Two healthcare workers suspected of being infected by Nipah virus in Barasat city in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal are undergoing treatment.


Nipah virus: Centre steps in as two Nipah cases detected in West Bengal

The Indian Navy has begun work on a new base at Haldia, in West Bengal, to strengthen India's maritime presence in the northern Bay of Bengal region amid increasing Chinese naval presence and evolving regional security situations pertaining to Bangladesh and Pakistan. According to media reports, the new base, which is unnamed yet, will work as a naval "detachment" for small warships like Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC) and New Water Jet Fast Attack Craft (NWJFAC).&nbsp;The Navy will upgrade the existing Haldia dock complex to rapidly operationalise with minimal additional infrastructure. Initial work will include building a dedicated jetty and shore-support facilities. Currently, the Indian Navy have bases along the eastern coast of India, chiefly in Vishakhapatnam, where the Eastern Naval Command have its headquarters, and also in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.&nbsp;However, the Haldia bases assume significant importance for several reasons, including rising movements by the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) in the Indian Ocean Region, growing threats of maritime infiltrations, and rising incidents of illegal crossings from Bangladesh into India using sea routes.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/under-blackout-iran-s-streets-run-red-tehran-doctor-says-at-least-217-killed-as-regime-opens-fire-on-protestors-report-1768040473068">Under blackout, Iran's streets run red: Tehran doctor says at least 217 killed as regime opens fire on protestors - Report</a>&nbsp;The base also becomes a key asset amid China's growing defence and infrastructure engagement with Bangladesh, along with its long-standing military cooperation with Pakistan. The base will house around a hundred officers and personnel, possibly fewer. Its location at Haldia, about 100 km from Kolkata on the Bay of Bengal, is advantageous as it avoids the long and time-consuming journey up the Hooghly River. In 2024, the Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved the Navy’s proposal to procure 120 Fast Interceptor Craft (FICs) and 31 Next-Generation Water Jet Fast Attack Craft (NWJFACs).&nbsp;The FICs, for example, are small, agile boats of around 100 tonnes, capable of speeds up to 45 knots. Armed with machine guns, they can carry 10–12 personnel and are designed for a wide range of operational roles.

The base becomes a key asset amid China's growing defence and infrastructure engagement with Bangladesh, along with its long-standing military cooperation with Pakistan.

The Indian Navy has begun work on a new base at Haldia, in West Bengal, to strengthen India's maritime presence in the northern Bay of Bengal region amid increasing Chinese naval presence and evolving regional security situations pertaining to Bangladesh and Pakistan. According to media reports, the new base, which is unnamed yet, will work as a naval "detachment" for small warships like Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC) and New Water Jet Fast Attack Craft (NWJFAC). The Navy will upgrade the existing Haldia dock complex to rapidly operationalise with minimal additional infrastructure. Initial work will include building a dedicated jetty and shore-support facilities. Currently, the Indian Navy have bases along the eastern coast of India, chiefly in Vishakhapatnam, where the Eastern Naval Command have its headquarters, and also in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. However, the Haldia bases assume significant importance for several reasons, including rising movements by the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) in the Indian Ocean Region, growing threats of maritime infiltrations, and rising incidents of illegal crossings from Bangladesh into India using sea routes. Also Read: Under blackout, Iran's streets run red: Tehran doctor says at least 217 killed as regime opens fire on protestors - Report The base also becomes a key asset amid China's growing defence and infrastructure engagement with Bangladesh, along with its long-standing military cooperation with Pakistan. The base will house around a hundred officers and personnel, possibly fewer. Its location at Haldia, about 100 km from Kolkata on the Bay of Bengal, is advantageous as it avoids the long and time-consuming journey up the Hooghly River. In 2024, the Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved the Navy’s proposal to procure 120 Fast Interceptor Craft (FICs) and 31 Next-Generation Water Jet Fast Attack Craft (NWJFACs). The FICs, for example, are small, agile boats of around 100 tonnes, capable of speeds up to 45 knots. Armed with machine guns, they can carry 10–12 personnel and are designed for a wide range of operational roles.

The base becomes a key asset amid China's growing defence and infrastructure engagement with Bangladesh, along with its long-standing military cooperation with Pakistan.

Indian Navy to establish base in West Bengal’s Haldia to bolster maritime monitoring of China, Bangladesh

Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal Chief Minister, leads a massive protest march in Kolkata against the Enforcement Directorate’s action following the I-PAC raid. The rally highlights rising political tensions and widespread public support for Banerjee’s stance.

ED vs Mamata Banerjee: West Bengal Cm Mamata Banerjee Leads March in Kolkata

The political and legal confrontation in West Bengal intensifies as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) faces sharp criticism from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The controversy centers on ‘green files’ seized during recent ED raids, prompting a multi-party legal battle at the Calcutta High Court involving the TMC, ED, and IPAC.

Mamata has accused the federal agency of politically motivated actions, stating, “But this paper was our paper. You forcibly snatched it from our house.” She has also called for mega protests, framing the crackdown as a political vendetta ahead of upcoming polls. Meanwhile, the BJP questions who she is trying to protect, and the Congress has expressed concerns over the handling of documents during an active investigation.

West Bengal Tensions Escalate: Mamata Banerjee Clashes With ED Over ‘Green Files’ 

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee reacts strongly to the Enforcement Directorate's raid on her residence and the home of I-PAC chief. She accuses the BJP of political targeting amid rising tensions in the state.

West Bengal: Mamata Banerjee Attacks BJP for Raid on Residence of I-PAC Chief

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee Criticizes BJP After ED Raid

West Bengal Assembly elections are approaching and are seen as crucial. Senior BJP leader Dilip Ghosh believes people are ready for change. Union Home Minister Amit Shah's visits are credited with strengthening the BJP's base and boosting worker morale. Shah is meeting with state BJP leaders to review preparedness and strategy for the upcoming polls.

Amit Shah Lays Out BJP's Core Campaign Agenda for West Bengal Elections Race To Power 

West Bengal Assembly elections are approaching and are seen as crucial. Senior BJP leader Dilip Ghosh believes people are ready for change. Union Home Minister Amit Shah's visits are credited with strengthening the BJP's base and boosting worker morale. Shah is meeting with state BJP leaders to review preparedness and strategy for the upcoming polls.



Amit Shah lays out BJP's core campaign agenda for West Bengal elections

Over 58 lakh pre-existing voters have been deleted from the draft list for 2026, due to death, relocation, duplication, missing, and other reasons.


India: 58 Lakh Voters Deleted from West Bengal's Draft Electoral Roll 

The Election Commission of India flagged 58,08,202 (around 6 million) names as potentially eligible for exclusion from the electoral rolls following completion of its Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in West Bengal. The poll body on Friday (Dec 12) extended the duration of the ongoing electoral clean-up drive for five states and a union territory, including Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands, while in Rajasthan, West Bengal and Goa, it marked the completion of enumeration.&nbsp;According to the Election Commission, officials said that the figures represent the count of deceased, missing, relocated, bogus and other disqualified voters identified during the enumeration process in the state. The commission expected he final figure to be similar to the draft rolls with minor adjustments after considering complaints and anomalies flagged by the voters.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-accuses-ukraine-of-targeting-chemical-facilities-risking-exposure-to-civilians-1765528782940">Russia accuses Ukraine of targeting chemical facilities, risking exposure to civilians</a>&nbsp;West Bengal's electoral roll, last certified on 27 October 2025, records 7,66,37,529 registered voters. In this context, the provisional figure of 50 lakh represents a sizeable share of the electorate. Election officials and the Chief Electoral Officer’s office have repeatedly emphasised that this number is only a preliminary outcome of the digitisation process. They clarified that it must be viewed within the administrative sequence that follows: publication of the draft roll, issuance of notices, hearings, resolution of claims and objections, and finally, the Election Commission of India’s scrutiny and approval of the final list.&nbsp;The poll body classified 1,35,575 voters as bogus, while another 57,509 voters are placed under the "other" category, all of whom are slated for removal from the draft list. It will publish the draft electoral roll on December 6, following which voters can raise objections, report errors or submit missing information.&nbsp;The Election Commission launched the second phase of the SIR drive across 12 states and Union Territories with preparatory printing and training from 28–30 October 2025, followed by house-to-house enumeration from 4 November to 11 December 2025. Draft electoral rolls were published on 16 December 2025, with the claims and objections window open until 15 January 2026, and the final voter list set for publication by mid-February 2026.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/venture-capital-leaders-pranav-sharma-blue-gold-s-sameer-salgar-join-kyvex-1765534750547">Venture Capital Leaders Pranav Sharma &amp; Blue Gold’s Sameer Salgar Join Kyvex to lead Global Business Development and accelerate global expansion of India’s Sovereign AI Platform</a>&nbsp;However, the exercise became a point of contention between the ruling NDA alliance led by the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Opposition Bloc, with Congress describing it as a move aimed at vote theft. In contrast, the BJP described it as a routine exercise to clean up electoral rolls in the country.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Amid the row over the Special Intensive Revision, the Election Commission identified 58,08,202 names potentially eligible for deletion on the grounds of deceased, missing, relocated and bogus voters.

