West Bengal celebrates Modi’s birthday with one lakh diyas and a life-size statue
On September 17, 2026, the West Bengal government held multiple events to celebrate Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday, including lighting one lakh diyas across Kolkata and unveiling a life-size statue of him at the Bharatiya Janata Party office. The state also observed the day as ‘Annapurna Divas’ and launched the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, aiming to provide houses under Awas Yojana with women as owners. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari highlighted plans for 50 lakh names in West Bengal’s housing scheme and discussed efforts to support traditional artisans through the Vishwakarma Bill. Various programs were organized across districts, including diya lighting events at Ganga ghats and temple visits by party leaders.
Modi initiates list of 50 lakh PM Awaas Yojana beneficiaries in West Bengal
On Thursday, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has initiated the preparation of a list of 50 lakh beneficiaries under the PM Awaas Yojana in West Bengal. New houses will be owned by women. Additionally, September 17 will be celebrated as 'Annapurna Divas' to honor the Annapurna Yojana, which provides financial assistance to women. Adhikari also highlighted a commission set up to address atrocities against women and called for an addiction-free state.
Election Commission bars Trinamool Congress factions from using name and symbol
On September 17, 2026, the Election Commission of India barred both factions of the Trinamool Congress, led by Mamata Banerjee and Ritabrata Banerjee, from using the party name and symbol in upcoming Assembly bypolls. The commission asked them to submit alternative names and symbols by September 18 at 11 a.m., citing two rival groups claiming to be the party. This decision came after hearings on September 12 and 17, with scrutiny of nominations ending that day for bypolls scheduled on October 6. The Congress condemned this move as harmful to democracy.
Nurse Madhumita Attacked with Acid, Machete by Estranged Husband Venkatesh
On Thursday morning around 9:15 am, Madhumita, a 26-year-old nurse from Kolkata, was allegedly attacked with acid and a machete by her estranged husband Venkatesh near a clinic in Bengaluru. The attack occurred after she stepped out for breakfast; Venkatesh had been waiting on a motorcycle. Madhumita is critically injured and hospitalized. Police intervened and arrested Venkatesh, who has been questioned about the motive behind the assault.
Supreme Court hears bail plea by Biswanath Mandal in 252.330 kg ganja case
On Wednesday, the Supreme Court observed that it is very liberal in granting bail for marijuana cases while hearing a plea by Biswanath Mandal, accused of possessing 252.330 kg of ganja. Mandal challenged the Calcutta High Court's February 13 order rejecting his anticipatory bail application, arguing he was not present during the seizure and there is no evidence linking him to the contraband. He seeks interim protection from the FIR operation until his appeal is heard.
Blast in Murshidabad: BJP leader alleges opposition stockpiling weapons before bypolls
On Tuesday evening, an explosion occurred in the Naopukuria area of Murshidabad district, West Bengal, near Rejinagar assembly constituency, weeks before the October 6 bypoll. Police recovered bombs from a container; no casualties were reported. A Beldanga police officer said a brick falling on the container caused the blast. Malay Mahajan, BJP Baharampur president, alleged opposition parties stockpile weapons ahead of elections. Rejinagar and Nandigram are scheduled for bypolls on October 6.
Congress Snubs Banerjee, Declares Candidates for Bengal Bypolls Alone
Mamata Banerjee's alliance pitch to the Congress for upcoming Bengal bypolls has failed after the Congress decided to contest alone. Reports suggest Banerjee proposed an alliance but did not receive a response from KC Venugopal. The Congress, led by WBPCC Chief Subhankar Sarkar, declared its candidates and cited potential risks of aligning with the Trinamool due to symbol disputes. The bypolls in Nandigram and Rejinagar are scheduled for October 6.
Gogoi Accuses BJP of AIUDF Alliance in Nagaon Bypoll Race
On Tuesday, Gaurav Gogoi, president of Assam Pradesh Congress Committee, expressed confidence in his party's chances for winning the Nagaon Lok Sabha bypoll and accused the BJP of seeking help from the AIUDF after fielding former MLA Sibamoni Bora. The BJP nominated Devasish Sharma as its candidate, while the AIUDF chose Badruddin Ajmal. Gogoi questioned the neutrality of election officials involved in pre-poll activities and called for their transfer to ensure a fair process. The bypoll is scheduled for October 6 with results on October 9.
BJP announces Hasirani Rath as candidate for Nandigram by-election
The BJP announced Hasirani Rath as its candidate for the Nandigram by-election and Shakharav Sarkar for Rejinagar, ending weeks of speculation. Rath is the mother of late Chandranath Rath, who served Suvendu Adhikari and was murdered in May. She will file nomination papers today with Adhikari's support. By-elections are scheduled for October 6.
