<p>The West Bengal unit of the BJP is planning to rope in Hindutva preacher Swami Aseemanand to work for strengthening the party base in the state following his acquittal in the Mecca Masjid blast case earlier this week, a senior party official said Thursday.</p>

<p>"I have personally known Swami Aseemanand for a long time. I will talk to him and try to bring him to West Bengal so that he can work here. For a long time, he has worked among the tribals in Bengal. He can help us in a lot of ways," BJP state president Dilip Ghosh told PTI.</p>

<p>A special anti-terror court on Monday had acquitted the 66-year-old self-proclaimed monk and four others in the 2007 Mecca Masjid blast case, holding that the prosecution failed to prove "even a single allegation" against them.</p>

<p>Aseemanand's younger brother, Sushanta Sarkar, is presently the secretary of the BJP's Hooghly unit.</p>

<p>Sarkar said he would be happy if his brother returned to the state for work.</p>

<p>"Our entire family is dedicated towards the Sangh Parivar. If my brother comes to Bengal and wants to work here, we will be very happy," Sarkar told PTI.</p>

<p>Another state BJP leader said although Aseemanand is an apolitical person, the saffron party would welcome him if he is willing to come to Bengal and work here, especially among the tribals.</p>

<p>Born as Naba Kumar Sarkar at Kamaarpukar in West Bengal's Hooghly district, Aseemanand completed his graduation in science in 1971. The self-proclaimed monk is known for his fiery speech and anti-minority stance.</p>

<p>He became involved with right-wing groups from school, going on to work full time with the Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram in Purulia and Bankura districts in the state.</p>

<p>It was at the Ashram that Naba Kumar Sarkar was christened Swami Aseemanand in 1981.&nbsp</p>


The West Bengal unit of the BJP is planning to rope in Hindutva preacher Swami Aseemanand to work for strengthening the party base in the state following his acquittal in the Mecca Masjid blast case earlier this week, a senior party official said Thursday

The West Bengal unit of the BJP is planning to rope in Hindutva preacher Swami Aseemanand to work for strengthening the party base in the state following his acquittal in the Mecca Masjid blast case earlier this week, a senior party official said Thursday. "I have personally known Swami Aseemanand for a long time. I will talk to him and try to bring him to West Bengal so that he can work here. For a long time, he has worked among the tribals in Bengal. He can help us in a lot of ways," BJP state president Dilip Ghosh told PTI. A special anti-terror court on Monday had acquitted the 66-year-old self-proclaimed monk and four others in the 2007 Mecca Masjid blast case, holding that the prosecution failed to prove "even a single allegation" against them. Aseemanand's younger brother, Sushanta Sarkar, is presently the secretary of the BJP's Hooghly unit. Sarkar said he would be happy if his brother returned to the state for work. "Our entire family is dedicated towards the Sangh Parivar. If my brother comes to Bengal and wants to work here, we will be very happy," Sarkar told PTI. Another state BJP leader said although Aseemanand is an apolitical person, the saffron party would welcome him if he is willing to come to Bengal and work here, especially among the tribals. Born as Naba Kumar Sarkar at Kamaarpukar in West Bengal's Hooghly district, Aseemanand completed his graduation in science in 1971. The self-proclaimed monk is known for his fiery speech and anti-minority stance. He became involved with right-wing groups from school, going on to work full time with the Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram in Purulia and Bankura districts in the state. It was at the Ashram that Naba Kumar Sarkar was christened Swami Aseemanand in 1981.

BJP may rope in Swami Aseemanand to work in West Bengal

<p><strong>By SIDHANT SIBAL</strong></p>

<p>India might be one step closer to getting Kim Davy extradited. Denmark's govt will politically back the extradition of Kim Davy, the man Involved in Purulia arms drop case. In an exclusive conversation with WION, the Prime Minister of Denmark Lars Løkke Rasmussen said "Director general of prosecution is looking into it...We have to start the case in legal track and restart cooperation"&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Kim Davy alias Niels Holck was the key conspirator of the 1995 arms drop in Purulia district of West Bengal. In 2011, his govt had taken the decision to extradite him but that was rejected by courts in Denmark. That had hit Denmark-India ties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Narendra Modi had met the PM of Denmark in Sweden on Tuesday on the sidelines of India Nordic summit. During Tuesday's bilateral meet 4 agreements have been agreed to --- 3 in agriculture and one in smart cities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Denmark's PM lauded constructive role being played by India and said that his govt would like to assist PM Modi in achieving his goals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The PM of Denmark also lauded the historical ties between both the countries and said that Copenhagen Delhi ties are 400 years old. India and Denmark have agreed to restart Indo Danish joint commission. The Indian foreign minister will be paying a visit to Denmark soon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian PM was in Sweden for the big India Nordic summit and held talks with all the leaders of all the Nordic countries. Nordic counties are 5 north European countries --Iceland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The development comes at a time when India is increasing its engagements with the Nordics. On Tuesday India and the Nordic countries held the first India - Nordic summit, a new format of dialogue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Nordics are world leaders in innovative technology, renewable energy and being a cashless society.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Denmark can help India in wind energy, dairy, agriculture. On the other hand, India can provide service. Most of the Indians in Nordics are in IT sector and highly skilled job sector.</p>

<p>Indian PM's visit may be only for one day but it is definitely going to make a long-term Impact.&nbsp;</p>


In an exclusive conversation with WION Denmark's PM says Director of General prosecution looking into the case

By SIDHANT SIBAL India might be one step closer to getting Kim Davy extradited. Denmark's govt will politically back the extradition of Kim Davy, the man Involved in Purulia arms drop case. In an exclusive conversation with WION, the Prime Minister of Denmark Lars Løkke Rasmussen said "Director general of prosecution is looking into it...We have to start the case in legal track and restart cooperation" × Kim Davy alias Niels Holck was the key conspirator of the 1995 arms drop in Purulia district of West Bengal. In 2011, his govt had taken the decision to extradite him but that was rejected by courts in Denmark. That had hit Denmark-India ties. PM Narendra Modi had met the PM of Denmark in Sweden on Tuesday on the sidelines of India Nordic summit. During Tuesday's bilateral meet 4 agreements have been agreed to --- 3 in agriculture and one in smart cities. Denmark's PM lauded constructive role being played by India and said that his govt would like to assist PM Modi in achieving his goals. The PM of Denmark also lauded the historical ties between both the countries and said that Copenhagen Delhi ties are 400 years old. India and Denmark have agreed to restart Indo Danish joint commission. The Indian foreign minister will be paying a visit to Denmark soon. The Indian PM was in Sweden for the big India Nordic summit and held talks with all the leaders of all the Nordic countries. Nordic counties are 5 north European countries --Iceland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland. The development comes at a time when India is increasing its engagements with the Nordics. On Tuesday India and the Nordic countries held the first India - Nordic summit, a new format of dialogue. The Nordics are world leaders in innovative technology, renewable energy and being a cashless society. Denmark can help India in wind energy, dairy, agriculture. On the other hand, India can provide service. Most of the Indians in Nordics are in IT sector and highly skilled job sector. Indian PM's visit may be only for one day but it is definitely going to make a long-term Impact.

India may soon get Kim Davy, says Denmark PM Lars Løkke Rasmussen

<p>The stakes seem to be high for the ruling Trinamool Congress in the upcoming West Bengal panchayat polls, as the party leadership feels that gaining a foothold in national politics after the 2019 Lok Sabha election is incumbent on winning the rural heartland. According to senior TMC leaders, the party’s objective to play a major role at the national level can only be successful if it manages to bag the maximum share out of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal.&nbsp</p>

<p>“If we want to win maximum number of seats in Lok Sabha polls, then we have to ensure that we put up a good show in the upcoming rural polls, so that we are ahead of our rivals,” said a senior TMC leader. With nearly 40 of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state being located in villages and semi-urban areas administered by panchayats, an absolute control of the rural bodies is a must for political parties to have an upper hand on rivals in next year’s Lok Sabha polls, feel senior TMC leaders.</p>

<p>“Steering the state from 2011, the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC government has established its credentials on the twin foundation of development and diversity. “People will endorse this in the upcoming panchayat elections. Yes, the journey to Delhi originates in the rural heartland of Bengal,” Derek O’Brien, TMC parliamentary party leader in Rajya Sabha, told PTI. Brien’s views were echoed by his party colleague Sudip Bandyopadhyay, who is of the view that the panchayat polls will be the most important election ahead of Lok Sabha polls. “Panchayat elections resonates the views of the grass-roots and the masses. In villages, people are dependent on their gram panchayats … The activities of elected representatives at panchayats and zilla parishads come as a added benefit for the political parties he or she represents,” Bandyopadhyay told PTI. The elections will be held across 48,650 seats in 3,358 gram panchayats, 9,217 seats at 341 panchayat samitis, and 825 seats at 20 zilla parishads.</p>

<p>Another senior TMC leader came up with an analogy on how results of panchayat polls directly influence the Lok Sabha election in Bengal. “Our victory in South 24 Parganas and East Midnapore zilla parishads in the 2008 panchayat polls had led to the party winning 19 seats in the 2009 Lok Sabha election. The stellar performance in 2013 panchayat polls, when it won the maximum number of zilla parishads, also led TMC to bag 34 Lok Sabha seats in 2014,” he explained. However, he admitted that despite winning so many seats, the party could not have a major role after the 2014 elections, as the BJP managed full majority. “But this time, things will be different from 2014 and TMC will play a defining role after 2019,” the TMC leader said. The TMC leadership has time and again emphasised that it will play a major role on the national level, after next year’s Lok Sabha polls. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had last month said she would try to unite all the anti-BJP forces to defeat the saffron party in the 2019 Lok Sabha election.</p>

<p>The TMC top brass had also met several leaders of various Opposition parties, including UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and TRS chief K C Rao, aiming to cobble up a formidable front against the BJP. Opposition parties cutting across political lines feel that the TMC’s urge to prove its mettle in the panchayat elections in order to find firm footing in the Lok Sabha polls next year, has led to unprecedented violence over filing of nominations for the rural polls. The TMC has denied all such accusations. Displeased with the State Election Commission’s recent decision to cancel its own order to extend the nomination process by a day, the Calcutta High Court had on April 12 put a stay on the ongoing panchayat election process till further instruction. “Because of their ambition to play a major role and to send out a message that TMC is invincible in Bengal so that they be allowed to lead the anti-BJP front, they are looking to win the panchayat polls without any opposition,” state Congress president Adhir Chowdhury said.</p>

<p>Senior BJP leader Mukul Roy, who was once number two in the TMC and been instrumental in its performance in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, feels TMC’s wish to be a major national force will never be fulfilled as the BJP will “decimate” the ruling party in Bengal in the next Lok Sabha election. “The people of Bengal are yearning for a change and BJP will bring that change,” Roy said. State Panchayat Minister and TMC leader Subrata Mukherjee said the party will win the panchayat polls and that it cannot take the onus of failure to file nominations. “How can we take the onus of opposition not being able to file nominations? We can’t provide them with man power to file nominations. The people of Bengal are with TMC. I won’t comment any further as the matter is sub judice,” Mukherjee added.</p>


The stakes seem to be high for the ruling Trinamool Congress in the upcoming West Bengal panchayat polls, as the party leadership feels that gaining a foothold in national politics after the 2019 election is incumbent on winning the rural heartland.