The Election Commission of India flagged 58,08,202 (around 6 million) names as potentially eligible for exclusion from the electoral rolls following completion of its Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in West Bengal. The poll body on Friday (Dec 12) extended the duration of the ongoing electoral clean-up drive for five states and a union territory, including Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands, while in Rajasthan, West Bengal and Goa, it marked the completion of enumeration. According to the Election Commission, officials said that the figures represent the count of deceased, missing, relocated, bogus and other disqualified voters identified during the enumeration process in the state. The commission expected he final figure to be similar to the draft rolls with minor adjustments after considering complaints and anomalies flagged by the voters. Also Read: Russia accuses Ukraine of targeting chemical facilities, risking exposure to civilians West Bengal's electoral roll, last certified on 27 October 2025, records 7,66,37,529 registered voters. In this context, the provisional figure of 50 lakh represents a sizeable share of the electorate. Election officials and the Chief Electoral Officer’s office have repeatedly emphasised that this number is only a preliminary outcome of the digitisation process. They clarified that it must be viewed within the administrative sequence that follows: publication of the draft roll, issuance of notices, hearings, resolution of claims and objections, and finally, the Election Commission of India’s scrutiny and approval of the final list. The poll body classified 1,35,575 voters as bogus, while another 57,509 voters are placed under the "other" category, all of whom are slated for removal from the draft list. It will publish the draft electoral roll on December 6, following which voters can raise objections, report errors or submit missing information. The Election Commission launched the second phase of the SIR drive across 12 states and Union Territories with preparatory printing and training from 28–30 October 2025, followed by house-to-house enumeration from 4 November to 11 December 2025. Draft electoral rolls were published on 16 December 2025, with the claims and objections window open until 15 January 2026, and the final voter list set for publication by mid-February 2026. Also Read: Venture Capital Leaders Pranav Sharma & Blue Gold’s Sameer Salgar Join Kyvex to lead Global Business Development and accelerate global expansion of India’s Sovereign AI Platform However, the exercise became a point of contention between the ruling NDA alliance led by the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Opposition Bloc, with Congress describing it as a move aimed at vote theft. In contrast, the BJP described it as a routine exercise to clean up electoral rolls in the country.

Amid the row over the Special Intensive Revision, the Election Commission identified 58,08,202 names potentially eligible for deletion on the grounds of deceased, missing, relocated and bogus voters.

West Bengal SIR: Over 5 million voters identified for likely exclusion from voter list

Tensions rise as thousands of Bangladesh nationals are fleeing to Bangladesh from West Bengal, fearing the Election Commission's ongoing Sir Drive. This unprecedented migration is sparking concerns about border security and the political implications in both regions.

Bengal Border Exodus: Thousands of Bangladesh Nationals Flee West Bengal

Tensions rise as thousands of Bangladesh nationals are fleeing to Bangladesh from West Bengal, fearing the Election Commission's ongoing Sir Drive. This unprecedented migration is sparking concerns about border security and the political implications in both regions.


Bengal Border Exodus: Thousands of Bangladesh Nationals Flee to Bangladesh Amid S.I.R Drive

A major political storm has erupted in West Bengal after Governor C.V. Ananda Bose ordered a search operation inside Raj Bhavan. The unprecedented move has sparked heated reactions across the political spectrum, with parties accusing each other of constitutional overreach and misuse of authority.

West Bengal Political Firestorm: Governor Orders Search at Raj Bhavan

Another sexual assault case has come the light in the Indian state of West Bengal, where a Kolkata woman has accused a man of attempted rape and physical assault, who was previously reportedly convicted in the 2012 Park Street gang rape case. The woman alleged it happened at a nightclub inside a five-star hotel in the city.According to her complaint filed at the Bidhannagar South Police Station, a group of men began arguing with her group before turning violent.The woman identified two men in the incident: Naser Khan and Junaid Khan. In her complaint, she claimed that Nasrr Khan, who had earlier served a prison term in a gang rape case before being released in 2020, was among those who attacked her and tried to touch her inappropriately.Although the police have yet to confirm if he is the same person convicted in the Park Street gang rape case."They attacked us with bottles and tried to touch me inappropriately," the woman stated in her complaint, according to a police officer.This came after on October 10, 2025, a 23-year-old girl, a student of second year MBBS, was gang-raped in Durgapur, West Bengal, India. The location was just 170 km from the capital city of Kolkata. The girl was studying in a private medical college. In this case, the Chief Minister of Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, said that the survivor should have protected herself and not been out at night."How did she come out at 12.30 at night?" the West Bengal CM asked. She tried defending her government from the allegation of women's safety failure, saying that it was the responsibility of the college to ensure the survivor's safety, not her government's."Especially, a girl child at night-time, they shouldn't be allowed to come outside. They have to protect themselves also," Banerjee added. This was not the first time Banerjee made such a bizarre and misogynistic comment. During previous rape cases in the state, the CM was seen making some controversial remarks where she blamed the rape survivor.

The woman identified two men in the incident: Naser Khan and Junaid Khan. In her complaint, she claimed that Nasrr Khan, who had earlier served a prison term in a gang rape case before being released in 2020, was among those who attacked her and tried to touch her inappropriately.

Another sexual assault case has come the light in the Indian state of West Bengal, where a Kolkata woman has accused a man of attempted rape and physical assault, who was previously reportedly convicted in the 2012 Park Street gang rape case. The woman alleged it happened at a nightclub inside a five-star hotel in the city. According to her complaint filed at the Bidhannagar South Police Station, a group of men began arguing with her group before turning violent. The woman identified two men in the incident: Naser Khan and Junaid Khan. In her complaint, she claimed that Nasrr Khan, who had earlier served a prison term in a gang rape case before being released in 2020, was among those who attacked her and tried to touch her inappropriately. Although the police have yet to confirm if he is the same person convicted in the Park Street gang rape case. "They attacked us with bottles and tried to touch me inappropriately," the woman stated in her complaint, according to a police officer. This came after on October 10, 2025, a 23-year-old girl, a student of second year MBBS, was gang-raped in Durgapur, West Bengal, India. The location was just 170 km from the capital city of Kolkata. The girl was studying in a private medical college. In this case, the Chief Minister of Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, said that the survivor should have protected herself and not been out at night. "How did she come out at 12.30 at night?" the West Bengal CM asked. She tried defending her government from the allegation of women's safety failure, saying that it was the responsibility of the college to ensure the survivor's safety, not her government's. "Especially, a girl child at night-time, they shouldn't be allowed to come outside. They have to protect themselves also," Banerjee added. This was not the first time Banerjee made such a bizarre and misogynistic comment. During previous rape cases in the state, the CM was seen making some controversial remarks where she blamed the rape survivor.

The woman identified two men in the incident: Naser Khan and Junaid Khan. In her complaint, she claimed that Nasrr Khan, who had earlier served a prison term in a gang rape case before being released in 2020, was among those who attacked her and tried to touch her inappropriately.

Kolkata woman claims sexual assault in nightclub,  accuses convict of 2012 Park Street gang rape case

This Diwali 2025, West Bengal came alive with grand Kali Puja celebrations, blending deep devotion with dazzling displays of light and festivity. From intricately crafted idols to vibrant pandals and fireworks, this year’s celebrations were truly unforgettable.