Panel Considers Renaming Kolkata Roads Post-Durga Puja
A committee headed by Swami Pradiptananda and including Tathagata Roy, a senior BJP leader, is considering renaming roads in West Bengal, particularly three Kolkata thoroughfares named after communist leaders Vladimir Lenin, Karl Marx, and Ho Chi Minh. The panel will meet post-Durga Puja to discuss proposals like renaming Karl Marx Sarani after Bengali poet Michael Madhusudan Dutt or mathematician Debaprasad Ghosh for Lenin Sarani. TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh criticized the move as "vendetta politics." No decisions have been finalized yet, with recommendations pending post-festivals and expected to be sent to the state Assembly.
TMC Split Heats Up: Two Factions Nominate Opposing Candidates for Byelections
On September 14, 2026, the Ritabrata Banerjee-led rebel TMC faction named Mohammad Eteshamul Haque and Safiuzzaman Sheikh as candidates for the October 6 byelections in Nandigram and Rejinagar respectively. This move follows an unresolved dispute with the Mamata Banerjee-led camp over party control, symbol, and name. The rival Mamata faction had already nominated Sanchita Pradhan (Dey) and Rabiul Alam Chowdhury for these seats on September 13, setting up a direct contest between the two factions.
Shah and Adhikari Raise Concerns Over Illegal Madrasas in West Bengal
Amit Shah and Subhendu Adhikari have raised concerns over illegal madrasas in West Bengal, following intelligence reports suggesting some are being used for terrorist activities. In Islampur and Haripal, structures lack classes or teachers; one has become a banana plantation. Adhikari ordered reviews to identify legal institutions and their activities, sparking protests from Muslim organizations.
On Monday, Jagadish Chandra Barma Basunia, a rebel TMC leader and Cooch
On Monday, Jagadish Chandra Barma Basunia, a rebel TMC leader and Cooch Behar MP, claimed that 17 of the 20 Lok Sabha members aligned with the Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI) would join the BJP before or after Durga Puja. This claim was disputed by fellow dissidents and denied by the BJP's West Bengal unit chief Samik Bhattacharya, who said the party would not take in anyone merely because they want to join it. The TMC leadership, headed by Mamata Banerjee, has sought disqualification of these MPs from Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and the Supreme Court.
TMC MP Claims 17 NCPI Members to Join BJP, Triggering Disqualification Threats
On September 14, 2026, Jagadish Chandra Barma Basunia, a rebel TMC leader and Cooch Behar MP, claimed that 17 of the 20 NCPI-aligned Lok Sabha members would join the BJP before or after Durga Puja. This claim was disputed by fellow dissidents and denied by Samik Bhattacharya from the BJP. The TMC leadership has sought disqualification of these MPs under anti-defection laws, while the legal status of their group remains contested.
Samirul Islam, a Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP, wrote to Chief Election
On September 14, 2026, Samirul Islam, a Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP, wrote to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar urging the Election Commission to address grievances of voters whose names were deleted during the Special Intensive Revision exercise. Nearly 25 lakh appeals have been filed, affecting thousands in Rejinagar and Nandigram, scheduled for bypolls on October 6 with counting on October 9. Mr. Islam asked the EC to expedite decisions or seek Supreme Court modifications if necessary to ensure no eligible voter is disenfranchised again.
West Bengal Closes 252 Madrasas, Sparking Education Policy Debate
The West Bengal government issued closure notices to 252 unaided and unrecognised madrasas, while another hundred received show-cause notices. A survey conducted by the district administration across 22 districts identified these institutions based on teacher-student ratios, infrastructure, and funds. Minister Kshudiram Tudu announced that 44 are in Malda, 37 in Uttar Dinajpur, and others distributed among South 24 Parganas, Nadia, and Murshidabad. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari plans a 'One State, One Education' policy, bringing Aliah University under the Higher Education Ministry. BJP leaders welcomed the move, while Trinamool Congress MLA Kunal Ghosh criticized it as targeting an existing education system. Published September 14, 2026.
Trinamool Congress Announces Candidates for Nandigram and Rejinagar Bypolls
On September 13, 2026, the Trinamool Congress announced candidates for Nandigram and Rejinagar bypolls scheduled for October 6. The Mamata-led faction fielded Sanchita Pradhan (Dey) from Nandigram and Rabiul Alam Chowdhury from Rejinagar, a day after Ritabrata Banerjee's faction said it would not contest if Mamata Banerjee ran. Opposition parties also nominated candidates as the factions compete over the party symbol with EC officials in Delhi.
CPI(M) counters Adhikari: Uploads photos of Indian icon books at Durga Puja stalls
On September 13, 2026, CPI(M) leaders hit back at West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, who had criticized the party’s bookstalls at Durga Puja pandals for selling foreign communist literature while ignoring Indian icons. Mr. Adhikari accused CPI(M) of not including works by Swami Vivekananda and other Indian figures, prompting a reaction from CPI(M) that defended their stalls as offering diverse subjects, including Indian icons. They uploaded photos showing books on Indian figures available at the stalls.