The stakes seem to be high for the ruling Trinamool Congress in the upcoming West Bengal panchayat polls, as the party leadership feels that gaining a foothold in national politics after the 2019 Lok Sabha election is incumbent on winning the rural heartland. According to senior TMC leaders, the party’s objective to play a major role at the national level can only be successful if it manages to bag the maximum share out of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal. “If we want to win maximum number of seats in Lok Sabha polls, then we have to ensure that we put up a good show in the upcoming rural polls, so that we are ahead of our rivals,” said a senior TMC leader. With nearly 40 of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state being located in villages and semi-urban areas administered by panchayats, an absolute control of the rural bodies is a must for political parties to have an upper hand on rivals in next year’s Lok Sabha polls, feel senior TMC leaders. “Steering the state from 2011, the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC government has established its credentials on the twin foundation of development and diversity. “People will endorse this in the upcoming panchayat elections. Yes, the journey to Delhi originates in the rural heartland of Bengal,” Derek O’Brien, TMC parliamentary party leader in Rajya Sabha, told PTI. Brien’s views were echoed by his party colleague Sudip Bandyopadhyay, who is of the view that the panchayat polls will be the most important election ahead of Lok Sabha polls. “Panchayat elections resonates the views of the grass-roots and the masses. In villages, people are dependent on their gram panchayats … The activities of elected representatives at panchayats and zilla parishads come as a added benefit for the political parties he or she represents,” Bandyopadhyay told PTI. The elections will be held across 48,650 seats in 3,358 gram panchayats, 9,217 seats at 341 panchayat samitis, and 825 seats at 20 zilla parishads. Another senior TMC leader came up with an analogy on how results of panchayat polls directly influence the Lok Sabha election in Bengal. “Our victory in South 24 Parganas and East Midnapore zilla parishads in the 2008 panchayat polls had led to the party winning 19 seats in the 2009 Lok Sabha election. The stellar performance in 2013 panchayat polls, when it won the maximum number of zilla parishads, also led TMC to bag 34 Lok Sabha seats in 2014,” he explained. However, he admitted that despite winning so many seats, the party could not have a major role after the 2014 elections, as the BJP managed full majority. “But this time, things will be different from 2014 and TMC will play a defining role after 2019,” the TMC leader said. The TMC leadership has time and again emphasised that it will play a major role on the national level, after next year’s Lok Sabha polls. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had last month said she would try to unite all the anti-BJP forces to defeat the saffron party in the 2019 Lok Sabha election. The TMC top brass had also met several leaders of various Opposition parties, including UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and TRS chief K C Rao, aiming to cobble up a formidable front against the BJP. Opposition parties cutting across political lines feel that the TMC’s urge to prove its mettle in the panchayat elections in order to find firm footing in the Lok Sabha polls next year, has led to unprecedented violence over filing of nominations for the rural polls. The TMC has denied all such accusations. Displeased with the State Election Commission’s recent decision to cancel its own order to extend the nomination process by a day, the Calcutta High Court had on April 12 put a stay on the ongoing panchayat election process till further instruction. “Because of their ambition to play a major role and to send out a message that TMC is invincible in Bengal so that they be allowed to lead the anti-BJP front, they are looking to win the panchayat polls without any opposition,” state Congress president Adhir Chowdhury said. Senior BJP leader Mukul Roy, who was once number two in the TMC and been instrumental in its performance in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, feels TMC’s wish to be a major national force will never be fulfilled as the BJP will “decimate” the ruling party in Bengal in the next Lok Sabha election. “The people of Bengal are yearning for a change and BJP will bring that change,” Roy said. State Panchayat Minister and TMC leader Subrata Mukherjee said the party will win the panchayat polls and that it cannot take the onus of failure to file nominations. “How can we take the onus of opposition not being able to file nominations? We can’t provide them with man power to file nominations. The people of Bengal are with TMC. I won’t comment any further as the matter is sub judice,” Mukherjee added.

Mamata Banerjee’s 2019 dream faces litmus test in West Bengal Panchayat election

<p>Several People complaining severe breathing were admitted to hospital in Uluberia, Howrah district following a chemical gas leak.</p>

<p>According to media reports&nbsptwenty people have been taken to the hospital for a severe breathing problem.</p>

<p>About 100 people also complained burning sensation in their eyes and facing problem in breathing.<br />
&nbsp<br />
Chemical gas leaked from a drum on Sunday while it was being transported to a godown at the Palora area.</p>

<p>The liquid chemical is suspected to be Benzyl chloride. The samples have been sent to a laboratory for testing.</p>

<p>One person has also been arrested in charge of endangering human lives as the Police started investigating the matter.</p>

<p>Report say for now the leakage has been controlled by fire brigade personnel who immediately rushed to the area after receiving information.</p>

<p>Forensic experts will also visit the spot.</p>

<p>Benzyl chloride is a hazardous chemical who turns into gas after coming in contact with the air.</p>


The liquid chemical is suspected to be Benzyl chloride. The samples have been sent to a laboratory for testing

Several People complaining severe breathing were admitted to hospital in Uluberia, Howrah district following a chemical gas leak. According to media reports&nbsptwenty people have been taken to the hospital for a severe breathing problem. About 100 people also complained burning sensation in their eyes and facing problem in breathing. Chemical gas leaked from a drum on Sunday while it was being transported to a godown at the Palora area. The liquid chemical is suspected to be Benzyl chloride. The samples have been sent to a laboratory for testing. One person has also been arrested in charge of endangering human lives as the Police started investigating the matter. Report say for now the leakage has been controlled by fire brigade personnel who immediately rushed to the area after receiving information. Forensic experts will also visit the spot. Benzyl chloride is a hazardous chemical who turns into gas after coming in contact with the air.

West Bengal: Several people admitted to hospital after leak of hazardous chemical

<p>Clashes erupted in different parts of West Bengal ahead of upcoming Panchayat elections in the state.</p>

<p>The clashes broke out between the party members of the Bhartiya Janata Party and Trinamool Congress when some candidates were filing nomination papers for the upcoming elections.</p>

<p>About 25 people were injured in the clashes&nbsp;between the BJP workers and the TMC members during filing of nominations for Panchayat polls in Jalpaiguri.</p>

<p>While a police personnel was injured in the state's Birbhum district.</p>

<p>According to media reports workers in Murshidabad resorted to stone pelting, crude bombs leading to several injuries.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">WATCH Unidentified persons hurled crude bombs at BJP workers in Murshidabad's Jangirpur as they were going to file nomination for Panchayat polls, earlier today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengal</a> <a href="https://t.co/zY17KdzUSd">pic.twitter.com/zY17KdzUSd</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/982240610475114498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Members of the Bhartiya Janata Party also organised a protest against the ruling TMC for turning the "panchayat elections into a farce in the state". Senior BJP leader Mukul Roy also claimed that the TMC was not letting candidates of other parties&nbsp;file their nominations.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Clash between BJP workers and Security personnel in West Bengal's Birbhum, one policeman injured <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengal</a> <a href="https://t.co/kwXwNrSWwW">pic.twitter.com/kwXwNrSWwW</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/982201590059642881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">More than 25 people injured in a clash between TMC and BJP workers during filing of nominations for Panchayat polls in Jalpaiguri <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengal</a> <a href="https://t.co/cUI55Vmd5D">pic.twitter.com/cUI55Vmd5D</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/982199970240512000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;BJP State Secretary Shyamapada Mondal was allegedly attacked&nbsp;by members of the Trinamool Congress in the state's Bankura district.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Bankura: BJP State Secretary Shyamapada Mondal attacked, allegedly by TMC workers. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengal</a> <a href="https://t.co/RSgwJbHYCp">pic.twitter.com/RSgwJbHYCp</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/982186496982581255?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The clashes broke out between the party members of the Bhartiya Janata Party and Trinamool Congress when some candidates were filing nomination papers for the upcoming elections

Clashes erupted in different parts of West Bengal ahead of upcoming Panchayat elections in the state. The clashes broke out between the party members of the Bhartiya Janata Party and Trinamool Congress when some candidates were filing nomination papers for the upcoming elections. About 25 people were injured in the clashes between the BJP workers and the TMC members during filing of nominations for Panchayat polls in Jalpaiguri. While a police personnel was injured in the state's Birbhum district. According to media reports workers in Murshidabad resorted to stone pelting, crude bombs leading to several injuries. WATCH Unidentified persons hurled crude bombs at BJP workers in Murshidabad's Jangirpur as they were going to file nomination for Panchayat polls, earlier today. #WestBengal pic.twitter.com/zY17KdzUSd — ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2018 × Members of the Bhartiya Janata Party also organised a protest against the ruling TMC for turning the "panchayat elections into a farce in the state". Senior BJP leader Mukul Roy also claimed that the TMC was not letting candidates of other parties file their nominations. Clash between BJP workers and Security personnel in West Bengal's Birbhum, one policeman injured #WestBengal pic.twitter.com/kwXwNrSWwW — ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2018 × More than 25 people injured in a clash between TMC and BJP workers during filing of nominations for Panchayat polls in Jalpaiguri #WestBengal pic.twitter.com/cUI55Vmd5D — ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2018 × BJP State Secretary Shyamapada Mondal was allegedly attacked by members of the Trinamool Congress in the state's Bankura district. #WATCH Bankura: BJP State Secretary Shyamapada Mondal attacked, allegedly by TMC workers. #WestBengal pic.twitter.com/RSgwJbHYCp — ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2018 ×

BJP, TMC workers clash in parts of West Bengal ahead of panchayat polls

<p>The Supreme Court today said it will pass orders on April 9 on the BJP West Bengal unit's plea alleging that its candidates are not being allowed to file their nomination papers for the panchayat polls next month.</p>

<p>In its plea, BJP sought an extension of the last date of nomination, which is April 9, and online availability of nomination papers.</p>

<p>A bench of Justices R K Agrawal and A M Sapre said, "We are reserving verdict for April 9."</p>

<p>During the hearing, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the West Bengal unit of the BJP, said democracy is being murdered in the state as candidates are not being allowed to file their nomination papers and there is large-scale violence.</p>

<p>The West Bengal panchayat elections are scheduled to be held on May 1, 3, and 5 and the votes are to be counted on May 8.</p>

<p>According to the notification, the last date of filing nominations is April 9 and the last date of scrutiny of the nominations is April 11.</p>

<p>The plea alleged that block development officers, appointed as assistant panchayat electoral registration officers by the West Bengal State Election Commission, are refusing to give nomination forms to BJP candidates.</p>

<p>The West Bengal State Election Commission is the authority tasked with superintendence, direction and control of the preparation of electoral rolls for, and the conduct of, all elections to panchayats and municipalities.</p>


In its plea, BJP sought an extension of the last date of nomination, which is April 9, and online availability of nomination papers

The Supreme Court today said it will pass orders on April 9 on the BJP West Bengal unit's plea alleging that its candidates are not being allowed to file their nomination papers for the panchayat polls next month. In its plea, BJP sought an extension of the last date of nomination, which is April 9, and online availability of nomination papers. A bench of Justices R K Agrawal and A M Sapre said, "We are reserving verdict for April 9." During the hearing, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the West Bengal unit of the BJP, said democracy is being murdered in the state as candidates are not being allowed to file their nomination papers and there is large-scale violence. The West Bengal panchayat elections are scheduled to be held on May 1, 3, and 5 and the votes are to be counted on May 8. According to the notification, the last date of filing nominations is April 9 and the last date of scrutiny of the nominations is April 11. The plea alleged that block development officers, appointed as assistant panchayat electoral registration officers by the West Bengal State Election Commission, are refusing to give nomination forms to BJP candidates. The West Bengal State Election Commission is the authority tasked with superintendence, direction and control of the preparation of electoral rolls for, and the conduct of, all elections to panchayats and municipalities.

