advisor to Uttar Pradesh chief minister, told news agency ANI. In January, The Mamata Banerjee-led TMC government had denied permission to Amit Shah's chopper to land in Malda district. BJP president Amit Shah had skipped his Jhargram rally a couple of days ago after the state administration denied permission for landing his chopper.

Mamata government denies permission for Yogi Adityanath rally in West Bengal

The BJP Sunday slammed the Mamata Banerjee-led government in West Bengal after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-sits-on-dharna-after-cbi-kolkata-police-face-off-194890">Kolkata Police stopped the CBI</a> from questioning its chief, accusing it of making a mockery of governance, democracy and constitutional propriety.

The party said the state government's action is a direct assault on the constitutional scheme of things and reflects dictatorial streak of the chief minister.

"The development in Kolkata and the resistance to the CBI investigation is bizarre, unprecedented and reflect Banerjee's dictatorial attitude. She has violated the very Constitution she had sworn by," party spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao said.

Noting that the CBI has been probing the chit fund scams on the Supreme Court's order, he said the city police's action amounts to disrespect and disobedience to the apex court.

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GVL Narasimha Rao: CBI is working as per directions of SC, no state govt has the power to obstruct or detain them. It's unconstitutional&amp;undemocratic...We hope SC gives a direction to WB govt, keeping this incident in view otherwise no agency will be able to work in this country. <a href="https://t.co/VYPz9pXGR4">https://t.co/VYPz9pXGR4</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1092096591559680000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Nalin Kohli, another BJP spokesperson, described the situation in the state as unprecedented and said it is an indication of "total collapse" of law and order.

Never before a premier investigation agency like the CBI has been stopped from doing its work, which is working under the court's direction.

"It is clear that the state government under Mamata Banerjee has lost sight of all constitutional propriety. People can see what a mockery of governance, democracy and constitutional propriety taking place," he said.

BJP leaders also spoke about how the state government "refused" its leaders from exercising their democratic rights by preventing them from attending rallies and other political programmes in the state.

Rao said the state government has been indulging in undemocratic and unconstitutional action for long and the Sunday's action by the Kolkata Police is "an assault beyond all limitations".&nbsp;

The BJP Sunday slammed the Mamata Banerjee-led government in West Bengal after Kolkata Police stopped the CBI from questioning its chief, accusing it of making a mockery of governance, democracy and constitutional propriety.

The BJP Sunday slammed the Mamata Banerjee-led government in West Bengal after Kolkata Police stopped the CBI from questioning its chief, accusing it of making a mockery of governance, democracy and constitutional propriety. The party said the state government's action is a direct assault on the constitutional scheme of things and reflects dictatorial streak of the chief minister. "The development in Kolkata and the resistance to the CBI investigation is bizarre, unprecedented and reflect Banerjee's dictatorial attitude. She has violated the very Constitution she had sworn by," party spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao said. Noting that the CBI has been probing the chit fund scams on the Supreme Court's order, he said the city police's action amounts to disrespect and disobedience to the apex court. GVL Narasimha Rao: CBI is working as per directions of SC, no state govt has the power to obstruct or detain them. It's unconstitutional&undemocratic...We hope SC gives a direction to WB govt, keeping this incident in view otherwise no agency will be able to work in this country. https://t.co/VYPz9pXGR4 — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2019 × Nalin Kohli, another BJP spokesperson, described the situation in the state as unprecedented and said it is an indication of "total collapse" of law and order. Never before a premier investigation agency like the CBI has been stopped from doing its work, which is working under the court's direction. "It is clear that the state government under Mamata Banerjee has lost sight of all constitutional propriety. People can see what a mockery of governance, democracy and constitutional propriety taking place," he said. BJP leaders also spoke about how the state government "refused" its leaders from exercising their democratic rights by preventing them from attending rallies and other political programmes in the state. Rao said the state government has been indulging in undemocratic and unconstitutional action for long and the Sunday's action by the Kolkata Police is "an assault beyond all limitations".

Mamata government making mockery of democracy, constitutional propriety: BJP

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has cancelled his rally at West Bengal's Raiganj and&nbsp;Balurghat&nbsp;after his chopper was refused permission to land by the Mamata Banerjee-led government.

Adityanath had earlier on Sunday addressed a&nbsp;"Ganatantra Bachao (Save the Republic) Rally" in Balurghat's&nbsp;South Dinajpur district via audio link.

"The TMC government didn't allow me to come and meet you all. That is why I had to resort to Digital India of Modi-ji to address you. This TMC government is anti-people, anti-democratic and have compromised with national security," PTI quoted Adityanath as saying.

"The TMC government is afraid of the BJP as it very well knows that its days in Bengal are numbered,"&nbsp;he added.

Going on to allege that the Trinamool Congress government had tried to stop Durga Puja in Bengal,&nbsp;Adityanath urged BJP workers to fight hard in order to ensure the party forms the next government in the state.

"Mamata Banerjee should remember that she cannot misuse the government and its agencies in the state. It is shameful that government officials are acting as TMC cadres in the state," Adityanath said.&nbsp;

He also&nbsp;urged the leaders&nbsp;who had attended the TMC's January 19 opposition rally in Kolkata to introspect on how democratic rights were being scuttled by the state government.

The West Bengal government had earlier in January also refused landing permission&nbsp;to BJP president&nbsp;Amit Shah's chopper. The government had cited ongoing "upgradation" of the Malda area.

Shah too had been scheduled to address a rally.

(With inputs from PTI)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has cancelled his rally at West Bengal's Raiganj and Balurghat after his chopper was refused permission to land by the Mamata Banerjee-led government.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has cancelled his rally at West Bengal's Raiganj and Balurghat after his chopper was refused permission to land by the Mamata Banerjee-led government. Adityanath had earlier on Sunday addressed a "Ganatantra Bachao (Save the Republic) Rally" in Balurghat's South Dinajpur district via audio link. "The TMC government didn't allow me to come and meet you all. That is why I had to resort to Digital India of Modi-ji to address you. This TMC government is anti-people, anti-democratic and have compromised with national security," PTI quoted Adityanath as saying. "The TMC government is afraid of the BJP as it very well knows that its days in Bengal are numbered," he added. Going on to allege that the Trinamool Congress government had tried to stop Durga Puja in Bengal, Adityanath urged BJP workers to fight hard in order to ensure the party forms the next government in the state. "Mamata Banerjee should remember that she cannot misuse the government and its agencies in the state. It is shameful that government officials are acting as TMC cadres in the state," Adityanath said. He also urged the leaders who had attended the TMC's January 19 opposition rally in Kolkata to introspect on how democratic rights were being scuttled by the state government. The West Bengal government had earlier in January also refused landing permission to BJP president Amit Shah's chopper. The government had cited ongoing "upgradation" of the Malda area. Shah too had been scheduled to address a rally. (With inputs from PTI)

Bengal government 'anti-democratic', says Yogi Adityanath after his chopper is refused permission to land

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