On 13 September 2026, Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi met with high-level
On 13 September 2026, Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi met with high-level Bangladeshi officials including Adviser Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman and Minister of Water Resources Mr. Md. Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee to discuss normalizing ties and addressing issues like the Ganges Water Sharing Treaty set to expire in December 2026. Both sides expressed optimism for enhancing people-to-people relations despite recent diplomatic hiccups.
Opposition-led states skip BRICS meet over budget protest or prior engagements
Leaders of opposition-ruled states, including V D Satheesan (Kerala), Revanth Reddy (Telangana), and Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu (Himachal Pradesh), skipped the two-day BRICS meet in New Delhi due to prior engagements or protest over the Union budget. Six BJP-ruled states' Chief Ministers attended, including Yogi Adityanath (Uttar Pradesh) and Devendra Fadnavis (Maharashtra). The Congress slammed the meet for not addressing issues like Arunachal's occupation by China and the Pahalgam terror attack.
Opposition faces TMC's Sanchita Pradhan and Rabiul Alam in West Bengal by-elections
On Sunday, the All India Trinamool Congress announced Sanchita Pradhan (Dey) for Nandigram and Rabiul Alam Chowdhury for Rejinagar in upcoming West Bengal Legislative Assembly by-elections on October 6. The candidates were chosen under Mamata Banerjee's guidance. Opposition parties also nominated their own candidates: Mohd. Abdullahil Kafi from Congress, Milan Pradhan from Congress, Advocate Sayeed Asad Ali from CPI(M), and Shanti Gopal Giri from CPI. Nandigram by-elections followed Suvendu Adhikari’s resignation, while Rejinagar's were necessitated by Humayun Kabir’s resignation.
Trinamool Factions Battle Over 'Jora Phool' Symbol; EC Sets Deadline for Evidence
A 'symbol war' between two factions of the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, one led by Ritabrata Banerjee and the other loyal to former chief minister Mamata Banerjee, is ongoing. The Election Commission held meetings with both sides in New Delhi on Saturday and granted Mamata until Wednesday at 3 pm to submit additional evidence. Both factions claim control over the party's 'jora phool' symbol, crucial for upcoming by-elections including Nandigram. The EC will hear final submissions on Thursday if necessary.
The Election Commission of India extended the deadline to 3 p.m
The Election Commission of India extended the deadline to 3 p.m. on September 16 for Mamata Banerjee and Ritabrata Banerjee to submit additional documents supporting their claims to the Trinamool Congress’s election symbol, amid the nomination process closing for October 6 by-elections in Nandigram and Rejinagar. Mamata's camp submitted fresh organizational election documents from 2015, 2017, and 2022, while Ritabrata failed to provide supporting documentation since July 2. The Commission is likely to freeze the party symbol temporarily based on a precedent set in the Shiv Sena case.
Congress Leader Summoned Over Alleged Burning of Shastri Photo at Protest
On September 13, 2026, Ashutosh Chatterjee, West Bengal Congress general secretary, was summoned by the Bhawanipur police over alleged burning of a photograph of Dhirendra Krishna Shastri during a protest on September 8 in south Kolkata. The protest followed remarks made by Mr. Shastri about Bengalis and their culture. Atanu Das was arrested earlier; Chatterjee and Pradip Prasad were named as accused. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari directed police to arrest those involved, asserting such acts would not be tolerated. Chatterjee said the Congress would oppose any demeaning of Bengali traditions.
Police Rescue 800 Children in Two Hours Across Karnataka
On Saturday, police teams and Labour Department officials inspected 16,951 premises across Karnataka and rescued 800 children in two hours. Bengaluru alone accounted for 503 rescues, with inspections covering markets, eateries, workshops, construction sites, garages, welding shops, and small industrial establishments. The crackdown followed Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar's visit to APMC Yard where 19 children were found working. Police registered 18 cases under the Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, and the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015. Rescued children from Karnataka, Bihar, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Assam, Jharkhand, and Nepal were handed over to the Child Welfare Committee for rehabilitation.
BRICS negotiators reach consensus on New Delhi Declaration calling for "maximum restraint"
On September 12, 2026, the first day of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi saw negotiators reach a consensus on the New Delhi Declaration, calling for "maximum restraint" without mentioning U.S. strikes or Russia's war in Ukraine. Chinese President Xi Jinping skipped the gala dinner hosted by Indian Prime Minister Modi, while Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim performed a Bollywood song. The dinner featured Indian cuisine and cultural performances.