West Bengal panchayat polls: Supreme Court to pass order on BJP's plea

<p>As violence continued unabated in Asansol-Raniganj area of West Bengal, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Monday issued a notice to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) government.</p>

<p>NHRC has also asked its Director General (Investigation) to depute a team for spot inquiry and called for a detailed report in the matter within four weeks.</p>

<p>Following the violence in the Asansol-Raniganj area, many people have been forced to leave their houses.</p>

<p>Several people have died a police officer has also sustained grievous injuries and the situation is reported to be still out of control.</p>

<p>Expressing serious concern over the situation, the Commission has issued notices to the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary and Director General of Police, West Bengal in connection with the matter.</p>

<p>According to the media reports, the people, who dialled No. 100 to seek police assistance, have stated that no police personnel came to help them.</p>

<p>The unruly mob has destroyed the public and private properties.</p>

<p>There are many families from different communities, as mentioned in the news report, who have lost everything in the ongoing violence.</p>

<p>It is also stated in the news reports that according to many victims, the police just stood there for a while and then vanished when the crowd attacked the victims.</p>

<p>However, reportedly, the Commissioner of Police of Asansol has stated that the situation is under control and loudspeakers are being used to spread awareness against the rumours and in the sensitive areas, a large number of police personnel have been deployed.&nbsp</p>


NHRC has also asked its Director General (Investigation) to depute a team for spot inquiry and called for a detailed report in the matter within four weeks

As violence continued unabated in Asansol-Raniganj area of West Bengal, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Monday issued a notice to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) government. NHRC has also asked its Director General (Investigation) to depute a team for spot inquiry and called for a detailed report in the matter within four weeks. Following the violence in the Asansol-Raniganj area, many people have been forced to leave their houses. Several people have died a police officer has also sustained grievous injuries and the situation is reported to be still out of control. Expressing serious concern over the situation, the Commission has issued notices to the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary and Director General of Police, West Bengal in connection with the matter. According to the media reports, the people, who dialled No. 100 to seek police assistance, have stated that no police personnel came to help them. The unruly mob has destroyed the public and private properties. There are many families from different communities, as mentioned in the news report, who have lost everything in the ongoing violence. It is also stated in the news reports that according to many victims, the police just stood there for a while and then vanished when the crowd attacked the victims. However, reportedly, the Commissioner of Police of Asansol has stated that the situation is under control and loudspeakers are being used to spread awareness against the rumours and in the sensitive areas, a large number of police personnel have been deployed.

West Bengal violence: NHRC issues notice to Mamata Government

<p>Congress president Rahul Gandhi continued his attack on BJP/RSS on Sunday. This time the Congress leader attacked Centre over Asansol violence.</p>

<p>"After losing their sons due to hatred and communalism, messages from Yashpal Saxena and Imam Rashidi shows that love will always triumph over hatred in India," he tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">अपने बेटों को नफरत और सम्प्रदायिकता के कारण खोने के बाद यशपाल सक्सेना और इमाम रशीदी के संदेश ये दिखाते हैं कि हिन्दुस्तान में हमेशा प्यार नफरत को हराएगा।<br />
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कांग्रेस की नींव भी करुणा और आपसी भाईचारे पर टिकी है। हम नफरत फैलाने वाली BJP/RSS की विचारधारा को जीतने नहीं देंगे। <a href="https://t.co/5smEqBm8gK">pic.twitter.com/5smEqBm8gK</a></p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/980039094393810944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>"The foundation of Congress is also on compassion and mutual brotherhood. We will not allow the hatred spreading BJP / RSS ideology to win."</p>

<p>Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/violence-escalates-in-asansol-west-bengal-section-144-imposed-127231">Violence escalates in Asansol, West Bengal, section 144 imposed</a></p>

<p>The Imam of a mosque told congregation in Asansol, West Bengal that he would leave the town if anyone retaliates against his son's death in Ram Navami communal clash.</p>

<p>Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/next-up-from-pm-book-on-stress-relief-after-lives-destroyed-by-paper-leaks-rahul-gandhi-127314">Next up from PM, </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/next-up-from-pm-book-on-stress-relief-after-lives-destroyed-by-paper-leaks-rahul-gandhi-127314">book</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/next-up-from-pm-book-on-stress-relief-after-lives-destroyed-by-paper-leaks-rahul-gandhi-127314"> on stress relief after lives destroyed by paper leaks says Rahul Gandhi</a></p>

<p>A 16-year-old Sibtualla Rashidi, Imam's son went missing from Tuesday during the violence later Police recovered his body on Wednesday.</p>

<p>In&nbsp;the police investigation, his father was informed that his son was beaten to death by some unidentified miscreants.</p>

<p>Following the clashes in West Bengal during the Ram Navami celebrations, section 144 has been imposed in parts of the state including Asansol and Raniganj.</p>

<p>The section will remain in effect till April 4.</p>

<p>The police have also restricted any rally in the area for Hanuman Jayanti on Saturday.</p>

<p>More police personnel have been deployed in the area and internet services have been disrupted to pacify the growing violence in Asansol and other parts of Bengal.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Congress President Rahul Gandhi continued his attack on Bharatiya Janata Party and Rashtriya Swayam Sevak ideology as he tweeted on Asansol violence

Congress president Rahul Gandhi continued his attack on BJP/RSS on Sunday. This time the Congress leader attacked Centre over Asansol violence. "After losing their sons due to hatred and communalism, messages from Yashpal Saxena and Imam Rashidi shows that love will always triumph over hatred in India," he tweeted. अपने बेटों को नफरत और सम्प्रदायिकता के कारण खोने के बाद यशपाल सक्सेना और इमाम रशीदी के संदेश ये दिखाते हैं कि हिन्दुस्तान में हमेशा प्यार नफरत को हराएगा। कांग्रेस की नींव भी करुणा और आपसी भाईचारे पर टिकी है। हम नफरत फैलाने वाली BJP/RSS की विचारधारा को जीतने नहीं देंगे। pic.twitter.com/5smEqBm8gK — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) March 31, 2018 × "The foundation of Congress is also on compassion and mutual brotherhood. We will not allow the hatred spreading BJP / RSS ideology to win." Also read: Violence escalates in Asansol, West Bengal, section 144 imposed The Imam of a mosque told congregation in Asansol, West Bengal that he would leave the town if anyone retaliates against his son's death in Ram Navami communal clash. Also read: Next up from PM, book on stress relief after lives destroyed by paper leaks says Rahul Gandhi A 16-year-old Sibtualla Rashidi, Imam's son went missing from Tuesday during the violence later Police recovered his body on Wednesday. In the police investigation, his father was informed that his son was beaten to death by some unidentified miscreants. Following the clashes in West Bengal during the Ram Navami celebrations, section 144 has been imposed in parts of the state including Asansol and Raniganj. The section will remain in effect till April 4. The police have also restricted any rally in the area for Hanuman Jayanti on Saturday. More police personnel have been deployed in the area and internet services have been disrupted to pacify the growing violence in Asansol and other parts of Bengal.

We will not allow hatred spreading BJP/RSS ideology to win: Rahul Gandhi

<p>Following the clashes in West Bengal during the Ram Navami celebrations, section 144 has been imposed in parts of the state including Asansol and Raniganj.</p>

<p>The section will be imposed till April 4.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Visuals</a> from Asansol: Section 144 still imposed in view of clashes during <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RamNavami?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RamNavami</a> procession, internet services continue to be suspended. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengal</a> <a href="https://t.co/Xa13EmPBOY">pic.twitter.com/Xa13EmPBOY</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/979619945792274432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Also, the police have restricted&nbsp;any rally in the area for Hanuman&nbsp;Jayanti on Saturday.</p>

<p>More police personnel have been deployed in the area and internet services have been disrupted to pacify the growing violence in Asansol and other parts of Bengal.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, BJP leader Babul Supriyo&nbsp;has filed a counter-FIR in response to the one lodged against him for assaulting a police officer.</p>

<p>The leader claimed that he was not allowed to enter his "Own" constituency.</p>

<p>He further said that though he was restricted entry into his constituency, the TMC councillors moved freely around the area.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">4/5:Check this vdo too?Police file cases against me cuz I visit the Victims in my OWN constituency where victims belong 2 ONLY one community?Is that a crime in Bengal?Everytym the same story!!Police wil push&pull me&stop me frm talking 2 people cuz they r spelling the truth out? <a href="https://t.co/CjL0osyjq6">pic.twitter.com/CjL0osyjq6</a></p>
— Babul Supriyo (@SuPriyoBabul) <a href="https://twitter.com/SuPriyoBabul/status/979523427903115266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">5/5:TMC councillorS can move around freely in an area&if I try 2 get down frm the car I am a criminal who needs 2 b engulfed by RAF, wrapped tight by Cop-hands, TOUCHING me bodily?Didi probably forgot her struggle against CPIM atrocity•She JUST CANNOT STOP ME FROM DOING MY DUTY <a href="https://t.co/ZcSid4TXXZ">pic.twitter.com/ZcSid4TXXZ</a></p>
— Babul Supriyo (@SuPriyoBabul) <a href="https://twitter.com/SuPriyoBabul/status/979524310581817346?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I wil not•Wil take them to court• I have already filed a FIR against one Police officer who assaulted me, pushed&threatened me•Why encircle me with RAF?What ws RAF doing when the victims’ were beaten, their houses burnt down&looted?Shall continue 2 fight against this injustice <a href="https://t.co/U5389r9wtQ">https://t.co/U5389r9wtQ</a></p>
— Babul Supriyo (@SuPriyoBabul) <a href="https://twitter.com/SuPriyoBabul/status/979575013555822592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The clashes that erupted in West Bengal during the Ram Navami have led to the death of five people so far.</p>

<p>The clashes fueled after the ruling party Trinamool Congress and opposition Bharatiya Janata party took out rallies across the state on Sunday to celebrate Ram Navami festival.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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More police personnel have been deployed in the area and internet services have been disrupted to pacify the growing violence in Asansol and other parts of Bengal

Following the clashes in West Bengal during the Ram Navami celebrations, section 144 has been imposed in parts of the state including Asansol and Raniganj. The section will be imposed till April 4. #Visuals from Asansol: Section 144 still imposed in view of clashes during #RamNavami procession, internet services continue to be suspended. #WestBengal pic.twitter.com/Xa13EmPBOY — ANI (@ANI) March 30, 2018 × Also, the police have restricted any rally in the area for Hanuman Jayanti on Saturday. More police personnel have been deployed in the area and internet services have been disrupted to pacify the growing violence in Asansol and other parts of Bengal. Meanwhile, BJP leader Babul Supriyo has filed a counter-FIR in response to the one lodged against him for assaulting a police officer. The leader claimed that he was not allowed to enter his "Own" constituency. He further said that though he was restricted entry into his constituency, the TMC councillors moved freely around the area. 4/5:Check this vdo too?Police file cases against me cuz I visit the Victims in my OWN constituency where victims belong 2 ONLY one community?Is that a crime in Bengal?Everytym the same story!!Police wil push&pull me&stop me frm talking 2 people cuz they r spelling the truth out? pic.twitter.com/CjL0osyjq6 — Babul Supriyo (@SuPriyoBabul) March 30, 2018 × 5/5:TMC councillorS can move around freely in an area&if I try 2 get down frm the car I am a criminal who needs 2 b engulfed by RAF, wrapped tight by Cop-hands, TOUCHING me bodily?Didi probably forgot her struggle against CPIM atrocity•She JUST CANNOT STOP ME FROM DOING MY DUTY pic.twitter.com/ZcSid4TXXZ — Babul Supriyo (@SuPriyoBabul) March 30, 2018 × I wil not•Wil take them to court• I have already filed a FIR against one Police officer who assaulted me, pushed&threatened me•Why encircle me with RAF?What ws RAF doing when the victims’ were beaten, their houses burnt down&looted?Shall continue 2 fight against this injustice https://t.co/U5389r9wtQ — Babul Supriyo (@SuPriyoBabul) March 30, 2018 × The clashes that erupted in West Bengal during the Ram Navami have led to the death of five people so far. The clashes fueled after the ruling party Trinamool Congress and opposition Bharatiya Janata party took out rallies across the state on Sunday to celebrate Ram Navami festival.