West Bengal: Massive Kali Puja Celebrations | Diwali 2025 in Bengal | WION

A 23-year-old classmate of the medical student who alleged she was gangraped near her college in Durgapur, West Bengal, was arrested on Tuesday evening (October 14). This development came shortly after Asansol-Durgapur Police Commissioner Sunil Kumar Choudhary said that the incident did not appear to be a gangrape and confirmed that the classmate remained under suspicion.&nbsp;The accused, hailing from Malda district, had taken the survivor out for dinner on October 10, the night of the alleged assault. He was initially detained on October 11. Earlier, police had arrested five local villagers, but during his first media briefing on Tuesday, Commissioner Choudhary said that, based on medical evidence and the investigation so far, only one person seemed directly involved. “The investigation and medical reports point to the involvement of a single individual. The roles of others are still being scrutinised. The victim’s friend is not beyond suspicion,” Choudhary told reporters. He also confirmed that police had recreated the crime scene earlier in the day.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/imf-forecasts-india-s-gdp-growth-to-6-6-for-2025-despite-us-tariff-concerns-1760451727341">IMF forecasts India’s GDP growth to 6.6% for 2025 despite US tariff concerns</a>&nbsp;According to Choudhary, the friend accompanied police to the scene along with the other suspects. His clothes from that night were seized for forensic testing. The survivor’s father had also named him as a suspect in his FIR filed on October 11. Police said he will be produced before a local court in Durgapur on Wednesday.&nbsp;CCTV footage retrieved from the college showed the woman and her friend leaving the campus at 7:54 pm. He returned alone at 8:42 pm, wandered around the premises, and did not alert anyone about her disappearance. He left again at 8:48 pm and re-entered the campus with the woman at 9:29 pm.&nbsp;The survivor, a native of Jaleshwar in Odisha and a student at IQ City Medical College, alleged that the assailants used her phone to call her friend after the assault. Both had told police they had gone out for dinner. The college informed police around 1 am and filed a formal complaint at 3:28 am. Of the five villagers arrested earlier, two — Sheikh Safiqul (30) and Sheikh Nasiruddin (23) — were remanded in nine days of police custody on Monday. The other three — Apu Bauri (21), Firdous Sheikh (23), and Sheikh Riazuddin (31) — were sent to 10-day custody on Sunday. All work as daily wage labourers in nearby villages.&nbsp;When asked if the suspects might have discovered the pair in a compromising situation — a possibility emerging during the probe — Choudhary said that angle was still being investigated. Police also recovered the survivor’s mobile phone from one of the suspects. As the accused had allegedly demanded ₹3,000 to return the device, charges of snatching were added to the case, along with Sections 70(1) (gangrape) and 3(5) (crime with common intention) under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Durgapur rape: Another twist in investigation as police arrest survivor’s friend; rule out gangrape

A 23-year-old classmate of the medical student who alleged she was gangraped near her college in Durgapur, West Bengal, was arrested on Tuesday evening (October 14). This development came shortly after Asansol-Durgapur Police Commissioner Sunil Kumar Choudhary said that the incident did not appear to be a gangrape and confirmed that the classmate remained under suspicion. The accused, hailing from Malda district, had taken the survivor out for dinner on October 10, the night of the alleged assault. He was initially detained on October 11. Earlier, police had arrested five local villagers, but during his first media briefing on Tuesday, Commissioner Choudhary said that, based on medical evidence and the investigation so far, only one person seemed directly involved. “The investigation and medical reports point to the involvement of a single individual. The roles of others are still being scrutinised. The victim’s friend is not beyond suspicion,” Choudhary told reporters. He also confirmed that police had recreated the crime scene earlier in the day. Also Read: IMF forecasts India’s GDP growth to 6.6% for 2025 despite US tariff concerns According to Choudhary, the friend accompanied police to the scene along with the other suspects. His clothes from that night were seized for forensic testing. The survivor’s father had also named him as a suspect in his FIR filed on October 11. Police said he will be produced before a local court in Durgapur on Wednesday. CCTV footage retrieved from the college showed the woman and her friend leaving the campus at 7:54 pm. He returned alone at 8:42 pm, wandered around the premises, and did not alert anyone about her disappearance. He left again at 8:48 pm and re-entered the campus with the woman at 9:29 pm. The survivor, a native of Jaleshwar in Odisha and a student at IQ City Medical College, alleged that the assailants used her phone to call her friend after the assault. Both had told police they had gone out for dinner. The college informed police around 1 am and filed a formal complaint at 3:28 am. Of the five villagers arrested earlier, two — Sheikh Safiqul (30) and Sheikh Nasiruddin (23) — were remanded in nine days of police custody on Monday. The other three — Apu Bauri (21), Firdous Sheikh (23), and Sheikh Riazuddin (31) — were sent to 10-day custody on Sunday. All work as daily wage labourers in nearby villages. When asked if the suspects might have discovered the pair in a compromising situation — a possibility emerging during the probe — Choudhary said that angle was still being investigated. Police also recovered the survivor’s mobile phone from one of the suspects. As the accused had allegedly demanded ₹3,000 to return the device, charges of snatching were added to the case, along with Sections 70(1) (gangrape) and 3(5) (crime with common intention) under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Police have now arrested the survivor’s classmate in the Durgapur rape case. Investigation by police officials say evidence points to only one person being involved

The alleged gangrape of a 23-year-old second-year medical student near a private medical college in Durgapur, West Bengal, has snowballed into a major controversy, fuelling public anger and a fierce political slugfest. As part of the ongoing investigation, police on Tuesday (October 14) moved to reconstruct the crime scene. All five suspects have now been arrested, including two nabbed on Monday (October 13) with the help of one accused’s sister. Rozina Sk, sister of Safiq Sk, reportedly tipped off police about his location under Andal bridge, saying she didn’t want her family to “bear the shame” of his actions. Safiq surrendered without resistance, while another accused, Sk Nasiruddin, believed to have provided the getaway motorcycle, was caught shortly after.&nbsp;The other three men — Riyazuddin (a former college security guard), Apu Barui, and Firdaus Sk — were picked up on Sunday and placed in 10-day police custody. The two arrested later have been remanded for nine days. In a rare move, the Durgapur Bar Association has decided not to defend the accused. Legal aid lawyer Pooja Kurmi submitted representation documents but refrained from filing for bail.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/winter-looms-infiltration-attempts-surge-security-forces-tighten-vigil-along-loc-in-jammu-and-kashmir-1760427986064">Winter looms, infiltration attempts surge: Security forces tighten vigil along LOC in Jammu and Kashmir</a><h2>Reconstruction and evidence hunt</h2>Investigators plan to take the accused to the forest patch near Paranaganj Kali Bari cremation ground, the scene of the assault, to piece together the sequence of events. Police have already visited the homes of some accused to recover hidden evidence and will conduct medical examinations and DNA profiling of all suspects. A test identification parade is expected after the survivor records her statement.&nbsp;The assault took place between 8 pm and 8.45 pm on Friday night. The survivor, who hails from Balasore, Odisha, was walking with a male friend when a group of five men intercepted them near the cremation ground. They allegedly snatched her phone to prevent her from calling for help and took turns sexually assaulting her. Her companion fled and is currently under detention for questioning. The accused include a hospital employee, a former guard, a civic body contract worker, and an unemployed youth.<h2>Political fallout and public anger</h2>The brutality of the attack and the subsequent remarks by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee have ignited a political storm. The survivor’s father expressed outrage, likening the state’s law and order to “Aurangzeb’s rule” and announcing his intention to bring his daughter back to Odisha. “She is also a woman. How can she say such things? Should women stop working and stay home?” he asked.&nbsp;Banerjee’s initial comment — urging private colleges to “take care” of women students and saying “they should not be allowed to go out at night” — was widely condemned as victim-blaming. Though she later claimed her words were “distorted,” the backlash was swift. Odisha Deputy CM Pravati Parida said the remarks had “insulted” women across Bengal, while TMC MP Saugata Roy defended the CM, saying late-night outings were unsafe as “police cannot be on every street.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-elections-2025-jailed-activist-sharjeel-imam-seeks-bail-to-contest-state-polls-after-five-years-in-jail-1760366970315">Bihar Elections 2025: Jailed activist Sharjeel Imam seeks bail to contest state polls after five years in jail</a><h2>Governor’s visit and NCW intervention</h2>Governor CV Ananda Bose visited the survivor’s family on Monday (October 13), describing the incident as “deeply disturbing” and calling for a “second renaissance” to restore safety for women in Bengal. The National Commission for Women (NCW) has issued an 11-point set of recommendations to ensure the survivor’s education is not disrupted. These include transfer options to other colleges, special exams, improved CCTV surveillance, and a dedicated police outpost near campus. NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar stressed the need for speedy justice through a fast-track trial.<h2>TMC-BJP clash</h2>The BJP has launched a six-day sit-in at Durgapur’s City Centre, accusing the state government of political shielding and evidence tampering. Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari alleged that some accused have TMC links, calling the arrests “an eyewash.” TMC’s IT cell chief Debangshu Bhattacharya rejected the charge, stating that statistical probability alone explains some accused having political affiliations. Odisha’s State Commission for Women chairperson Sovana Mohanty also met the survivor and her family. Police Commissioner Sunil Kumar Choudhary maintained that the investigation was on track and promised that “the culprits will not be spared.”