Suvendu Adhikari Inaugurates Ganesh Puja, Criticizes Governments for Neglecting Hindu Practices
On September 12, 2026, Suvendu Adhikari, Chief Minister of West Bengal, inaugurated Ganesh Puja in Kolkata and highlighted the plight of incarcerated Bangladeshi Hindu monk Chinmoy Das. Adhikari criticized previous governments for neglecting traditional Hindu practices and promised to restore cultural traditions.
Traditional Durga Pujas Reject Godman's Veg-only Call, Stick to Non-vegetarian Ways
Srimant Roy Chowdhury and Prabir Krishna Deb, representing Kolkata’s traditional Bonedi Bari Durga Pujas, rejected Bageshwar Baba's call for vegetarian-only practices. These pujas, some over 400 years old, will continue their non-vegetarian traditions despite the self-styled godman's criticism. The debate intensified as Durga Puja approaches in September 2026.
Suvendu Adhikari, West Bengal Chief Minister, addressed a summit criticizing Bageshwar Baba's
On September 12, 2026, Suvendu Adhikari, West Bengal Chief Minister, addressed a summit criticizing Bageshwar Baba's comments on non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja. Adhikari emphasized constitutional freedom in choosing religious practices and food habits, defending his own consumption of fish at Kalighat temple while promising to eat vegetarian food at Baghbazar Gaudiya Math on Radha Ashtami.
Mamata Banerjee Considers Contesting West Bengal By-Election from Nandigram
Mamata Banerjee is considering contesting the upcoming West Bengal Assembly by-election from Nandigram on October 6, following her defeat in Bhabanipur to BJP's Suvendu Adhikari. Ritabrata Banerjee, leader of the rebel TMC faction, stated they won't field a candidate if she contests but also invited her back to work together for development. The rebels' candidate selection remains undisclosed. This move could either ease tensions or escalate conflict within the TMC.
BJP Chief Minister Accuses Left Front and TMC of Suppressing Hindu Traditions for Decades
On September 12, 2026, Suvendu Adhikari, West Bengal Chief Minister, asserted that the BJP government aims to restore Bengali Hindu cultural traditions after inaugurating a Ganesh Puja. He accused previous Left Front and TMC governments of undermining these traditions for nearly five decades. Adhikari highlighted the plight of Bangladeshi Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das Prabhu, alleging that traditional practices were suppressed during Left rule, while religious texts by Marx and Lenin were promoted at Puja pandals. He also criticized TMC's efforts to create divisions among people based on religion and festivals.
Crammed rooms, poor safety: Delhi PGs promise luxury from Rs 8,500
NDTV investigated PG accommodations in Delhi's Kamla Nagar, finding sales pitches focused on amenities but not safety. Brokers showed cramped rooms with poor ventilation and hygiene issues despite promises of fully furnished stays starting at Rs 8,500. Owners often lacked proper fire safety measures or evacuation plans.
RPF, GRP nab four with 10 kg ganja as Nedumbassery police arrest Abhinav Raj
On September 11, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) arrested four individuals—Buddha Debu Mondal, Suman Choudary, Akash Babu, and Athul Santhosh—at Ernakulam Junction with 10 kg of suspected ganja. Meanwhile, the Nedumbassery police arrested Abhinav Raj in connection with a July MDMA seizure case.
Major parties fail to disclose criminal backgrounds of 191 candidates in five states elections
The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) found that major political parties, including the BJP, Congress, and AAP, failed to comply with mandatory Format C7 disclosures explaining the selection of 191 candidates with criminal backgrounds in the 2026 Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Puducherry. The BJP did not provide details for eight out of 302 candidates, while the Congress failed to do so for 13 out of 202 contestants. In contrast, the Trinamool Congress provided full disclosures for all its 116 candidates. Puducherry recorded the poorest compliance level with only 12 of 39 candidates disclosing their details. The analysis covered 8,848 contesting candidates across five elections and found parties frequently justified selecting candidates with criminal cases as popular social workers or experienced politicians.
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari eats fish at Kalighat temple despite priest's criticism
At Kalighat temple in Kolkata, Suvendu Adhikari, West Bengal's Chief Minister, ate fish during Kaushiki Amavasya despite a Hindu priest, Dhirendra Shastri, criticizing non-vegetarian consumption during Durga Puja. The BJP supported Adhikari, stating it respects Bengal’s traditions and dietary choices. This comes amid protests over Shastri's remarks that Bengali Hindus consuming non-veg are hypocrites.
Supreme Court Refuses Anticipatory Bail to Sumit Roy in Salboni Land Grab Case
On September 10, 2026, the Supreme Court refused anticipatory bail to Sumit Roy, personal assistant to TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee, in the Salboni land grab case. Represented by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, the West Bengal government argued for custodial interrogation due to evasive answers and alleged ₹15 crore deposits by Mr. Roy. Senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan countered there was no proof of involvement. The court upheld a Calcutta High Court order denying pre-arrest bail, rejecting arguments that his questioning lacked evidence linking him directly to the case.