Violence escalates in Asansol, West Bengal, section 144 imposed

<p>Union Minister and singer Babul Supriyo got booked on Wednesday in Asansol for allegedly violating section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure.</p>

<p>Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-1-dead-in-clash-between-locals-police-on-ram-navami-37031">1 dead in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-1-dead-in-clash-between-locals-police-on-ram-navami-37031">clash</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-1-dead-in-clash-between-locals-police-on-ram-navami-37031"> between locals, police on Ram Navami</a></p>

<p>An FIR has also been filed in Asansol North Police station for allegedly assaulting a senior IPS officer Rupesh Kumar.</p>

<p>From Wednesday Section 144 has been imposed in Asansol --&nbspBabul Supriyo's constituency -- after the continuous tense situation following the Ram Navami procession in the state.</p>

<p>According to reports, Babul Supriyo was stopped by police while he was driving through Kalyanpur to reach Asansol. Following an argument between him and police, Supriyo assaulted an IPS officer.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a counter FIR has also been filed by the minister against the IPS officer for assaulting him despite the warning of to not 'touch him physically'.</p>

<p>Supriyo was going there to take the stock of the situation which arrived from the violence in the state.</p>

<p>Reports say that he was barred from entering the area by police citing security reasons.</p>

<p>Internet services were also barred in Asansol and Ranigunj by the state government.</p>

<p>According to news reports, the internet services restrictions will remain in effect till March 30.</p>

<p>One villager was killed in a clash between locals and police during a Ram Navami procession in Beldi village in Purulia, West Bengal.&nbsp</p>

<p>Four people were also injured in the clash.&nbsp</p>

<p>The ruling party Trinamool Congress and opposition Bharatiya Janata party took out rallies across the state on Sunday to celebrate Ram Navami festival fuelling communal tension.</p>


An FIR has also been filed in Asansol North Police station for allegedly assaulting a senior IPS officer Rupesh Kumar

Union Minister and singer Babul Supriyo got booked on Wednesday in Asansol for allegedly violating section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. Also read: 1 dead in clash between locals, police on Ram Navami An FIR has also been filed in Asansol North Police station for allegedly assaulting a senior IPS officer Rupesh Kumar. From Wednesday Section 144 has been imposed in Asansol --&nbspBabul Supriyo's constituency -- after the continuous tense situation following the Ram Navami procession in the state. According to reports, Babul Supriyo was stopped by police while he was driving through Kalyanpur to reach Asansol. Following an argument between him and police, Supriyo assaulted an IPS officer. Meanwhile, a counter FIR has also been filed by the minister against the IPS officer for assaulting him despite the warning of to not 'touch him physically'. Supriyo was going there to take the stock of the situation which arrived from the violence in the state. Reports say that he was barred from entering the area by police citing security reasons. Internet services were also barred in Asansol and Ranigunj by the state government. According to news reports, the internet services restrictions will remain in effect till March 30. One villager was killed in a clash between locals and police during a Ram Navami procession in Beldi village in Purulia, West Bengal. Four people were also injured in the clash. The ruling party Trinamool Congress and opposition Bharatiya Janata party took out rallies across the state on Sunday to celebrate Ram Navami festival fuelling communal tension.

West Bengal: Babul Supriyo booked for assaulting IPS officer

<p>A Ram Navami pandal was vandalised on Saturday evening by unidentified miscreants in Bardhman district of West Bengal.</p>

<p>The pandal was set up by Bhartiya Janata Party members who have alleged that it was attacked by workers of Trinamool Congress.</p>

<p>Four persons are reported to be injured in the incident.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">West Bengal: 4 injured after a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RamaNavami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RamaNavami</a> pandal set up by BJP workers was attacked by miscreants in Bardhaman last night. BJP alleged that TMC was behind the incident. Police investigation underway. <a href="https://t.co/WBP4LrrmJ4">pic.twitter.com/WBP4LrrmJ4</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/977764065354317824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>A police investigation is also underway.</p>

<p>Security has also been stepped up in the region following the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The BJP has further planned rallies across the state to celebrate the festival fuelling the tension in the state.</p>

<p>In Kolkata also several rallies were organised reportedly by members of the Sangh Parivar.</p>

<p>Following the rally announcement made by BJP workers, TMC had also announced that it would organise Ram Navami in several districts as the&nbsp;festival is not very popular in the region.</p>

<p>So far no reports of any violence have been reported from any district.</p>

<p>West Bengal chief minister Mamta Banerjee had also instructed police to no permit any organisation to hold processions displaying arms during Ram Navami.</p>

<p>However, news agency ANI reported Ram Mandir Mahotsav Samiti was seen brandishing swords in a procession at Siliguri, West Bengal.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ram Mandir Mahotsav Samiti took out a procession on the occasion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RamNavami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RamNavami</a> where people were seen brandishing swords, in West Bengal&#39;s Siliguri <a href="https://t.co/UZudBIo0Hn">pic.twitter.com/UZudBIo0Hn</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/977827172902633472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


The pandal was set up by Bhartiya Janata Party members who have alleged that it was attacked by workers of Trinamool Congress

A Ram Navami pandal was vandalised on Saturday evening by unidentified miscreants in Bardhman district of West Bengal. The pandal was set up by Bhartiya Janata Party members who have alleged that it was attacked by workers of Trinamool Congress. Four persons are reported to be injured in the incident. West Bengal: 4 injured after a #RamaNavami pandal set up by BJP workers was attacked by miscreants in Bardhaman last night. BJP alleged that TMC was behind the incident. Police investigation underway. pic.twitter.com/WBP4LrrmJ4 — ANI (@ANI) March 25, 2018 × A police investigation is also underway. Security has also been stepped up in the region following the incident. The BJP has further planned rallies across the state to celebrate the festival fuelling the tension in the state. In Kolkata also several rallies were organised reportedly by members of the Sangh Parivar. Following the rally announcement made by BJP workers, TMC had also announced that it would organise Ram Navami in several districts as the festival is not very popular in the region. So far no reports of any violence have been reported from any district. West Bengal chief minister Mamta Banerjee had also instructed police to no permit any organisation to hold processions displaying arms during Ram Navami. However, news agency ANI reported Ram Mandir Mahotsav Samiti was seen brandishing swords in a procession at Siliguri, West Bengal. Ram Mandir Mahotsav Samiti took out a procession on the occasion of #RamNavami where people were seen brandishing swords, in West Bengal's Siliguri pic.twitter.com/UZudBIo0Hn — ANI (@ANI) March 25, 2018 ×

West Bengal: Ram Navami pandals vandalised, BJP accuses TMC

<p>One villager has been killed in a clash between locals and police during a Ram Navami procession in Beldi village in Purulia, West Bengal.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">One villager killed, around four injured following a clash between locals &amp; police during a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RamNavami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RamNavami</a> procession in Purulia&#39;s Beldi; police personnel also injured; visuals from hospital in Purulia <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengal</a> <a href="https://t.co/vuaTUOehwN">pic.twitter.com/vuaTUOehwN</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/977875507701313536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Four people were also injured in the clash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ruling party Trinamool Congress and opposition Bharatiya Janata party took out rallies across the state on Sunday to celebrate Ram Navami festival fuelling communal tension.</p>

<p>The BJP party has reportedly organised rallies across the state stating it is a step towards &quot;uniting the Hindus&quot;&nbsp;of the state.</p>

<p>Countering this, the TMC also organised rallies in various parts of the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Police have also increased the security in the region following the clash.</p>

<p>Last week chief minister Mamata Banerjee had instructed police to not permit any organisation to hold processions displaying arms during Ram Navami.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, various right-wing groups were also seen brandishing swords in a procession in the state.</p>

<p>In a procession taken out by the Ram Navami Janmo Maha Utsab Committee, people were also seen riding bikes without helmets. Five people were also seen riding one bike.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">People seen riding bikes without helmets in a procession took out on the occasion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RamNavami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RamNavami</a> by Ram Navami Janmo Maha Utsab Committee in Siliguri; five people seen riding on one bike <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengal</a> <a href="https://t.co/nxootUtEsC">pic.twitter.com/nxootUtEsC</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/977883461469048832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Party chief of BJP&#39;s Bengal unit, Dilip Ghosh was also seen brandishing swords during the rally in Kharagpur, West Bengal.</p>

<p>Ghosh called this a tradition to conduct procession with weapons.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Their is a tradition of holding <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RamNavami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RamNavami</a> procession with weapons in Kharagpur.Ram iss desh ke purwaj hain. Hindu, musalmaan, isayi sabhi ke purwaj hain,Ram dharmik purush nahi the woh rajneetik purush aur raja the toh unke saath kya virodh hai?:Dilip Ghosh,West Bengal BJP chief <a href="https://t.co/OEeQJKFhx2">pic.twitter.com/OEeQJKFhx2</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/977884098655064064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


The ruling party Trinamool Congress and opposition Bharatiya Janata party took out rallies across the state on Sunday to celebrate Ram Navami festival fuelling communal tension

One villager has been killed in a clash between locals and police during a Ram Navami procession in Beldi village in Purulia, West Bengal. One villager killed, around four injured following a clash between locals & police during a #RamNavami procession in Purulia's Beldi; police personnel also injured; visuals from hospital in Purulia #WestBengal pic.twitter.com/vuaTUOehwN — ANI (@ANI) March 25, 2018 × Four people were also injured in the clash. The ruling party Trinamool Congress and opposition Bharatiya Janata party took out rallies across the state on Sunday to celebrate Ram Navami festival fuelling communal tension. The BJP party has reportedly organised rallies across the state stating it is a step towards "uniting the Hindus" of the state. Countering this, the TMC also organised rallies in various parts of the state. Police have also increased the security in the region following the clash. Last week chief minister Mamata Banerjee had instructed police to not permit any organisation to hold processions displaying arms during Ram Navami. Meanwhile, various right-wing groups were also seen brandishing swords in a procession in the state. In a procession taken out by the Ram Navami Janmo Maha Utsab Committee, people were also seen riding bikes without helmets. Five people were also seen riding one bike. People seen riding bikes without helmets in a procession took out on the occasion of #RamNavami by Ram Navami Janmo Maha Utsab Committee in Siliguri; five people seen riding on one bike #WestBengal pic.twitter.com/nxootUtEsC — ANI (@ANI) March 25, 2018 × Party chief of BJP's Bengal unit, Dilip Ghosh was also seen brandishing swords during the rally in Kharagpur, West Bengal. Ghosh called this a tradition to conduct procession with weapons. Their is a tradition of holding #RamNavami procession with weapons in Kharagpur.Ram iss desh ke purwaj hain. Hindu, musalmaan, isayi sabhi ke purwaj hain,Ram dharmik purush nahi the woh rajneetik purush aur raja the toh unke saath kya virodh hai?:Dilip Ghosh,West Bengal BJP chief pic.twitter.com/OEeQJKFhx2 — ANI (@ANI) March 25, 2018 ×