Durgapur gangrape case: Sister helps police nab main accused; crime scene reconstruction next

The alleged gangrape of a 23-year-old second-year medical student near a private medical college in Durgapur, West Bengal, has snowballed into a major controversy, fuelling public anger and a fierce political slugfest. As part of the ongoing investigation, police on Tuesday (October 14) moved to reconstruct the crime scene. All five suspects have now been arrested, including two nabbed on Monday (October 13) with the help of one accused’s sister. Rozina Sk, sister of Safiq Sk, reportedly tipped off police about his location under Andal bridge, saying she didn’t want her family to “bear the shame” of his actions. Safiq surrendered without resistance, while another accused, Sk Nasiruddin, believed to have provided the getaway motorcycle, was caught shortly after. The other three men — Riyazuddin (a former college security guard), Apu Barui, and Firdaus Sk — were picked up on Sunday and placed in 10-day police custody. The two arrested later have been remanded for nine days. In a rare move, the Durgapur Bar Association has decided not to defend the accused. Legal aid lawyer Pooja Kurmi submitted representation documents but refrained from filing for bail. Also Read: Winter looms, infiltration attempts surge: Security forces tighten vigil along LOC in Jammu and Kashmir Reconstruction and evidence hunt Investigators plan to take the accused to the forest patch near Paranaganj Kali Bari cremation ground, the scene of the assault, to piece together the sequence of events. Police have already visited the homes of some accused to recover hidden evidence and will conduct medical examinations and DNA profiling of all suspects. A test identification parade is expected after the survivor records her statement. The assault took place between 8 pm and 8.45 pm on Friday night. The survivor, who hails from Balasore, Odisha, was walking with a male friend when a group of five men intercepted them near the cremation ground. They allegedly snatched her phone to prevent her from calling for help and took turns sexually assaulting her. Her companion fled and is currently under detention for questioning. The accused include a hospital employee, a former guard, a civic body contract worker, and an unemployed youth. Political fallout and public anger The brutality of the attack and the subsequent remarks by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee have ignited a political storm. The survivor’s father expressed outrage, likening the state’s law and order to “Aurangzeb’s rule” and announcing his intention to bring his daughter back to Odisha. “She is also a woman. How can she say such things? Should women stop working and stay home?” he asked. Banerjee’s initial comment — urging private colleges to “take care” of women students and saying “they should not be allowed to go out at night” — was widely condemned as victim-blaming. Though she later claimed her words were “distorted,” the backlash was swift. Odisha Deputy CM Pravati Parida said the remarks had “insulted” women across Bengal, while TMC MP Saugata Roy defended the CM, saying late-night outings were unsafe as “police cannot be on every street.” Also Read: Bihar Elections 2025: Jailed activist Sharjeel Imam seeks bail to contest state polls after five years in jail Governor’s visit and NCW intervention Governor CV Ananda Bose visited the survivor’s family on Monday (October 13), describing the incident as “deeply disturbing” and calling for a “second renaissance” to restore safety for women in Bengal. The National Commission for Women (NCW) has issued an 11-point set of recommendations to ensure the survivor’s education is not disrupted. These include transfer options to other colleges, special exams, improved CCTV surveillance, and a dedicated police outpost near campus. NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar stressed the need for speedy justice through a fast-track trial. TMC-BJP clash The BJP has launched a six-day sit-in at Durgapur’s City Centre, accusing the state government of political shielding and evidence tampering. Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari alleged that some accused have TMC links, calling the arrests “an eyewash.” TMC’s IT cell chief Debangshu Bhattacharya rejected the charge, stating that statistical probability alone explains some accused having political affiliations. Odisha’s State Commission for Women chairperson Sovana Mohanty also met the survivor and her family. Police Commissioner Sunil Kumar Choudhary maintained that the investigation was on track and promised that “the culprits will not be spared.”

Outrage grows after the gangrape of a medical student in Durgapur. All five accused have been arrested; West Bengal's CM’s remarks spark political row as NCW and governor intervene

In shocking remarks in the aftermath of an MBBS student's gang rape in West Bengal's Durgapur, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has tried to shift the responsibility of students' security to private colleges and questioned how the 23-year-old student managed to leave the campus late at night. 


Durgapur horror: 'Girls have to protect themselves', Bengal CM's shocker after alleged gang rape 

Durgapur horror: Bengal CM's shocker after gang rape; three accused held in alleged gang rape case

A second-year MBBS student from Odisha was gang-raped near a private medical college in West Bengal's Durgapur on Friday night.

India: Odisha Origin Medical Student Allegedly Gang-Raped In West Bengal's Durgapur

A second-year MBBS student from Odisha was gang-raped near a private medical college in West Bengal's Durgapur on Friday night.


India: 2nd year medical college student gang-raped in West Bengal's Durgapur

Several bridges suffered damage in the landslides triggered by heavy rain in the Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts of West Bengal.


Breaking: Dozens dead after landslides, flash floods in India's Darjeeling region 

Rain Update: West Bengal is preparing for intense rainfall expected to bring flooding and disruption across the state. The government has implemented emergency measures including deployment of rescue teams, evacuation plans, and flood warnings to vulnerable areas. 