On September 8, five baby orangutans aged six months to a year
On September 8, five baby orangutans aged six months to a year were found in Odisha's Balasore district forest. Special Task Force (STF) is investigating using CCTV footage from at least 46 cameras and security camera recordings from railway stations and airports. The animals are being kept at Bhubaneswar Zoo, with one developing and recovering from a fever. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi ordered a probe and vowed strict action against any trafficking network.
Election chief dismisses EVM concerns, highlights India's high voluntary turnout
During a two-day tour in Gujarat, Gyanesh Kumar, Chief Election Commissioner, addressed the Ahmedabad Management Association to discuss election integrity. He dismissed concerns about Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), emphasizing their standalone operation and rigorous auditing processes, including voter roll verification by Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and mock polls before actual voting. Every vote cast is mirrored by Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs). Kumar also highlighted India's high voluntary election turnout compared to mandatory voting countries like Australia and Switzerland. The session was attended by Gujarat Chief Electoral Officer Sandeep Sagale and AMA President Rajiv Gandhi, with Kumar reinforcing operational integrity through visits and meetings across the state.
SDPO Dwipen Pator Arrested for Encouraging Oil Theft Gang
Sarupathar SDPO Dwipen Pator was arrested by Golaghat SSP Swapnil Deka in connection with a crude oil theft case involving an ONGC pipeline. The investigation revealed Pator encouraged the gang and accepted cash from them; he is one of five arrested, including a woman. Police suspect stolen oil was transported to West Bengal and plan further operations there.
RPF’s crime wing and the Palakkad Excise Enforcement and Anti-Narcotic Special Squad
On September 10, 2026, RPF’s crime wing and the Palakkad Excise Enforcement and Anti-Narcotic Special Squad arrested four men from West Bengal at Palakkad railway station, seizing over 71 kg of ganja valued at ₹35 lakh. The operation was led by RPF Inspector Girish C. and Excise Inspector Noufal. Separately, on September 2, six Odisha natives were arrested with 53.453 kg of ganja at Olavakkode. Both cases are under investigation under the NDPS Act, suspected to be part of a larger cannabis trafficking network from eastern States to Keralam.
Five baby orangutans, not native to India, were found in Odisha's Balasore
Five baby orangutans, not native to India, were found in Odisha's Balasore district forest on Tuesday. Odisha's forest minister ordered an investigation into possible trafficking by an international smuggling network. The animals, likely abandoned near a highway, were rescued and taken to Nandankanan Zoological Park for quarantine. Police, forest officials, and a special task force are involved in the inquiry. This discovery raises concerns about wildlife trafficking and conservation efforts.
New Calcutta Chief Justice Sworn In, Pledges Tech for Accessible Justice
On September 9, 2026, Justice Ravindra Vithalrao Ghuge was sworn in as the 45th Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court by West Bengal Governor R.N. Ravi. Previously a Judge of Bombay High Court and Acting Chief Justice there, he took over from acting Chief Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty following Sujoy Paul's retirement on June 20. Ghuge emphasized the importance of modern technology for accessible justice and highlighted the court’s traditions during his address at the swearing-in ceremony attended by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and Chief Secretary Manoj Agarwal.
Indian High Commissioner meets Bangladesh Minister to restart cross-border trains
On September 8, 2026, Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi met with Bangladesh's Minister for Road Transport and Bridges Shaikh Rabiul Alam in Dhaka to discuss restarting passenger train services between the two countries. Both sides emphasized strengthening connectivity as a key enabler of economic engagement. The Inter-Governmental Railway Meeting, an annual bilateral forum, is underway to fix dates for resuming three cross-border trains from Kolkata and New Jalpaiguri to Dhaka and Khulna by next month.
Election Commission sets October 6 bypoll in Nandigram amid Trinamool Congress feud
The Election Commission decided to hold a bypoll in Nandigram on October 6, with counting on October 9. The seat became vacant after BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari resigned from it. This triggers a dispute between factions of the Trinamool Congress led by Mamata Banerjee and Ritabrata Banerjee over party identity and election symbol control. Both sides have submitted claims to the Election Commission, which will determine organizational control based on evidence and legislative support under Paragraph 15 of the Election Symbols Order, 1968.
Sachin Pilot tapped to revitalize Congress in Punjab ahead of 2029 elections
Mallikarjun Kharge reshuffled the Congress leadership, appointing Sachin Pilot as AICC General Secretary in-charge of Punjab to rebuild the party's presence there. Former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi and others welcomed this move, highlighting Pilot’s endurance and ability to connect with people. The reshuffle aims to identify leaders who can manage state-level politics effectively, crucial for rebuilding the Congress ahead of 2029 elections.