West Bengal: 1 dead in clash between locals, police on Ram Navami

<p>Union Minister for Social Justice Thawar Chand Gehlot on Wednesday said West Bengal has the highest number of beggars and vagrants in India, according to news agency ANI.</p>

<p>The country in total has over four lakh beggars, with the highest 81,000 beggars in West Bengal, while Lakshadweep merely has two vagrants.</p>

<p>At least 4,13,670 beggars reside in India, which consists of 2,21,673 males and 1,91,997 females, the report further said.</p>

<p>Gehlot in a written reply to Lok Sabha quoted a 2011 census and mentioned that Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh stood at second and third positions, with 65,835 and 30,218 beggars respectively.</p>

<p>The union territories have the least number of beggars.</p>

<p>As per the government report, there are only two beggars in Lakshadweep, while Dadra Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu and the Andaman and Nicobar islands have 19, 22 and 56 vagrants respectively.</p>

<p>Amongst the UT&#39;s New Delhi and Chandigarh have the largest numbers of beggars. In the national capital, there are 2,187 beggars and whereas the city beautiful homes 121.</p>


Lakshadweep has the lowest number of panhandlers — only 2

Union Minister for Social Justice Thawar Chand Gehlot on Wednesday said West Bengal has the highest number of beggars and vagrants in India, according to news agency ANI. The country in total has over four lakh beggars, with the highest 81,000 beggars in West Bengal, while Lakshadweep merely has two vagrants. At least 4,13,670 beggars reside in India, which consists of 2,21,673 males and 1,91,997 females, the report further said. Gehlot in a written reply to Lok Sabha quoted a 2011 census and mentioned that Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh stood at second and third positions, with 65,835 and 30,218 beggars respectively. The union territories have the least number of beggars. As per the government report, there are only two beggars in Lakshadweep, while Dadra Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu and the Andaman and Nicobar islands have 19, 22 and 56 vagrants respectively. Amongst the UT's New Delhi and Chandigarh have the largest numbers of beggars. In the national capital, there are 2,187 beggars and whereas the city beautiful homes 121.

Over 4 lakh beggars in India, West Bengal tops chart with 81,000

<p>West Bengal Education Minister Partha Chatterjee on Wednesday said that the state government will ask the management of a reputed girls school in the city whether it had secured written admission from 10 students that they had indulged in lesbianism.</p>

<p>A section of the media had reported that the school had forced written undertakings from 10 of its students on Monday that they had indulged in lesbianism in a classroom.</p>

<p>The school&#39;s move had triggered protests from guardians.</p>

<p>Chattterjee told reporters here he had never come across reports in the past. &quot;We are not treating the issue lightly. We had not come across such reports at educational institutions in past ... If such an incident (lesbianism) had really taken place that will be against the ethos of Bengal.</p>

<p>&quot;I will ask the school management what prompted them to seek such an undertaking. I will also want to know why the same school is getting embroiled in controversies repeatedly,&quot; the minister said referring to the arrest of one of its non-teaching male staff on the charge of sexually abusing a class nine student on February nine.</p>

<p>The school authorities had told reporters earlier that some of the students had complained against the 10 students for indulging in improper behaviour.</p>

<p>&quot;As the 10 students admitted it verbally we asked them to give it in writing. They complied,&quot; a school spokesperson had said.</p>

<p>Some of the guardians trashed the claims and alleged that the school authorities had extracted the undertaking from the girls by pressurising them.<br />
The guardians had demonstrated in front of the school gates against its authorities.&nbsp;</p>


A section of the media had reported that the school had forced written undertakings from 10 of its students on Monday that they had indulged in lesbianism in a classroom.

West Bengal Education Minister Partha Chatterjee on Wednesday said that the state government will ask the management of a reputed girls school in the city whether it had secured written admission from 10 students that they had indulged in lesbianism. A section of the media had reported that the school had forced written undertakings from 10 of its students on Monday that they had indulged in lesbianism in a classroom. The school's move had triggered protests from guardians. Chattterjee told reporters here he had never come across reports in the past. "We are not treating the issue lightly. We had not come across such reports at educational institutions in past ... If such an incident (lesbianism) had really taken place that will be against the ethos of Bengal. "I will ask the school management what prompted them to seek such an undertaking. I will also want to know why the same school is getting embroiled in controversies repeatedly," the minister said referring to the arrest of one of its non-teaching male staff on the charge of sexually abusing a class nine student on February nine. The school authorities had told reporters earlier that some of the students had complained against the 10 students for indulging in improper behaviour. "As the 10 students admitted it verbally we asked them to give it in writing. They complied," a school spokesperson had said. Some of the guardians trashed the claims and alleged that the school authorities had extracted the undertaking from the girls by pressurising them. The guardians had demonstrated in front of the school gates against its authorities.

Lesbianism against ethos of Bengal: State education minister

<p>In a disturbing incident in Bengal, a girl was brutally gang-raped in South Dinajpur.</p>

<p>The 18-year-old was abducted by six to seven people and gang-raped with such brutality that even her genitals were pulled out.</p>

<p>The girl had at the time been returning from a local fair at Kushmandi village. She was left to die after the assault on her.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She was however spotted by some locals who took her to the nearest hospital.</p>

<p>The girl is in critical condition and has been referred to Malda Medical College.</p>

<p>Police have recorded her statement and so far one person has been arrested and one has detained.</p>

<p>Further investigations are underway.</p>


The girl was abducted by six to seven people

In a disturbing incident in Bengal, a girl was brutally gang-raped in South Dinajpur. The 18-year-old was abducted by six to seven people and gang-raped with such brutality that even her genitals were pulled out. The girl had at the time been returning from a local fair at Kushmandi village. She was left to die after the assault on her. She was however spotted by some locals who took her to the nearest hospital. The girl is in critical condition and has been referred to Malda Medical College. Police have recorded her statement and so far one person has been arrested and one has detained. Further investigations are underway.

Another Nirbhaya in Bengal: 18-year-old gang-raped, genitals pulled out

<p>Two videos purportedly shot by Shambhu Lal Raigar, an accused in a murder case, from inside a jail here have gone viral, wherein he claims threat to his life from an inmate and justifies his killing of a labourer from West Bengal over &quot;love jihad&quot;.</p>

<p>Raigar, who is lodged in the Central Jail here after he hacked and burnt to death Mohammad Afrazul from West Bengal in December last year, named the inmate as Vasudev, an accused in the NDPS Act.</p>

<p>Vasudev hails from West Bengal, claimed Raigar.</p>

<p>In one of the videos, Raigar claims that the issue of &quot;love jihad&quot; has become &quot;serious&quot; and accuses the West Bengal government of not doing enough about it.</p>

<p>Rajasthan Home Minister Gulab Chand Kataria said they were investigating how Raigar got access to a mobile phone inside the jail.</p>

<p>&quot;It would be looked into how Raigar got access to a mobile phone and how he made the videos. The police have registered an FIR and are investigating the matter,&quot; he said.</p>

<p>The minister said that action against those guilty in the matter would be taken after the investigation. Vasudev has been shifted to another cell for Raigar&#39;s safety, he said.</p>

<p>&quot;A separate FIR has been lodged and the search is on,&quot; Kataria told reporters in the Assembly.</p>

<p>Raigar had killed Afrazul while, in a video, ranting against &quot;love jihad&quot;, a term used by sections of Hindu activists to describe marriages between Hindu women and Muslim men.</p>

<p>In the latest video, Raigar said he was &quot;infuriated&quot; over a &quot;jihadist comment&quot;, targeting Hindu women, and that was why he had killed Afrazul.</p>

<p>The Jodhpur Central Jail administration said it had launched an &quot;intense search operation&quot; to find out how Raigar was able to make the videos using a cell phone.</p>

<p>According to a preliminary investigation, Raigar could have used the cell phone of another inmate, but the jail authorities have failed to recover a mobile from the said inmate.</p>

<p>Jail Superintendent Vikram Singh said they were investigating the matter and had also reviewed the security of Raigar.</p>

<p>Singh said the presence of mobile phones inside the jail was a &quot;serious matter&quot; and added that the prison authorities were trying to find out how the phones were making their way into the prison.</p>

<p>Raigar was arrested from Rajsamand district of Rajasthan.</p>

<p>His act of killing Afrazul and latter filming the act with the help of his teenage nephew had created a nationwide outrage.</p>


Rajasthan Home Minister Gulab Chand Kataria said they were investigating how Raigar got hold of a mobile phone inside jail

Two videos purportedly shot by Shambhu Lal Raigar, an accused in a murder case, from inside a jail here have gone viral, wherein he claims threat to his life from an inmate and justifies his killing of a labourer from West Bengal over "love jihad". Raigar, who is lodged in the Central Jail here after he hacked and burnt to death Mohammad Afrazul from West Bengal in December last year, named the inmate as Vasudev, an accused in the NDPS Act. Vasudev hails from West Bengal, claimed Raigar. In one of the videos, Raigar claims that the issue of "love jihad" has become "serious" and accuses the West Bengal government of not doing enough about it. Rajasthan Home Minister Gulab Chand Kataria said they were investigating how Raigar got access to a mobile phone inside the jail. "It would be looked into how Raigar got access to a mobile phone and how he made the videos. The police have registered an FIR and are investigating the matter," he said. The minister said that action against those guilty in the matter would be taken after the investigation. Vasudev has been shifted to another cell for Raigar's safety, he said. "A separate FIR has been lodged and the search is on," Kataria told reporters in the Assembly. Raigar had killed Afrazul while, in a video, ranting against "love jihad", a term used by sections of Hindu activists to describe marriages between Hindu women and Muslim men. In the latest video, Raigar said he was "infuriated" over a "jihadist comment", targeting Hindu women, and that was why he had killed Afrazul. The Jodhpur Central Jail administration said it had launched an "intense search operation" to find out how Raigar was able to make the videos using a cell phone. According to a preliminary investigation, Raigar could have used the cell phone of another inmate, but the jail authorities have failed to recover a mobile from the said inmate. Jail Superintendent Vikram Singh said they were investigating the matter and had also reviewed the security of Raigar. Singh said the presence of mobile phones inside the jail was a "serious matter" and added that the prison authorities were trying to find out how the phones were making their way into the prison. Raigar was arrested from Rajsamand district of Rajasthan. His act of killing Afrazul and latter filming the act with the help of his teenage nephew had created a nationwide outrage.