Rain Update: West Bengal Braces for Torrential Rain, Emergency Measures Activated 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday blamed the Trinamool Congress and Congress party for the illegal immigrants residing in the state and said these two parties succumbed to the politics of appeasement and are encouraging immigration only for the greed of power. Addressing a rally in Kolkata, PM Modi said that those who have come here to snatch the livelihoods of our people and have stayed by forging documents will have to leave. “The way the demography is being altered in border areas is also creating a social crisis in West Bengal. The country cannot tolerate this; it must be stopped. Therefore, this time from the Red Fort, I announced a special demography mission against immigration,” Modi said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | West Bengal | Addressing a public meeting in Kolkata, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, &quot;Vote for us and the infiltrators will run away... We will not allow those infiltrators who are taking away the jobs of our youth and torturing women to stay in India... Some parties… <a href="https://t.co/ZpvgCKP5nK">pic.twitter.com/ZpvgCKP5nK</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1958881037679042945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;“Vote for us and these illegal immigrants will run away… We will not allow these infiltrators who are taking away the jobs of our youth and torturing women to stay in India,” he asserted.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/independence-day-pm-modi-announces-major-gst-reforms-what-does-it-mean-for-middle-class-1755252273141">PM Modi announces major GST reforms. What does it mean for middle class</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Money Centre sends for development is looted and spent on TMC cadre’</h2>&nbsp;The PM also launched a scathing attack on the Mamata Banerjee government, saying that the money Centre sends to the state government is not utilised for the welfare of women and the poor; instead, it is spent on the TMC cadre.Addressing a gathering in Kolkata, the PM said that the BJP-led Centre has extended every possible help for the development of West Bengal, but the development in the state is facing massive challenges from the state government, as the funds released for the welfare schemes are being looted by the TMC and spent on the party cadre.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | West Bengal | Addressing a public meeting in Kolkata, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, &quot;The BJP believes that until West Bengal develops, the &#39;yatra&#39; of &#39;Viksit Bharat&#39; will not be successful...In the past 11 years, the central government has extended every possible… <a href="https://t.co/UMI2xfSE09">pic.twitter.com/UMI2xfSE09</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1958873338081591807?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;He further said that the BJP believes in ‘Bangalar Uday, Tobei Viksit Bharater Jai’ (The rise of Bengal leads to the victory of a developed India).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-caused-unimaginable-suffering-pm-modi-says-unfair-and-one-sided-indus-waters-treaty-not-acceptable-to-india-1755228693613">‘Caused unimaginable suffering’: PM Modi says ‘unfair’ and ‘one-sided’ Indus Waters Treaty not acceptable to India</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Atrocities, crime against women have increased in Bengal’: Modi</h2>&nbsp;PM Modi also targeted the TMC government over the poor law and order situation and increasing crimes against women in Bengal.“The atrocities against women in the state have increased. Crime and corruption have become the identity of the TMC government. Till the TMC is in power in the state, there will be no development…The real change will only come when the TMC is removed from power…Criminals and corrupt should be in jail, not in power,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | West Bengal | Addressing a public meeting in Kolkata, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, &quot;...The atrocities against women in the state have increased. Crime and corruption have become the identity of the TMC government. Till the TMC is in power in the state, there will… <a href="https://t.co/T0cZrzrU1d">pic.twitter.com/T0cZrzrU1d</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1958876059765543258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;TMC is the enemy of Bengal’s development; the party’s only objective is to stop the BJP’s roadmap for growth, he said. He also asserted that the BJP strengthened Bengali by granting it classical language status.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-china-ties-pm-modi-hails-steady-progress-in-india-china-ties-wion-1755628156974/">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-china-ties-pm-modi-hails-steady-progress-in-india-china-ties-wion-1755628156974/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>PM inaugurates infra projects worth Rs 5,200 crore</h2>&nbsp;Earlier, the Prime Minister inaugurated infrastructure projects worth Rs 5,200 crore, including three crucial metro stretches—Sealdah to Esplanade (Green Line, 2.6 km), Noapara to Jai Hind Bimanbandar (Yellow Line, 6.77 km), and Hemanta Mukhopadhyay to Beleghata (Orange Line, 4.39 km).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-lauds-shubhanshu-shukla-s-feat-praises-increasing-space-startups-in-india-1755256336467">PM Modi lauds Shubhanshu Shukla's feat, praises increasing space startups in India</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the people to vote for BJP and said their single vote will bring a huge change in West Bengal. He said the BJP has a roadmap for the state, but the TMC is anti-development, and its only objective is to stop the BJP’s roadmap for growth.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday blamed the Trinamool Congress and Congress party for the illegal immigrants residing in the state and said these two parties succumbed to the politics of appeasement and are encouraging immigration only for the greed of power. Addressing a rally in Kolkata, PM Modi said that those who have come here to snatch the livelihoods of our people and have stayed by forging documents will have to leave. “The way the demography is being altered in border areas is also creating a social crisis in West Bengal. The country cannot tolerate this; it must be stopped. Therefore, this time from the Red Fort, I announced a special demography mission against immigration,” Modi said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the people to vote for BJP and said their single vote will bring a huge change in West Bengal. He said the BJP has a roadmap for the state, but the TMC is anti-development, and its only objective is to stop the BJP’s roadmap for growth.

‘Demography being changed in border areas’: PM Modi slams TMC, Congress over illegal immigration

A bomb blast outside Madhyamgram High School in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district claimed one life on Monday (August 18), the police said. The explosion happened in the Madhyamgram police station area and the injured person was rushed to Barasat Medical College and Hospital, but could not survive till then. Superintendent of Police of Barasat police district, Pratiksha Jharkhariya said that the further investigation is underway. &nbsp;According to the police, the victim (Sachchidananda Mishra) was from another state (Uttar Pradesh). State Food and Supplies Minister Rathin Ghosh also visited the site and confirmed that the police are looking into the matter.&nbsp;"He was injured and admitted to Barasat Medical College and Hospital. After a surgery, he was taken to a hospital in Kolkata, where he breathed his last this morning," a senior police officer of Barasat Police District said, according to Deccan Herald.&nbsp;Forensic experts reached the spot and collected the important evidences, while a team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) also visited the spot and had a check on the matter. &nbsp;According to the preliminary investigation, the deceased was carrying a black bagpack, which exploded near the school.&nbsp;"We have seized torn pieces of the bag. Some wire, two mobile phone numbers, and photocopies of two Aadhaar cards were also found. The mobile phone numbers were of his family members in Uttar Pradesh," &nbsp;the official said. &nbsp;According to the police, the family members of the deceased said that he was working in a glass factory in Haryana and was not in touch with them for a while now. &nbsp;"We are trying to find out whether he was a part of any gang that had planned to carry out any terror attack or not. We are investigating to find out the purpose of his visit to West Bengal. Forensic experts have taken the bag for chemical examination, and that will help us to ascertain the type of explosives that were in it," he told PTI.&nbsp;Investigators have also examine the CCTV footage from the near locality and were questioning a local businessman, who had interacted with the deceased few minutes before the blast. The blast occurred early in the morning and the officials are continuing their probe.

West Bengal Food and Supplies Minister Rathin Ghosh also visited the site and confirmed that the police are looking into the matter. The police also confirmed from the CCTV footage that the bag the deceased was carrying exploded as he was walking in front of the High School.

A bomb blast outside Madhyamgram High School in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district claimed one life on Monday (August 18), the police said. The explosion happened in the Madhyamgram police station area and the injured person was rushed to Barasat Medical College and Hospital, but could not survive till then. Superintendent of Police of Barasat police district, Pratiksha Jharkhariya said that the further investigation is underway. According to the police, the victim (Sachchidananda Mishra) was from another state (Uttar Pradesh). State Food and Supplies Minister Rathin Ghosh also visited the site and confirmed that the police are looking into the matter. "He was injured and admitted to Barasat Medical College and Hospital. After a surgery, he was taken to a hospital in Kolkata, where he breathed his last this morning," a senior police officer of Barasat Police District said, according to Deccan Herald. Forensic experts reached the spot and collected the important evidences, while a team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) also visited the spot and had a check on the matter. According to the preliminary investigation, the deceased was carrying a black bagpack, which exploded near the school. "We have seized torn pieces of the bag. Some wire, two mobile phone numbers, and photocopies of two Aadhaar cards were also found. The mobile phone numbers were of his family members in Uttar Pradesh," the official said. According to the police, the family members of the deceased said that he was working in a glass factory in Haryana and was not in touch with them for a while now. "We are trying to find out whether he was a part of any gang that had planned to carry out any terror attack or not. We are investigating to find out the purpose of his visit to West Bengal. Forensic experts have taken the bag for chemical examination, and that will help us to ascertain the type of explosives that were in it," he told PTI. Investigators have also examine the CCTV footage from the near locality and were questioning a local businessman, who had interacted with the deceased few minutes before the blast. The blast occurred early in the morning and the officials are continuing their probe.

West Bengal Food and Supplies Minister Rathin Ghosh also visited the site and confirmed that the police are looking into the matter. The police also confirmed from the CCTV footage that the bag the deceased was carrying exploded as he was walking in front of the High School.