Indian, Bangladeshi Railways Meet to Revive Suspended Trains; New Projects on Table
At the two-day Inter-Governmental Railway Meeting (IGRM) starting Tuesday in Dhaka, Indian and Bangladeshi railway authorities will discuss restarting the Maitree, Mitali, and Bandhan Express trains suspended since 2024 due to security concerns. If resolved, services could resume next month. Bangladesh also proposes a new Rajshahi-Kolkata train and re-routing the Dhaka-Kolkata Maitree Express via Padma Bridge. Freight transport and stalled projects are on the agenda, along with India supplying 19 LHB broad-gauge passenger coaches to Bangladesh under a Rs 915 crore deal expected to be completed by December 2027.
BJP advertisement sparks outrage in West Bengal, Trinamool demands apology
A print advertisement for the BJP's "Milan Mela" festival on September 7 featuring Durga with 11 arms instead of 10 sparked outrage in West Bengal. The Trinamool Congress criticized it as disrespectful to Bengali culture, leading Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari to apologize and promise a large government event at Eden Gardens on Mahalaya, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
By-polls announced for West Bengal's Rejinagar and Nandigram after CM Adhikari vacates seat
On Monday, the Election Commission announced by-polls for West Bengal's Rejinagar and Nandigram constituencies due to Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and AJUP founder Humayun Kabir vacating their seats. Polling is set for October 6 with counting on October 9; nominations close September 16, with the process concluding by October 11. EVMs and VVPATs will be used.
Mayawati replaces Akash Anand with Ishan Anand in BSP leadership
On September 3, Mayawati ousted her nephew Akash Anand from the National Convenor post in BSP, replacing him with his brother Ishan Anand as Chief Sector Coordinator. This move reflects Mayawati's control over party leadership and readiness for the upcoming UP assembly election.
BJP Rejects NCPI Tie-Up, Aims for Two-Thirds Majority in Kolkata Civic Polls
Samik Bhattacharya, president of West Bengal BJP, ruled out any alliance with NCPI for upcoming civic polls in Kolkata and Howrah despite 20 rebel Trinamool Congress MPs merging with NCPI. He aims for a two-thirds majority independently. NCPI's Sudip Bandyopadhyay had sought BJP approval for the tie-up but was rejected. Elections, likely after Durga Puja holidays, follow recent assembly poll defeats for Trinamool Congress and delimitation of wards increasing from 144 to 209 in Kolkata and 50 to 68 in Howrah.
India to Spend $18 Billion on Unconditional Cash Transfer Schemes in 2025-26
Since 2020, Unconditional Cash Transfer (UCT) schemes in India have aimed to attract women voters and advance SDG 5.4 by recognizing unpaid domestic work. Examples include the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam, Lakhsmir Bhandar, and Gruha Lakshmi Yojana. Despite increasing cash amounts before the 2026 elections, some governments implementing these schemes were defeated. States are projected to spend about $18 billion on UCTs in 2025-26.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari addressed a Teachers' Day
On September 5, 2026, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari addressed a Teachers' Day gathering in Kolkata, advocating for mobile phone restrictions in schools due to their negative impact on children. He also announced plans for two 'CM Shri' model schools per district and transparent teacher recruitment based on merit, following Supreme Court and Calcutta High Court directives. The government amended the OBC list, reverting it to 66 pre-2010 categories from 77.
Teacher Suspended for Asking Student to Remove Tilak in Kolkata School
A Class 5 student's parents lodged a complaint against a teacher at Holy Mission English Medium School in Kolkata, alleging she asked the boy to remove his sandalwood tilak and wash his face. The school suspended the teacher, and police registered an FIR for hurting religious sentiments and humiliating the student. Meanwhile, another government employee was suspended for posting about Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media. Published September 6, 2026.
Fire Department Orders Vacating of Abhishek Banerjee's Office Over Safety Concerns
On Friday, the West Bengal Fire Department ordered that the basement and two floors of a high-rise building housing TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee's office in central Kolkata be vacated due to lack of fire safety measures. This followed a show-cause notice after an expired certificate was not renewed. The order came amid tensions over recent incidents, including a ransacked office and clashes with authorities removing an illegal billboard.
Students in India Protest for Better School Conditions Since Late July
Students across India, including in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and other states, have protested since late July for better school conditions like new buildings and basic facilities. In Samuhi Bhatpurwa village, 122 students refused classes until promised a new building; authorities assured construction soon. Inspired by Gen Z protests, these younger "Gen Alpha" students demand reforms from the Narendra Modi government, highlighting systemic issues in India’s education system.
Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, announced a Rs
Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, announced a Rs 2,077.18 crore project to four-lane the 31.02-km Bagdogra-Panitanki-Kharibari-Galgalia section of NH-327 in Darjeeling district, including three major bridges, one ROB, five elephant underpasses, and service roads. The upgrade aims to strengthen connectivity to northeast India and Nepal while enhancing regional economic infrastructure. Raju Bista, MP for Darjeeling, welcomed the move, highlighting its strategic importance.