Shambhu Lal Raigar makes videos from jail, claims threat to life

<p>The Congress on Thursday won an assembly seat in Rajasthan and had a major victory in two <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bypoll-results-31475">parliamentary </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bypoll-results-31475">bypolls</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bypoll-results-31475">.&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>The Congress is ready to take the Ajmer and Alwar parliamentary seats from the BJP and has won the Mandalgarh assembly segment, also held by the BJP.</p>

<p>Congress president Rahul Gandhi hailed the party&rsquo;s Rajasthan unit for its impressive show in the bypolls for two Lok Sabha and one Assembly seats, calling the outcome a &ldquo;rejection&rdquo; of the BJP by the people.</p>

<p>&quot;Well done Rajasthan Congress! Proud of each and every one of you. This is a rejection of the BJP by the people of Rajasthan,&quot; tweeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Well done Rajasthan Congress! Proud of each and every one of you. This is a rejection of the BJP by the people of Rajasthan.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajasthanByPolls?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajasthanByPolls</a></p>
&mdash; Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficeOfRG/status/959017563572359168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The ruling BJP on Thursday conceded defeat in Rajasthan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;&ldquo;We respect the people&rsquo;s mandate and we will analyse the reasons for our defeat. I am taking responsibility for the defeat,&rdquo; Rajasthan BJP chief Ashok Parnami said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;We are going to study the reasons, but bypolls don&#39;t reflect the full picture,&quot; said BJP leader Kailash Vijayvargiya also said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>All three seats are linked to Rahul Gandhi&#39;s top lieutenants in Rajasthan - Pilot, CP Joshi and Jitendra Singh Bhanwar.</p>

<p>All the three seats fell vacant after the deaths of Ajmer MP Sanwar Lal Jat, Alwar MP Chand Nath and Mandalgarh MLA Kirti Kumari.</p>


The Congress is ready to take the Ajmer and Alwar parliamentary seats from the BJP and has won the Mandalgarh assembly segment, also held by the BJP

The Congress on Thursday won an assembly seat in Rajasthan and had a major victory in two parliamentary bypolls. The Congress is ready to take the Ajmer and Alwar parliamentary seats from the BJP and has won the Mandalgarh assembly segment, also held by the BJP. Congress president Rahul Gandhi hailed the party’s Rajasthan unit for its impressive show in the bypolls for two Lok Sabha and one Assembly seats, calling the outcome a “rejection” of the BJP by the people. "Well done Rajasthan Congress! Proud of each and every one of you. This is a rejection of the BJP by the people of Rajasthan," tweeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi. Well done Rajasthan Congress! Proud of each and every one of you. This is a rejection of the BJP by the people of Rajasthan.#RajasthanByPolls — Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 1, 2018 × The ruling BJP on Thursday conceded defeat in Rajasthan. “We respect the people’s mandate and we will analyse the reasons for our defeat. I am taking responsibility for the defeat,” Rajasthan BJP chief Ashok Parnami said. "We are going to study the reasons, but bypolls don't reflect the full picture," said BJP leader Kailash Vijayvargiya also said. All three seats are linked to Rahul Gandhi's top lieutenants in Rajasthan - Pilot, CP Joshi and Jitendra Singh Bhanwar. All the three seats fell vacant after the deaths of Ajmer MP Sanwar Lal Jat, Alwar MP Chand Nath and Mandalgarh MLA Kirti Kumari.

Bypoll results: Congress sweeps Rajasthan, setback for Raje's BJP

<p>Counting of votes for the by-polls of three Lok Sabha and two Assembly seats in Rajasthan and West Bengal began today.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After completion of 80 per cent of counting in Alwar congress has maintained a lead of over 1.40 lakh votes and is winning in Ajmer as well with a margin of 80,204 votes.</p>

<p>In a big jolt to the Vasundhara Raje-led BJP government,&nbsp;Congress&nbsp;candidate Vivek Dhakad on Thursday won the Mandalgarh Assembly seat by 12976 votes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Congress president Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter to congratulate fellow leaders Sachin Pilot and Ashok Gehlot for their victory in the Rajasthan&nbsp;bypolls&nbsp;on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Forget trends now,<br />
<br />
We <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@INCIndia</a> have won all 3 seats , done and dusted!<br />
<br />
Let me take this opportunity to congratulate <a href="https://twitter.com/SachinPilot?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SachinPilot</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ashokgehlot51?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashokgehlot51</a> and every congress worker and every proud Rajasthani to believe in congress &lsquo; ideology.<br />
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Big thanks ????????????????<br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajasthanByPolls?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajasthanByPolls</a></p>
&mdash; Office of RG (@0ffice0ffRG) <a href="https://twitter.com/0ffice0ffRG/status/958963108332163072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>TMC&#39;s Sunil Singh has won the Naopara assembly seat in West Bengal with 1,11,729 votes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;Singh said, &ldquo;It is a great win and it shows people&rsquo;s faith in TMC. I will now work for the people. There was a rumour that former TMC leader and now a BJP leader&nbsp;Mukul Roy&nbsp;would be a factor in Noapara seat but he could not make a difference in reality.&rdquo;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Initial trends from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajasthanByPolls?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajasthanByPolls</a> are a mandate against the Govt, I hope our leads will increase even more. Vasundhara ji and her Govt have been totally rejected by people: Sachin Pilot,Congress <a href="https://t.co/UyW82Vhfvt">pic.twitter.com/UyW82Vhfvt</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/958929143130984448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;Meanwhile, many prominent figures took to Twitter to congratulate the winning party.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The real headline of the day is <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajasthanByPolls?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajasthanByPolls</a> . Sorry Mr Jaitley, but your <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jumlanomics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jumlanomics</a> is totally overshadowed. India has had enough of manipulated headlines. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Budget2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Budget2018</a></p>
&mdash; Sanjay Jha (@JhaSanjay) <a href="https://twitter.com/JhaSanjay/status/958948646107648000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The sacrifice of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Padmaavat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Padmaavat</a>&#39;s &quot;i&quot; didn&#39;t go in vain ????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajasthanByPolls?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajasthanByPolls</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajasthanBypollsResult?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajasthanBypollsResult</a></p>
&mdash; Shirish Kunder (@ShirishKunder) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShirishKunder/status/958975784219303936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Big day for Congress. Looks set to take away BJP seats of Alwar and Ajmer. And now started leading in Mandalgarh assembly constituency too. Big message for BJP Govt. <a href="https://twitter.com/CNNnews18?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CNNnews18</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajasthanByPolls?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajasthanByPolls</a></p>
&mdash; Arunoday Mukharji (@ArunodayM) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArunodayM/status/958937704942551040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The truth is staring in the faces of the BJP...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Congress?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Congress</a> leading in all the 3 seats in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajasthanByPolls?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajasthanByPolls</a>..people learn from their mistakes..choosing BJP was a mistake.. <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficeOfRG?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OfficeOfRG</a> is the only compassionate leader with a large heart to lead the country..</p>
&mdash; khushbusundar (@khushsundar) <a href="https://twitter.com/khushsundar/status/958926828508360704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


The polling in all the constituencies took place on Monda

Counting of votes for the by-polls of three Lok Sabha and two Assembly seats in Rajasthan and West Bengal began today. After completion of 80 per cent of counting in Alwar congress has maintained a lead of over 1.40 lakh votes and is winning in Ajmer as well with a margin of 80,204 votes. In a big jolt to the Vasundhara Raje-led BJP government, Congress candidate Vivek Dhakad on Thursday won the Mandalgarh Assembly seat by 12976 votes. Congress president Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter to congratulate fellow leaders Sachin Pilot and Ashok Gehlot for their victory in the Rajasthan bypolls on Thursday. Forget trends now, We @INCIndia have won all 3 seats , done and dusted! Let me take this opportunity to congratulate @SachinPilot @ashokgehlot51 and every congress worker and every proud Rajasthani to believe in congress ‘ ideology. Big thanks ???????????????? #RajasthanByPolls — Office of RG (@0ffice0ffRG) February 1, 2018 × TMC's Sunil Singh has won the Naopara assembly seat in West Bengal with 1,11,729 votes. Singh said, “It is a great win and it shows people’s faith in TMC. I will now work for the people. There was a rumour that former TMC leader and now a BJP leader Mukul Roy would be a factor in Noapara seat but he could not make a difference in reality.” Initial trends from #RajasthanByPolls are a mandate against the Govt, I hope our leads will increase even more. Vasundhara ji and her Govt have been totally rejected by people: Sachin Pilot,Congress pic.twitter.com/UyW82Vhfvt — ANI (@ANI) February 1, 2018 × Meanwhile, many prominent figures took to Twitter to congratulate the winning party. The real headline of the day is #RajasthanByPolls . Sorry Mr Jaitley, but your #Jumlanomics is totally overshadowed. India has had enough of manipulated headlines. #Budget2018 — Sanjay Jha (@JhaSanjay) February 1, 2018 × The sacrifice of #Padmaavat's "i" didn't go in vain ????#RajasthanByPolls #RajasthanBypollsResult — Shirish Kunder (@ShirishKunder) February 1, 2018 × Big day for Congress. Looks set to take away BJP seats of Alwar and Ajmer. And now started leading in Mandalgarh assembly constituency too. Big message for BJP Govt. @CNNnews18 #RajasthanByPolls — Arunoday Mukharji (@ArunodayM) February 1, 2018 × The truth is staring in the faces of the BJP...#Congress leading in all the 3 seats in #RajasthanByPolls..people learn from their mistakes..choosing BJP was a mistake.. @OfficeOfRG is the only compassionate leader with a large heart to lead the country.. — khushbusundar (@khushsundar) February 1, 2018 ×

Bypoll results: Forget trends now, we have won all 3 seats, done and dusted, says Rahul Gandhi

<p>Congress has taken a massive leap and grabbed Mandalgarh Assembly seat and is now on a path to take over Ajmer and Alwar Lok Sabha in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bypoll-results-tmc-wins-naopara-assembly-in-west-bengal-congress-leads-in-ajmer-alwar-31424">Rajasthan </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bypoll-results-tmc-wins-naopara-assembly-in-west-bengal-congress-leads-in-ajmer-alwar-31424">bypolls</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bypoll-results-tmc-wins-naopara-assembly-in-west-bengal-congress-leads-in-ajmer-alwar-31424">.&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Congress is on the verge of winning the Alwar bypoll as after 90 per cent of counting of votes, Congress is leading with a massive margin of over 1.6 lakh votes. BJP could only manage 4,42,502 votes.</p>

<p>Trinamool candidate Sajda Ahmed wins Uluberia Lok Sabha constituency and defeated BJP candidate Anupam Mallick by 4,74,023.</p>

<p>The BJP meanwhile emerged second in both the seats pushing Left Front to the third position. In Uluberia, BJP received 1,68,805 votes while CPM bagged 85,244 votes. In Noapara, BJP registered 38,711 votes while CPM managed to get 35,497 votes. The Congress meanwhile came fourth in both the seats and lost its deposits.</p>

<p>Congress&#39;s Karan Singh wins Alwar Lok Sabha constituency seat and defeated BJP&#39;s Jaswant Yadav by 1,56,319 votes.</p>

<p>The Trinamool Congress under&nbsp;Mamata Banerjee has won West Bengal&#39;s Naopara seat and is maintaining a steady lead in Ulluberia constituency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, BJP has been lagging behind in Rajasthan but still running close in West Bengal relegating the Left Front to third and Congress to the fourth position.</p>

<p>The counting of votes for the Rajasthan bypolls in two Lok Sabha and one assembly constituency &mdash; a crucial contest ahead of the state elections due later this year &mdash; began at 8am on Thursday.</p>


The polling in all the constituencies took place on Monday

Congress has taken a massive leap and grabbed Mandalgarh Assembly seat and is now on a path to take over Ajmer and Alwar Lok Sabha in Rajasthan bypolls. Congress is on the verge of winning the Alwar bypoll as after 90 per cent of counting of votes, Congress is leading with a massive margin of over 1.6 lakh votes. BJP could only manage 4,42,502 votes. Trinamool candidate Sajda Ahmed wins Uluberia Lok Sabha constituency and defeated BJP candidate Anupam Mallick by 4,74,023. The BJP meanwhile emerged second in both the seats pushing Left Front to the third position. In Uluberia, BJP received 1,68,805 votes while CPM bagged 85,244 votes. In Noapara, BJP registered 38,711 votes while CPM managed to get 35,497 votes. The Congress meanwhile came fourth in both the seats and lost its deposits. Congress's Karan Singh wins Alwar Lok Sabha constituency seat and defeated BJP's Jaswant Yadav by 1,56,319 votes. The Trinamool Congress under Mamata Banerjee has won West Bengal's Naopara seat and is maintaining a steady lead in Ulluberia constituency. However, BJP has been lagging behind in Rajasthan but still running close in West Bengal relegating the Left Front to third and Congress to the fourth position. The counting of votes for the Rajasthan bypolls in two Lok Sabha and one assembly constituency — a crucial contest ahead of the state elections due later this year — began at 8am on Thursday.