West Bengal bomb blast: One killed near school, probe underway

If you have ever had Bengali food, you must have tried Aloo posto. The dish made of boiled potatoes mixed with poppy seed paste, has been a staple in every Bengali household for years. It is one of the most preferred comfort foods for the community. Usually consumed with steaming hot rice and perhaps a dash of green chilies, Aloo posto is the go-to dish on a day when the heart craves for comfort food. While Bengali cuisine has distinct characteristics and styles of making, depending on where it originated, East or West Bengal, Posto, over the years, has been a unanimous favourite. The much-loved dish, however, has a dark past. Posto or poppy seeds came to India due to the opium trade by the British.&nbsp;<h2>Opium trade and lack of options</h2>Once used as a recreational drug in Emperor Akbar's court, opium was discovered by the British soon after the Battle of Plassey in 1757. The British realised opium had a huge illegal market in China and decided to grow in Bengal, known for its fertile soil. Farmers across the region were forced by the British to grow opium in large quantities, which was harvested and sold in the Chinese black market as a drug. China was a big consumer of opium, even though it was illegal to buy or consume it openly.&nbsp;The poppy seed-pods and their latex are the narcotic parts of the opium plant.&nbsp;<h2>Journey from the black market to the kitchen</h2>&nbsp;As the British found a way to double its income, it robbed scores of households in Bengal of their staple crop, which would also be consumed at home with rice. With many men landing in opium induced haze, the women of these farming communities had to make do with what was available. They scurried through forests, by the ponds, in the groves, desperately looking to supplement their families' meager meals. And then stumbled upon mountains of dried poppy seeds, discarded as waste by their colonial overlords.&nbsp;What women used was the dried residual of the harvested crop- basically the&nbsp;seed pods and the latex in them, once it had completely dried out.&nbsp;Posto, or poppy seeds, were typically ground to a thick paste and then mixed with salt and a dash of mustard oil, and mixed with whichever vegetable was available, not just the potatoes, and consumed with panta bhat (fermented rice). The popularity of the dish united villages on both sides of the Padma River, which divided East and West Bengal. Thus originated dishes like Aloo posto, posto bora(poppy fritters),&nbsp;posto&nbsp;bata&nbsp;(raw paste of poppy seeds) jhinge&nbsp;posto&nbsp;(ridge gourd and poppy curry), and more.&nbsp;<h2>Posto in Mughal Kitchen</h2>Much before the Britishers made opium a cash crop, it was used in Emperor Akbar’s kitchen not just as a recreational drug but also as a key ingredient to thicken rich gravies. Akbar, who was known to have a keen interest in trade and aesthetics, understood the potential of the opium plant. It was cultivated under his regime, and its vibrant crimson flowers also inspired Mughal art. Not just that, the poppy seeds are also used as a medicine and for healing purposes. But its addictive characteristic made it a potent drug, the consumption of which was in later centuries, frowned upon.&nbsp;&nbsp;While the British robbed India of resources, manpower, and money, they also unknowingly gave us one of the most treasured ingredients of all time. Posto or Khus Khus is now not only used in Bengali cuisines but also other parts of the country in some way or the other. When the British forced opium cultivation, no one could have foreseen its dominance and importance in Indian kitchens hundreds of years later. Its usage also highlights the resilience of Indians as a race, which has always managed to make do with whatever is available — sometimes out of desperation, and at other times out of curiosity.&nbsp;<h2>Aloo Posto recipe</h2>&nbsp;Now that you know the history, here the recipe of the humble, dependable aloo posto:&nbsp;&nbsp;Ingredients&nbsp;<ul><li>2 tbsp mustard oil</li><li>1 tbsp panch phoran or nigella seeds&nbsp;</li><li>2 large potatoes , peeled and cut into cubes</li><li>1 green chili, slit</li><li>1 tsp turmeric powder, optional</li><li>Salt to taste</li></ul>For the posto paste<ul><li>3 tbsp white poppy seeds, khuskhus or posto dana, soaked in ½ cup water</li><li>1 green chili</li></ul>InstructionsTo make the posto or poppy seeds paste<ul><li>Sieve the soaked poppy seeds into the smallest blender jar. Add 1 chopped green chilli and some water to help the grinding.</li><li>Grind to a fine paste</li></ul>To make the aloo posto<ul><li>Heat mustard oil in a flat pan or wok. Bring it to a simmer at medium heat and then reduce the heat to low.</li><li>Add panch phoran or nigella seeds to the hot oil&nbsp;</li><li>When the seeds start to sputter, add the chopped potatoes. Mix well till all the potatoes are coated with oil and spices.</li><li>Cover and cook on low heat for 5 minutes.</li><li>Add the posto paste, turmeric, and slit green chillies. Add ½ cup of water and mix everything well. Cover and cook for another 8-10 mins on low heat. Occasionally stir in between to check if the water is sufficient and the potatoes are not sticking to the bottom of the pan. Cook until the potatoes are cooked through.</li><li>Aloo posto gravy is supposed to be thick, and the potatoes are coated with the posto paste. If you want a thinner consistency, add more water in the previous step.</li><li>Serve hot with rice.&nbsp;</li></ul>&nbsp;

If you have ever had Bengali cuisine, you must have tried aloo posto- a wholesome dish made with boiled potatoes and poppy seed paste. The dish is now a staple in Bengali households; it has a dark past. 

If you have ever had Bengali food, you must have tried Aloo posto. The dish made of boiled potatoes mixed with poppy seed paste, has been a staple in every Bengali household for years. It is one of the most preferred comfort foods for the community. Usually consumed with steaming hot rice and perhaps a dash of green chilies, Aloo posto is the go-to dish on a day when the heart craves for comfort food. While Bengali cuisine has distinct characteristics and styles of making, depending on where it originated, East or West Bengal, Posto, over the years, has been a unanimous favourite. The much-loved dish, however, has a dark past. Posto or poppy seeds came to India due to the opium trade by the British. Opium trade and lack of options Once used as a recreational drug in Emperor Akbar's court, opium was discovered by the British soon after the Battle of Plassey in 1757. The British realised opium had a huge illegal market in China and decided to grow in Bengal, known for its fertile soil. Farmers across the region were forced by the British to grow opium in large quantities, which was harvested and sold in the Chinese black market as a drug. China was a big consumer of opium, even though it was illegal to buy or consume it openly. The poppy seed-pods and their latex are the narcotic parts of the opium plant. Journey from the black market to the kitchen As the British found a way to double its income, it robbed scores of households in Bengal of their staple crop, which would also be consumed at home with rice. With many men landing in opium induced haze, the women of these farming communities had to make do with what was available. They scurried through forests, by the ponds, in the groves, desperately looking to supplement their families' meager meals. And then stumbled upon mountains of dried poppy seeds, discarded as waste by their colonial overlords. What women used was the dried residual of the harvested crop- basically the seed pods and the latex in them, once it had completely dried out. Posto, or poppy seeds, were typically ground to a thick paste and then mixed with salt and a dash of mustard oil, and mixed with whichever vegetable was available, not just the potatoes, and consumed with panta bhat (fermented rice). The popularity of the dish united villages on both sides of the Padma River, which divided East and West Bengal. Thus originated dishes like Aloo posto, posto bora(poppy fritters), posto bata (raw paste of poppy seeds) jhinge posto (ridge gourd and poppy curry), and more. Posto in Mughal Kitchen Much before the Britishers made opium a cash crop, it was used in Emperor Akbar’s kitchen not just as a recreational drug but also as a key ingredient to thicken rich gravies. Akbar, who was known to have a keen interest in trade and aesthetics, understood the potential of the opium plant. It was cultivated under his regime, and its vibrant crimson flowers also inspired Mughal art. Not just that, the poppy seeds are also used as a medicine and for healing purposes. But its addictive characteristic made it a potent drug, the consumption of which was in later centuries, frowned upon. While the British robbed India of resources, manpower, and money, they also unknowingly gave us one of the most treasured ingredients of all time. Posto or Khus Khus is now not only used in Bengali cuisines but also other parts of the country in some way or the other. When the British forced opium cultivation, no one could have foreseen its dominance and importance in Indian kitchens hundreds of years later. Its usage also highlights the resilience of Indians as a race, which has always managed to make do with whatever is available — sometimes out of desperation, and at other times out of curiosity. Aloo Posto recipe Now that you know the history, here the recipe of the humble, dependable aloo posto: Ingredients 2 tbsp mustard oil 1 tbsp panch phoran or nigella seeds 2 large potatoes , peeled and cut into cubes 1 green chili, slit 1 tsp turmeric powder, optional Salt to taste For the posto paste 3 tbsp white poppy seeds, khuskhus or posto dana, soaked in ½ cup water 1 green chili Instructions To make the posto or poppy seeds paste Sieve the soaked poppy seeds into the smallest blender jar. Add 1 chopped green chilli and some water to help the grinding. Grind to a fine paste To make the aloo posto Heat mustard oil in a flat pan or wok. Bring it to a simmer at medium heat and then reduce the heat to low. Add panch phoran or nigella seeds to the hot oil When the seeds start to sputter, add the chopped potatoes. Mix well till all the potatoes are coated with oil and spices. Cover and cook on low heat for 5 minutes. Add the posto paste, turmeric, and slit green chillies. Add ½ cup of water and mix everything well. Cover and cook for another 8-10 mins on low heat. Occasionally stir in between to check if the water is sufficient and the potatoes are not sticking to the bottom of the pan. Cook until the potatoes are cooked through. Aloo posto gravy is supposed to be thick, and the potatoes are coated with the posto paste. If you want a thinner consistency, add more water in the previous step. Serve hot with rice.