CSE Shares Soar to 2,175 Rupees on Finance Minister’s Revival Plans
Shares of Calcutta Stock Exchange (CSE) surged from about 900 rupees in early June to around 2,175 rupees after Swapan Dasgupta, West Bengal's finance minister, signaled plans to revive the exchange. Interest increased further following CSE’s annual report outlining a broader strategy on Aug. 19. The rally comes as the National Stock Exchange of India prepares for its IPO and highlights opportunities in various financial markets. CSE had 1,507 listed companies but no active trading until recently. (Complete sentence.
BJP accused in early morning ransack of Abhishek Banerjee's office; CM resignation called
On Thursday morning (September 3, 2026), Abhishek Banerjee's office at Camac Street was ransacked; three to four masked men removed equipment and caused vandalism around 4:30 a.m. Mr. Banerjee accused BJP supporters of the attack and called for Chief Minister's resignation, alleging political thuggery. Trinamool Congress leader Upasana Chowdhury reported police inaction despite multiple calls. The Diamond Harbour MP urged the Calcutta High Court to uphold rule of law amid escalating tensions over recent incidents involving party hoardings and unauthorised construction.
Congress leaders criticize BJP, Election Commission over voter roll manipulations in Maharashtra
On September 1, 2026, Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge of the Congress party criticized the BJP and the Election Commission for allegedly manipulating voter rolls in Maharashtra by deleting 2.07 crore names during the special intensive revision (SIR). They accused the BJP of adding fictitious voters using fake documents to ensure election victories, citing examples from West Bengal and Delhi where similar issues arose. The leaders asserted that such actions undermine democracy and vowed public action against vote theft.
Brishti Mukherjee, 28, Found Dead by Suicide in West Bengal
Brishti Mukherjee, 28, daughter of Nihar Mukherjee, cousin of former Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, died by suicide on Tuesday. Her body was found hanging at her home in Kusumba village, Birbhum district, West Bengal. She faced job scam allegations and was divorcing her husband. Suffering from depression, she had been undergoing treatment. Police are investigating the cause of death following a post-mortem examination.
Supreme Court criticizes slow ED investigations in authority cases
On August 31, 2026, the Supreme Court criticized probe agencies for slow investigations involving persons in authority but quick actions against ordinary citizens. The three-judge Bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant heard a petition filed by Sumit Roy, personal assistant to Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee, regarding the Salboni land-grabbing case. Senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan argued that questioning was off-topic, while Solicitor General Tushar Mehta sought custodial interrogation due to financial irregularities involving ₹30 crore linked to Mr. Banerjee's company Leaps and Bounds Private Limited. Justice Joymalya Bagchi expressed concern over the slow pace of investigation by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED). The Court directed ED to produce video and audio records of Roy’s questioning, with the next hearing scheduled for September 7.
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad denied reports that they advised Bengalis to follow
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad denied reports that they advised Bengalis to follow a satvik vegetarian diet during Durga Puja, clarifying the August 26 meeting with organizers was about maintaining cleanliness and cultural themes. Amiya Sarkar, VHP's eastern region secretary, stated the organization did not discuss food habits or issue fatwas. Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar supported this stance, while Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury emphasized non-vegetarian practices during Durga Puja. Trinamool's Kunal Ghosh noted that no one eats non-veg inside puja pandals but did not comment on the broader food debate.
Kolkata Police Serve Summons to Abhishek Banerjee Over Billboard Row, Directing September 1 Appearance
On Saturday night, Kolkata Police served a summons notice to Trinamool Congress general secretary and Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha member Abhishek Banerjee regarding three FIRs filed over the removal of an illegal billboard from his party office. The notice directed him to appear at Shakespeare Sarani Police Station on September 1. Two FIRs were filed against Banerjee, along with senior Trinamool leaders including Rajya Sabha member Derek O'Brien, for obstructing officials and assaulting police personnel during the incident on Thursday. Since then, 14 persons have been arrested for their involvement in the unrest.
Nepal experienced devastating flash floods, leaving many Indians stranded or missing
On August 27, 2026, Nepal experienced devastating flash floods, leaving many Indians stranded or missing. West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and other states coordinated rescue efforts; in West Bengal, a group of 32 pilgrims, including senior citizens and Sharmistha Bhowmik Roy, were untraceable after traveling from Kolkata on August 21. In Tamil Nadu, 80 members of an Isha Foundation pilgrimage group were missing. Andhra Pradesh reported seven missing or stranded individuals, while Telangana identified 23 residents in need of assistance. The Indian government and embassies worked to bring back the stranded citizens.