Rajasthan, West Bengal bypolls: More wins for Congress, TMC

<p>TMC&#39;s Sunil Singh has won the Naopara assembly seat in West Bengal with 1,11,729 votes.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajasthanByPolls?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajasthanByPolls</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a>: Congress leading in Ajmer Lok Sabha by 45321 votes, in Alwar Lok Sabha by 72101 votes and in Mandalgarh assembly by 11136 votes</p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/958967791150878720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Congress&#39;s Vivek Dhakad has won Mandalgarh assembly seat by 12976 votes.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajasthanByPolls?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajasthanByPolls</a> : Congress&#39;s Vivek Dhakad has won Mandalgarh assembly seat by 12976 votes</p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/958970906839277568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>As of now, the Congress leads in Ajmer and Alwar parliamentary seats in Rajasthan. TMC leads in West Bengal&#39;s&nbsp;Uluberia.</p>

<p>The counting began at 8 am today amid tight security.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Naopara assembly seat by-poll: TMC candidate Sunil Singh wins with 1,11,729 votes</p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/958933052180312064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to reports, Congress&#39; Karan Singh Yadav was leading by 61,500 votes over BJP&#39;s Jaswant Yadav in Alwar.</p>

<p>In Ajmer, Congress&#39;s Raghu Sharma was ahead of BJP&#39;s Ram Swaroop Lamba by 3,398 votes, they said.</p>

<p>In Mandalgarh, BJP candidate Shakti Singh Hada was ahead of independent candidate Gopal Malviya by over 3,000 votes. Congress&#39; Vivek Dhakad was trailing.</p>

<p>Chief Election Officer Ashwani Bhagat said the results would be declared before noon.</p>

<p>The polling in all the constituencies took place on Monday.</p>

<p>The election was held for Ajmer and Alwar Lok Sabha seats and Mandalgarh Assembly constituency in Rajasthan.</p>

<p>All the three seats fell vacant after the death of Ajmer MP Sanwar Lal Jat, Alwar MP Chand Nath and Mandalgarh MLA Kirti Kumari, who all were from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).</p>

<p>While in West Bengal, by-polls were held for Uluberia Lok Sabha Constituency in Howrah district and Noapara Assembly Seat in North 24 Parganas.</p>

<p>The election was necessitated due to the death of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Sultan Ahmed and the Congress party MLA Madhusudan Ghosh.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


TMC's Sunil Singh has won the Naopara assembly seat in West Bengal by 1,11,729 votes

TMC's Sunil Singh has won the Naopara assembly seat in West Bengal with 1,11,729 votes. #RajasthanByPolls #UPDATE: Congress leading in Ajmer Lok Sabha by 45321 votes, in Alwar Lok Sabha by 72101 votes and in Mandalgarh assembly by 11136 votes — ANI (@ANI) February 1, 2018 × Congress's Vivek Dhakad has won Mandalgarh assembly seat by 12976 votes. #RajasthanByPolls : Congress's Vivek Dhakad has won Mandalgarh assembly seat by 12976 votes — ANI (@ANI) February 1, 2018 × As of now, the Congress leads in Ajmer and Alwar parliamentary seats in Rajasthan. TMC leads in West Bengal's Uluberia. The counting began at 8 am today amid tight security. Naopara assembly seat by-poll: TMC candidate Sunil Singh wins with 1,11,729 votes — ANI (@ANI) February 1, 2018 × According to reports, Congress' Karan Singh Yadav was leading by 61,500 votes over BJP's Jaswant Yadav in Alwar. In Ajmer, Congress's Raghu Sharma was ahead of BJP's Ram Swaroop Lamba by 3,398 votes, they said. In Mandalgarh, BJP candidate Shakti Singh Hada was ahead of independent candidate Gopal Malviya by over 3,000 votes. Congress' Vivek Dhakad was trailing. Chief Election Officer Ashwani Bhagat said the results would be declared before noon. The polling in all the constituencies took place on Monday. The election was held for Ajmer and Alwar Lok Sabha seats and Mandalgarh Assembly constituency in Rajasthan. All the three seats fell vacant after the death of Ajmer MP Sanwar Lal Jat, Alwar MP Chand Nath and Mandalgarh MLA Kirti Kumari, who all were from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). While in West Bengal, by-polls were held for Uluberia Lok Sabha Constituency in Howrah district and Noapara Assembly Seat in North 24 Parganas. The election was necessitated due to the death of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Sultan Ahmed and the Congress party MLA Madhusudan Ghosh. (With inputs from agencies)

Bypoll results: Congress wins in Mandalgarh, Rajasthan; TMC leads in West Bengal

<p>Counting of votes for the by-polls of three Lok Sabha and two Assembly seats in Rajasthan and West Bengal has begun.</p>

<p>The polling in all the constituencies took place on Monday.</p>

<p>The election was held for Ajmer and Alwar Lok Sabha seats and Mandalgarh Assembly constituency in Rajasthan.</p>

<p>All the three seats fell vacant after the death of Ajmer MP Sanwar Lal Jat, Alwar MP Chand Nath and Mandalgarh MLA Kirti Kumari, who all were from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).</p>

<p>While in West Bengal, by-polls were held for Uluberia Lok Sabha Constituency in Howrah district and Noapara Assembly Seat in North 24 Parganas.</p>

<p>The election was necessitated due to the death of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Sultan Ahmed and the Congress party MLA Madhusudan Ghosh.</p>

<p>According to fresh reports, TMC leads with more than 19,000 votes in Naopara.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Naopara assembly seat by-poll results: TMC leads with more then 19000 votes <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengal</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/958907299027931136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>In Rajasthan&#39;s Mandalgarh, BJP currently leads with 699 votes while in Alwar Congress leads by 9225 votes.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Mandalgarh assembly seat by-poll trends: BJP leading with 699 votes;<br />
Alwar Lok Sabha seat by-poll trends: Congress leading with 9225 votes <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajasthan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajasthan</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/958908100538523650?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Alwar Lok Sabha seat by-poll trends: Congress leading with 30,595 votes<br />
Ajmer Lok Sabha seat by-poll trends: Congress leading with 7585 votes <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajasthan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajasthan</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/958911016036954112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Counting of votes for the by-polls of three Lok Sabha and two Assembly seats in Rajasthan and West Bengal has begun. The polling in all the constituencies took place on Monday. The election was held for Ajmer and Alwar Lok Sabha seats and Mandalgarh Assembly constituency in Rajasthan. All the three seats fell vacant after the death of Ajmer MP Sanwar Lal Jat, Alwar MP Chand Nath and Mandalgarh MLA Kirti Kumari, who all were from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). While in West Bengal, by-polls were held for Uluberia Lok Sabha Constituency in Howrah district and Noapara Assembly Seat in North 24 Parganas. The election was necessitated due to the death of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Sultan Ahmed and the Congress party MLA Madhusudan Ghosh. According to fresh reports, TMC leads with more than 19,000 votes in Naopara. Naopara assembly seat by-poll results: TMC leads with more then 19000 votes #WestBengal — ANI (@ANI) February 1, 2018 × In Rajasthan's Mandalgarh, BJP currently leads with 699 votes while in Alwar Congress leads by 9225 votes. Mandalgarh assembly seat by-poll trends: BJP leading with 699 votes; Alwar Lok Sabha seat by-poll trends: Congress leading with 9225 votes #Rajasthan — ANI (@ANI) February 1, 2018 × Alwar Lok Sabha seat by-poll trends: Congress leading with 30,595 votes Ajmer Lok Sabha seat by-poll trends: Congress leading with 7585 votes #Rajasthan — ANI (@ANI) February 1, 2018 ×

Bypolls results: Counting in Rajasthan, West Bengal begins

<p>A Rohingya refugee camp has come up in West Bengal&#39;s South 24 Parganas district. The camp currently houses six families who were brought over the border from Bangladesh by cattle smugglers and agents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Each of the refugees was charged between Rs 20,000 to 25,000 and they came minus passports or visas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>WION was the first channel to uncover the racket along the Indo-Bangladesh border. Now, with the coming up of the camp, there is definite proof that Rohingya are being smuggled into India from Bangladesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This particular camp came up about a month ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The camp has eight large rooms with a partition each. So each of the six Rohingya families has access to a two-roomed shelter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rooms are made of tin and have asbestos ceilings from which hang small ceiling lamps. Some of the rooms have beds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Rohingya refugees have access to two common toilets and one tube-well for water.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hussain Gazi, a social worker, gave up his plot of land and with the help of NGOs and local villagers helped set up the camp.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;NGOs and local villagers have been contributing towards the Rohingyas with rice, lentils, warm clothing for winters and even blankets. I felt that I should be doing something towards these homeless people hence donated my land to them and with the help of locals set up these houses. Some locals are also hiring the men of the camp and giving them money in return,&quot; Gazi told WION.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Local villagers have donated food, warm clothing and blankets to the Rohingya to help them tide over the winter. (WION)</p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Cattle smugglers speak to WION. Because of a crackdown on cattle smuggling by the BSF and the West Bengal Police, the cattle smugglers have now taken to smuggling in Rohingya. (WION) (WION)</p>
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<p>Cattle smugglers have been active across the Malda-Bangladesh border for decades. They&#39;ve now switched to smuggling in Rohingya because of a crackdown by the BSF and the West Bengal Police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>WION spoke to some of the smugglers who confessed to being involved in the racket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They said organised networks are in place. Agents from both sides strike up a deal and finalise the rates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The smugglers said rates for the smuggling of Rohingya have been fixed. And that discounts are given should an entire Rohingya family want to cross over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;There is a lot of competition and if we don&#39;t give out a discount, agents in Bangladesh will strike a deal with other smugglers. Profit margins in cattle smuggling are very high, in comparison to smuggling of Rohingyas. Helping Rohingyas cross over into Bengal does not fetch them big profits but in absence of any other jobs and industry in the district, we have chosen this as our sole source of livelihood,&quot; one cattle smuggler said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;We stay in touch with agents in Bangladesh for the smuggling of cattle, the same agent finds us the Rohingya family from refugee camps and strikes a deal. Once they come close to the Indian border the labours who work for these smugglers and are directly involved in pushing cattle from the Indian territory into Bangladesh territory help these Rohingyas cross into the border,&quot; said another. &nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;We charge Rs 20,000-25,000 from each of the Rohingya refugee, half of which has to be given to the labourers, who help them cross over the border physically,&quot; he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the camp, the Rohingya say they crossed over the border but that they do not have visas or passports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;I don&#39;t have any passport, I entered with the help of an agent through the border. Some of my family members could not come with me as I did not have enough money. I&#39;m trying to earn some money here so that I can bring my family members here,&quot; one of the refugees, Md. Jahangir, said. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>There has been no word on the camp from the government of West Bengal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the SP of Baruipur district, Arijit Sinha, told WION that they have submitted the Rohingya refugees&#39; UNHRC cards and other documents and are looking into the legal ramifications of whether they can continue to stay on in Bengal or not. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