If you have ever had Bengali cuisine, you must have tried aloo posto- a wholesome dish made with boiled potatoes and poppy seed paste. The dish is now a staple in Bengali households; it has a dark past.&nbsp;

Independence Day special | British opium trade to Indian kitchens; the dark history of Bengal's comfort food

A dispute over a debt turned appalling when a man allegedly bit off a part of the debtor’s ear during a heated argument between the two. The shocking incident took place in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas in a crowded market, the police said on Friday (Aug 8). The ordeal happened on Thursday (Aug 7) evening when Govinda Mandal, a poultry shop owner, confronted Himadri Barman regarding the money he owed.&nbsp;According to an India Today report, Barman borrowed the money from Mandal some time ago. During the recent dispute, which happened in Swarupkathi Bazar of Hingalganj town at around 5 pm, things escalated to a physical altercation.&nbsp;Eyewitnesses said that Mandal suddenly grabbed Barman and bit off a part of his outer ear, then threw it away. Barman collapsed and was bleeding profusely. The locals intervened and helped calm the situation. They caught Mandal until the police arrived on the scene.&nbsp;“We informed the authorities and ensured Mandal was handed over to the police. The law must take its course, and the guilty must be punished,” local resident Subhash Chandra Gayen told India Today.Barman was rushed to a local doctor, who recommended immediate transfer to Sandel Bill Rural Hospital for further treatment. According to the doctors, his condition is critical but stable. The bit off portion of the ear could not be attached as it was thrown away by the accused.&nbsp;Barman has demanded strict punishment for Mandal for his shocking actions. The level of brutality of the incident has stunned the locals, who said that while they have seen fights in the bustling market before, but “nothing like this.”&nbsp;The report added that Mandal has been arrested by the police and is expected to be produced in court. An investigation is underway as the police are recording statements from the witnesses. “A case has been registered, and we are conducting an investigation. The accused is in custody,” a police official confirmed to the outlet.

In a bizarre incident, a man bit off another's ear over a heated dispute in a crowded market in West Bengal.

A dispute over a debt turned appalling when a man allegedly bit off a part of the debtor’s ear during a heated argument between the two. The shocking incident took place in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas in a crowded market, the police said on Friday (Aug 8). The ordeal happened on Thursday (Aug 7) evening when Govinda Mandal, a poultry shop owner, confronted Himadri Barman regarding the money he owed. According to an India Today report, Barman borrowed the money from Mandal some time ago. During the recent dispute, which happened in Swarupkathi Bazar of Hingalganj town at around 5 pm, things escalated to a physical altercation. Eyewitnesses said that Mandal suddenly grabbed Barman and bit off a part of his outer ear, then threw it away. Barman collapsed and was bleeding profusely. The locals intervened and helped calm the situation. They caught Mandal until the police arrived on the scene. “We informed the authorities and ensured Mandal was handed over to the police. The law must take its course, and the guilty must be punished,” local resident Subhash Chandra Gayen told India Today. Barman was rushed to a local doctor, who recommended immediate transfer to Sandel Bill Rural Hospital for further treatment. According to the doctors, his condition is critical but stable. The bit off portion of the ear could not be attached as it was thrown away by the accused. Barman has demanded strict punishment for Mandal for his shocking actions. The level of brutality of the incident has stunned the locals, who said that while they have seen fights in the bustling market before, but “nothing like this.” The report added that Mandal has been arrested by the police and is expected to be produced in court. An investigation is underway as the police are recording statements from the witnesses. “A case has been registered, and we are conducting an investigation. The accused is in custody,” a police official confirmed to the outlet.

In a bizarre incident, a man bit off another's ear over a heated dispute in a crowded market in West Bengal.

SHOCKING! Man bites off ear of another in West Bengal’s crowded market

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took several pot shots at the Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government on Friday and targeted the Trinamool Congress leadership for atrocities against women, failure to provide employment opportunities leading to migration of youth, lack of development, violence and riots, and alleged administrative inaction in the state. Addressing a rally in Durgapur on Friday, PM Modi pointed out the atrocities against women in the state and accused the state government of shielding the culprit who raped and killed a doctor in RG Kar hospital.Sanjoy Roy, a former Kolkata Police civic volunteer, was sentenced to life in jail for the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor in August last year.&nbsp;“You all have seen how, when a young doctor was subjected to atrocities here, the TMC government got involved in protecting the culprits. The country hadn’t even recovered from that incident when a horrific crime was committed against another young woman in another college. In that case too, the accused were found to have links with the TMC,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>‘Youth of West Bengal forced to migrate to other states even for small jobs’</h2>&nbsp;Criticising the ruling TMC for failing to provide employment opportunities, the PM said, “The youth of West Bengal are being forced to migrate to other states even for small jobs.”“The people want change. They want development. Bengal desires transformation,” he said and promised a shift in the state’s economic trajectory if the BJP comes to power. “Once the BJP government is formed, Bengal can become one of the top industrial states in the country within a few years,” Modi said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | West Bengal | Addressing a public rally in Durgapur, PM Narendra Modi says, &quot;Today the youth of West Bengal is forced to migrate to other states. Even for small works, the youth has to go to other states...Today, instead of new industries coming here, the old ones are… <a href="https://t.co/fuCLEjgjBt">pic.twitter.com/fuCLEjgjBt</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1946172301013369288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The PM said that the TMC government is standing like a wall between Bengal and development.“The TMC government is a barrier to Bengal’s development. Real change will only come when the TMC government is gone.”&nbsp;Citing riots and violence as hurdles to investments, Modi said, “How can anyone invest in a place where there is no hope for justice? Where riots like those in Murshidabad occur over trivial matters and the police act with bias.”&nbsp;“Money is being demanded from businessmen. The ‘Gunda Tax’ of TMC obstructs investment in the state,” he alleged.&nbsp;<h2>‘Infiltration is being encouraged by TMC for its own benefit’</h2>&nbsp;The PM also accused the Mamata government of encouraging infiltration in the state and said, “For its own benefit, the TMC government has put the identity of West Bengal at stake. Infiltration is being encouraged in the state.”“Fake documents are being made for the infiltrators... This is a big threat to West Bengal and the country... In the politics of appeasement, TMC is crossing all limits... Action will be taken against those who are not citizens of the nation,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | West Bengal | Addressing a public rally in Durgapur, PM Narendra Modi says, &quot;...For its own benefit, the TMC government has put the identity of West Bengal at stake. Infiltration is being encouraged in the state. Fake documents are being made for the infiltrators... This… <a href="https://t.co/8E3HoEaKw6">pic.twitter.com/8E3HoEaKw6</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1946182878217592953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Modi further said wherever there is a BJP government, Bengalis are respected there, and added that for BJP, Bengali ‘ashmita’ is supreme. Mamata alleged during a protest march on Wednesday that BJP-ruled states were conducting drives to detain Bengali-speaking workers as per a secret directive of the Centre.&nbsp;Continuing his attack on TMC, Modi said that the West Bengal government stands as a wall obstructing the state’s development.“The day this wall of the TMC government falls, from that day Bengal will catch a new pace of development. Only when the TMC government goes will real change come,” he said.In a bid to sway the people of Bengal ahead of assembly polls next year, the PM said Bengal’s problems can be solved when it gets a new government.&nbsp;PM Modi launched a slew of development projects worth Rs 5,400 crore in West Bengal, unveiling major initiatives across the oil and gas, power, rail, and road sectors aimed at boosting infrastructure, connectivity, and clean energy in the region.

PM Modi accused the Mamata government of encouraging infiltration in the state and said fake documents are being made for infiltrators and TMC is crossing all limits in the politics of appeasement. He also assured that action will be taken against those who are not citizens of the nation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took several pot shots at the Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government on Friday and targeted the Trinamool Congress leadership for atrocities against women, failure to provide employment opportunities leading to migration of youth, lack of development, violence and riots, and alleged administrative inaction in the state. Addressing a rally in Durgapur on Friday, PM Modi pointed out the atrocities against women in the state and accused the state government of shielding the culprit who raped and killed a doctor in RG Kar hospital. Sanjoy Roy, a former Kolkata Police civic volunteer, was sentenced to life in jail for the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor in August last year. “You all have seen how, when a young doctor was subjected to atrocities here, the TMC government got involved in protecting the culprits. The country hadn’t even recovered from that incident when a horrific crime was committed against another young woman in another college. In that case too, the accused were found to have links with the TMC,” he said. ‘Youth of West Bengal forced to migrate to other states even for small jobs’ Criticising the ruling TMC for failing to provide employment opportunities, the PM said, “The youth of West Bengal are being forced to migrate to other states even for small jobs.” “The people want change. They want development. Bengal desires transformation,” he said and promised a shift in the state’s economic trajectory if the BJP comes to power. “Once the BJP government is formed, Bengal can become one of the top industrial states in the country within a few years,” Modi said.