A Rohingya refugee camp has come up in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district. The camp currently houses six families who were brought over the border from Bangladesh by cattle smugglers and agents. Each of the refugees was charged between Rs 20,000 to 25,000 and they came minus passports or visas. WION was the first channel to uncover the racket along the Indo-Bangladesh border. Now, with the coming up of the camp, there is definite proof that Rohingya are being smuggled into India from Bangladesh. This particular camp came up about a month ago. The camp has eight large rooms with a partition each. So each of the six Rohingya families has access to a two-roomed shelter. The rooms are made of tin and have asbestos ceilings from which hang small ceiling lamps. Some of the rooms have beds. The Rohingya refugees have access to two common toilets and one tube-well for water. Hussain Gazi, a social worker, gave up his plot of land and with the help of NGOs and local villagers helped set up the camp. "NGOs and local villagers have been contributing towards the Rohingyas with rice, lentils, warm clothing for winters and even blankets. I felt that I should be doing something towards these homeless people hence donated my land to them and with the help of locals set up these houses. Some locals are also hiring the men of the camp and giving them money in return," Gazi told WION. Local villagers have donated food, warm clothing and blankets to the Rohingya to help them tide over the winter. (WION) × Cattle smugglers speak to WION. Because of a crackdown on cattle smuggling by the BSF and the West Bengal Police, the cattle smugglers have now taken to smuggling in Rohingya. (WION) (WION) × Cattle smugglers have been active across the Malda-Bangladesh border for decades. They've now switched to smuggling in Rohingya because of a crackdown by the BSF and the West Bengal Police. WION spoke to some of the smugglers who confessed to being involved in the racket. They said organised networks are in place. Agents from both sides strike up a deal and finalise the rates. The smugglers said rates for the smuggling of Rohingya have been fixed. And that discounts are given should an entire Rohingya family want to cross over. "There is a lot of competition and if we don't give out a discount, agents in Bangladesh will strike a deal with other smugglers. Profit margins in cattle smuggling are very high, in comparison to smuggling of Rohingyas. Helping Rohingyas cross over into Bengal does not fetch them big profits but in absence of any other jobs and industry in the district, we have chosen this as our sole source of livelihood," one cattle smuggler said. "We stay in touch with agents in Bangladesh for the smuggling of cattle, the same agent finds us the Rohingya family from refugee camps and strikes a deal. Once they come close to the Indian border the labours who work for these smugglers and are directly involved in pushing cattle from the Indian territory into Bangladesh territory help these Rohingyas cross into the border," said another. "We charge Rs 20,000-25,000 from each of the Rohingya refugee, half of which has to be given to the labourers, who help them cross over the border physically," he added. At the camp, the Rohingya say they crossed over the border but that they do not have visas or passports. "I don't have any passport, I entered with the help of an agent through the border. Some of my family members could not come with me as I did not have enough money. I'm trying to earn some money here so that I can bring my family members here," one of the refugees, Md. Jahangir, said. There has been no word on the camp from the government of West Bengal. But the SP of Baruipur district, Arijit Sinha, told WION that they have submitted the Rohingya refugees' UNHRC cards and other documents and are looking into the legal ramifications of whether they can continue to stay on in Bengal or not.

Rohingya refugee camp comes up in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas

<p>An Indian journalist accompanying West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was caught stealing cutlery at a dinner party in Edinburgh, Scotland.</p>

<p>The dinner was hosted by an industrialist on November 17 last year at an Edinburgh hotel.</p>

<p>The journalist, who is around 60 years old, had at first denied the charges but the&nbsp;security footage caught him out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This was Mamata&#39;s maiden trip to Scotland.&nbsp;The meeting had been meant to attract investment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The chief minister had been accompanied by government officials, editors, and senior journalists.</p>

<p>The journalist had also tried to put the stolen cutlery into the bag of a fellow journalist.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was finally charged with a 50-pound fine by the hotel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The other journalists had not mentioned the incident because it involved a colleague but, news reports said, one of them finally broke&nbsp;his silence to a Bengali tabloid.&nbsp;</p>


The dinner was hosted by an industrialist on November 17 last year at a hotel

An Indian journalist accompanying West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was caught stealing cutlery at a dinner party in Edinburgh, Scotland. The dinner was hosted by an industrialist on November 17 last year at an Edinburgh hotel. The journalist, who is around 60 years old, had at first denied the charges but the security footage caught him out. This was Mamata's maiden trip to Scotland. The meeting had been meant to attract investment. The chief minister had been accompanied by government officials, editors, and senior journalists. The journalist had also tried to put the stolen cutlery into the bag of a fellow journalist. He was finally charged with a 50-pound fine by the hotel. The other journalists had not mentioned the incident because it involved a colleague but, news reports said, one of them finally broke his silence to a Bengali tabloid.

Journalist accompanying Mamata Banerjee caught stealing cutlery at Edinburgh dinner party

<p>Mamata Banerjee today stands as one of the few unaligned politicians who has the capacity to capture the national audience. She is a state leader with a national stature. A quintessential outsider who made it big on her own merit and hard work.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;She not only defeated the Left Front but also stopped the BJP&rsquo;s surge in West Bengal. Whether it was &#39;Ma Mati Manush&#39; campaign line or Congress-Left combine campaign against her, Mamata survived. She bettered herself. Highly populist, overtly loud but simple in style, Mamata today stands at the crossroad. &nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;The question is whether Mamata Banerjee can do a Harkrishan Surjit? Can Mamata be a Kingmaker? Can Mamata forge an alliance of regional parties with the Congress to give a good fight in the Lok Sabha elections slated in 2019?</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The answer lies in the changing landscape of the Indian politics. The 1970s saw the rise of powerful non- Congress leadership across Indian states.&nbsp; Most of the leaders enjoyed iconic status in the national politics. From Karunanidhi to Prakash Singh Badal to Sharad Pawar to Hedge to Bal Thackery, these leaders had both way and the say. The politics at Centre had leaders like Charan Singh, Madhu Dandavate, Surendra Mohan, Somnath Banerji, Chandrashekhar and many others. They were united by anti-Congressism.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;It is this stream which birthed two non-Congress governments. The first was between 1970-80 and second was 1990 VP Singh&rsquo;s government and third was United Front experiment of 1996-98. Surprisingly all three tenures gave two prime ministers each. The first had Morarji Desai and Charan Singh. The second one gave VP Singh and Chandrasekhar and the last gave Deve Gowda and IK Gujaral.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Once this exercise got politically discredited, India saw a split in the regional parties on the issue of Congress and, subsequently, most of them took positions on the issue of secularism. It is because of this division that Vajpayee government came to power in 1998. It was called the NDA. The same experiment was successfully replicated by Congress in 2004 when it formed the government under the rubric of UPA.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;This world collapsed after 2014. BJP expanded its base across India, edging out its own alliance partners like Shiv Sena. Similar expansion took place in North East where regional parties became subservient to BJP&rsquo;s consolidating social base. Those who managed to stand tall, either allied with BJP or stayed neutral like the TRS.&nbsp; It is this complex scenario that Mamata will have to navigate in case she wants to play a bigger role nationally.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;Occasionally, Mamata has aligned with other regional leaders on national issues but she remains tied to the state where politics is volatile and she is the lobe pole. Secondly, Mamata also has to deal with the Left which has collaborated very closely with the Congress both at the state and national level. In my opinion, the days of the powerful kingmakers from states are over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Most of the chief ministers are today only opinion makers. They can influence a discourse but none of them have the capacity to build a confederacy. Almost all are unpredictable and solely focused on their existence as a regional party which runs like a family cartel. In this scenario, Mamata will have her national say but stay rooted to West Bengal as she knows that her power stems from it, and rest of India can be extremely time consuming and politically disastrous as Kejriwal tasted it first-hand. For now, Mamata will stay in both news and views but from West Bengal, unless 2019 throws up a fractured Parliament and the Lady keeps her numbers in the Lower House.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><i>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).</i></p>


Mamata will stay in both news and views but from West Bengal, unless 2019 throws up a fractured Parliament and the Lady keeps her numbers in the Lower House.

Mamata Banerjee today stands as one of the few unaligned politicians who has the capacity to capture the national audience. She is a state leader with a national stature. A quintessential outsider who made it big on her own merit and hard work. She not only defeated the Left Front but also stopped the BJP’s surge in West Bengal. Whether it was 'Ma Mati Manush' campaign line or Congress-Left combine campaign against her, Mamata survived. She bettered herself. Highly populist, overtly loud but simple in style, Mamata today stands at the crossroad. The question is whether Mamata Banerjee can do a Harkrishan Surjit? Can Mamata be a Kingmaker? Can Mamata forge an alliance of regional parties with the Congress to give a good fight in the Lok Sabha elections slated in 2019? The answer lies in the changing landscape of the Indian politics. The 1970s saw the rise of powerful non- Congress leadership across Indian states. Most of the leaders enjoyed iconic status in the national politics. From Karunanidhi to Prakash Singh Badal to Sharad Pawar to Hedge to Bal Thackery, these leaders had both way and the say. The politics at Centre had leaders like Charan Singh, Madhu Dandavate, Surendra Mohan, Somnath Banerji, Chandrashekhar and many others. They were united by anti-Congressism. It is this stream which birthed two non-Congress governments. The first was between 1970-80 and second was 1990 VP Singh’s government and third was United Front experiment of 1996-98. Surprisingly all three tenures gave two prime ministers each. The first had Morarji Desai and Charan Singh. The second one gave VP Singh and Chandrasekhar and the last gave Deve Gowda and IK Gujaral. Once this exercise got politically discredited, India saw a split in the regional parties on the issue of Congress and, subsequently, most of them took positions on the issue of secularism. It is because of this division that Vajpayee government came to power in 1998. It was called the NDA. The same experiment was successfully replicated by Congress in 2004 when it formed the government under the rubric of UPA. This world collapsed after 2014. BJP expanded its base across India, edging out its own alliance partners like Shiv Sena. Similar expansion took place in North East where regional parties became subservient to BJP’s consolidating social base. Those who managed to stand tall, either allied with BJP or stayed neutral like the TRS. It is this complex scenario that Mamata will have to navigate in case she wants to play a bigger role nationally. Occasionally, Mamata has aligned with other regional leaders on national issues but she remains tied to the state where politics is volatile and she is the lobe pole. Secondly, Mamata also has to deal with the Left which has collaborated very closely with the Congress both at the state and national level. In my opinion, the days of the powerful kingmakers from states are over. Most of the chief ministers are today only opinion makers. They can influence a discourse but none of them have the capacity to build a confederacy. Almost all are unpredictable and solely focused on their existence as a regional party which runs like a family cartel. In this scenario, Mamata will have her national say but stay rooted to West Bengal as she knows that her power stems from it, and rest of India can be extremely time consuming and politically disastrous as Kejriwal tasted it first-hand. For now, Mamata will stay in both news and views but from West Bengal, unless 2019 throws up a fractured Parliament and the Lady keeps her numbers in the Lower House. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).

Opinion: Will anti-communal politics help Mamata to counter BJP?

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