PM Modi accused the Mamata government of encouraging infiltration in the state and said fake documents are being made for infiltrators and TMC is crossing all limits in the politics of appeasement. He also assured that action will be taken against those who are not citizens of the nation.

‘Women not safe in Bengal, youth forced to migrate’: PM Modi attacks Mamata govt

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday (Jul 16) slammed Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking people. While addressing a protest rally in Kolkata, Banerjee took aim at the BJP-ruled, claiming that people were being harassed based on language, identity, and political bias. The chief minister was speaking at a protest march, where thousands of people joined.&nbsp;“The BJP calls all Bengali-speaking people Bangladeshi Rohingyas,” Banerjee said. “If someone speaks Bengali, you think you can call them Bangladeshi-Rohingya?... Bangladeshis are in Bangladesh, and Rohingyas live in Myanmar. What do we have here? Just West Bengal citizens. They have ID cards, Aadhar Cards, and PAN Cards. They work outside of West Bengal because they have skills…”&nbsp;She further said, “Is West Bengal not in India? Is it not a part of the country? There are many states where only one language is spoken. This does not mean that those people must be jailed... When Hindi speakers were ousted from Maharashtra, we were the first to raise a voice... We respect all the people from different states who live here, whether they are labourers, businessmen, shopkeepers, hawkers, or employees. We will never attack them because they are a part of us and our country. We love them. We respect every language.”&nbsp;She also alleged that the names of Bengali voters are being removed from the states. “They are removing names as the elections approach. There is the Election Commission, and we respect it. But if someone works for the BJP, then we will not let it go. They removed 30.5 lakh voters in Bihar. This is how they won in Maharashtra and Delhi. They are planning the same for Bihar. They want to do the same in Bengal, but we will fight inch by inch.”&nbsp;<h2>Why are protests being held in West Bengal?</h2>&nbsp;Ahead of the assembly election in West Bengal, which is expected to be held in March-April 2026, Trinamool Congress (TMC) is holding protest rallies over alleged systematic discrimination and attempts to brand Bengali speakers as “illegal immigrants”. This comes after a series of incidents recently, including the detention of migrant workers in Odisha, eviction drives in Delhi, and a notice issued to a farmer in Cooch Behar by a foreigners’ tribunal in Assam.&nbsp;The 3-km-long route began at the College Square in central Kolkata around 1:45 pm and will terminate at Dorina Crossing in Dharmatala. Nearly 1,500 police personnel have been deployed to guard the barricaded pavements and adjacent buildings. The traffic was diverted along multiple arterial roads in the central parts due to the march.&nbsp;The protests in West Bengal are being held ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to West Bengal on July 18. Similar demonstrations were held by the TMC in the district headquarters towns across the state.

Ahead of the assembly election in West Bengal, which is expected to be held in March-April 2026, Trinamool Congress (TMC) is holding protest rallies over alleged systematic discrimination and attempts to brand Bengali speakers as “illegal immigrants”.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday (Jul 16) slammed Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking people. While addressing a protest rally in Kolkata, Banerjee took aim at the BJP-ruled, claiming that people were being harassed based on language, identity, and political bias. The chief minister was speaking at a protest march, where thousands of people joined. “The BJP calls all Bengali-speaking people Bangladeshi Rohingyas,” Banerjee said. “If someone speaks Bengali, you think you can call them Bangladeshi-Rohingya?... Bangladeshis are in Bangladesh, and Rohingyas live in Myanmar. What do we have here? Just West Bengal citizens. They have ID cards, Aadhar Cards, and PAN Cards. They work outside of West Bengal because they have skills…” She further said, “Is West Bengal not in India? Is it not a part of the country? There are many states where only one language is spoken. This does not mean that those people must be jailed... When Hindi speakers were ousted from Maharashtra, we were the first to raise a voice... We respect all the people from different states who live here, whether they are labourers, businessmen, shopkeepers, hawkers, or employees. We will never attack them because they are a part of us and our country. We love them. We respect every language.” She also alleged that the names of Bengali voters are being removed from the states. “They are removing names as the elections approach. There is the Election Commission, and we respect it. But if someone works for the BJP, then we will not let it go. They removed 30.5 lakh voters in Bihar. This is how they won in Maharashtra and Delhi. They are planning the same for Bihar. They want to do the same in Bengal, but we will fight inch by inch.” Why are protests being held in West Bengal? Ahead of the assembly election in West Bengal, which is expected to be held in March-April 2026, Trinamool Congress (TMC) is holding protest rallies over alleged systematic discrimination and attempts to brand Bengali speakers as “illegal immigrants”. This comes after a series of incidents recently, including the detention of migrant workers in Odisha, eviction drives in Delhi, and a notice issued to a farmer in Cooch Behar by a foreigners’ tribunal in Assam. The 3-km-long route began at the College Square in central Kolkata around 1:45 pm and will terminate at Dorina Crossing in Dharmatala. Nearly 1,500 police personnel have been deployed to guard the barricaded pavements and adjacent buildings. The traffic was diverted along multiple arterial roads in the central parts due to the march. The protests in West Bengal are being held ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to West Bengal on July 18. Similar demonstrations were held by the TMC in the district headquarters towns across the state.

Ahead of the assembly election in West Bengal, which is expected to be held in March-April 2026, Trinamool Congress (TMC) is holding protest rallies over alleged systematic discrimination and attempts to brand Bengali speakers as “illegal immigrants”.

‘Is West Bengal not in India?’ Mamata Banerjee slams BJP at protest rally ahead of PM Modi’s visit to state

An Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Calcutta student was allegedly raped by a fellow student inside the boys' hostel of the business school, the police said on Saturday. The accused was arrested by the Haridevpur Police Station.&nbsp;&nbsp;A police officer said that the accused called the victim for a counselling session and made her consume a drink laced with drugs inside the hostel. He raped her after she lost consciousness.&nbsp;"The woman stated in the FIR that she was called to the hostel for a counselling session. She then became unconscious after consuming a drink laced with drugs at the hostel. The woman realised she had been raped after regaining consciousness," the police officer said.&nbsp;The victim said the accused later threatened her with dire consequences if she disclosed the matter to anyone.&nbsp;"The accused student was detained last night before being formally arrested," he added.&nbsp;The incident comes two weeks after a law student was gang-raped inside the South Calcutta Law College campus in Kolkata.&nbsp;The incident took place on June 25, when a student was allegedly gangraped inside the South Calcutta Law College in the Kasba area of Kolkata.&nbsp;Five days later, on June 30, Kolkata Police said that the three main accused in the case were arrested in less than 12 hours.&nbsp;On July 9, the Alipore court sent all four accused in the South Kolkata Law College gangrape case to 14 days of judicial custody.

An Indian Institute of Management Calcutta student was allegedly raped by a fellow student inside the boys' hostel of the business school, the police said on Saturday. The accused has been arrested by the Haridevpur Police Station. 

An Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Calcutta student was allegedly raped by a fellow student inside the boys' hostel of the business school, the police said on Saturday. The accused was arrested by the Haridevpur Police Station. A police officer said that the accused called the victim for a counselling session and made her consume a drink laced with drugs inside the hostel. He raped her after she lost consciousness. "The woman stated in the FIR that she was called to the hostel for a counselling session. She then became unconscious after consuming a drink laced with drugs at the hostel. The woman realised she had been raped after regaining consciousness," the police officer said. The victim said the accused later threatened her with dire consequences if she disclosed the matter to anyone. "The accused student was detained last night before being formally arrested," he added. The incident comes two weeks after a law student was gang-raped inside the South Calcutta Law College campus in Kolkata. The incident took place on June 25, when a student was allegedly gangraped inside the South Calcutta Law College in the Kasba area of Kolkata. Five days later, on June 30, Kolkata Police said that the three main accused in the case were arrested in less than 12 hours. On July 9, the Alipore court sent all four accused in the South Kolkata Law College gangrape case to 14 days of judicial custody.

Rape in IIM-Calcutta: The victim said the accused later threatened her with dire consequences if she disclosed the matter to anyone.

IIM-Calcutta student raped inside boys' hostel | What police said

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