Flash floods strike Nepal-Tibet border; 32 Kolkata travelers vanish as over 100 die
On Wednesday, a 32-member group from Kolkata, including 30 tourists and two tour managers, went untraceable after flash floods struck the Nepal-Tibet border while they were at the immigration office in Rasuwagadhi. More than 100 people died, and over 750 remain missing due to the disaster. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari expressed anguish over the loss of lives and said the West Bengal government is coordinating with authorities to assist affected individuals. Families can contact helplines for information.
Consumers across New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Chennai have waited since
Consumers across New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Chennai have waited since mid-March for new 14.2 kg LPG cylinder connections due to the West Asia conflict. The Union Petroleum Ministry said this is a temporary measure prioritizing refills for existing users. Distributors report an average of 100-120 pending applications per state, with some suggesting smaller cylinders as alternatives. India now imports 67% of its LPG from the U.S., up from 60%. This situation is expected to resume once stability returns.
Andhra Pradesh sees light showers as monsoon remains weak
Andhra Pradesh has not received significant rainfall during the first three months of the Southwest monsoon despite low-pressure systems. The latest system, forming over Gangetic West Bengal and northwest Bay of Bengal on August 23, brought only light showers at isolated places in Andhra Pradesh on August 24. On Tuesday, few coastal areas recorded less than 25 mm of rain according to the Directorate of Economics and Statistics (DES).
TMC Meghalaya Chief Asserts Party Remains Intact, Considers Backing Congress or Ruling NPP
Charles Pyngrope, president of the Meghalaya unit of Trinamool Congress (TMC), asserted that his party remains "real" and intact despite organizational crises. The TMC has five MLAs in the state assembly but will not contest the upcoming Lok Sabha by-election due to a lack of a suitable candidate. Pyngrope indicated the party is considering support options for either the Congress or the ruling National People's Party (NPP) ahead of the 2028 Assembly elections.
IMA Issues Advisory on H1N1 Surge in India During Monsoon Period
On August 26, 2026, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) issued a public health advisory on the seasonal surge in Influenza A (H1N1) during India's monsoon period. Delhi recorded over 1,770 cases, with Maharashtra, Karnataka, and West Bengal also reporting instances. The IMA urged against self-medication with antibiotics or antivirals without medical supervision and advised immediate medical attention for severe symptoms. It stressed the importance of preventive measures like frequent handwashing and wearing masks in crowded spaces. The advisory emphasized annual influenza vaccination for high-risk groups to mitigate the spread.
Suvendu Adhikari, West Bengal's Chief Minister, suggested that former Chief Minister Mamata
On August 24, 2026, Suvendu Adhikari, West Bengal's Chief Minister, suggested that former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee remain active on social media and avoid public appearances. He made this statement at a press conference following criticism over handling of recent incidents in Baruipur and Halisahar. Ms. Banerjee called the remark a threat and appealed to constitutional authorities, as her party faces defections and an existential crisis post-election defeat.
Supreme Court Orders ECI to Detail 38 Lakh Electoral Roll Appeals
On August 25, 2026, the Supreme Court directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to file an affidavit detailing the number of appeals for inclusion and exclusion in West Bengal's electoral rolls. The court sought statistics on pending and decided appeals from 19 tribunals, noting that 38 lakh appeals were filed, with seven lakh by disenfranchised voters seeking reinclusion. Senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan argued these should be prioritized before municipal elections in December 2026. Chief Justice Surya Kant agreed the issue needed urgent resolution.
District collectors now sole judges of CAA applications in eight states, bypassing committees
The Centre has given district collectors the authority to decide and approve Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) applications in eight states and Union Territories, replacing committee-based scrutiny. This change, effective immediately following two August 19 notifications by the Ministry of Home Affairs, aims to simplify and speed up processing. Pending applications will be transferred directly to collectors, who now serve as final authorities for examining applications, verifying documents, conducting inquiries, administering oaths, and granting citizenship under Section 6B of the Citizenship Act.
Calcutta Court Grants Split Trinamool Factions Separate Permission to Celebrate, Caps Attendance at 1,500
On August 28, a single-judge Bench of the Calcutta High Court granted permission to both factions of the Trinamool Congress—led by Mamata Banerjee and her nephew Abhishek Banerjee at Cathedral Road, and led by expelled legislator Ritabrata Banerjee at Rani Rashmoni Road—to separately celebrate TMCP's foundation day. Neither faction could use Mayo Road as requested due to the split in the party following their oust from power in 2026 elections. The court imposed conditions including a cap of 1,500 participants and restricted timings between noon and 3 p.m., with security arrangements by the Kolkata Police.
BJP plans reshuffle: 12 minister swaps to boost youth, women before 2029 polls
NDTV reported on Tuesday that the BJP plans to reshuffle India's Union Council of Ministers, aiming for younger faces and new allies before the 2029 polls. With 12 vacancies out of a possible 81 members, ministers with new party roles or ending Rajya Sabha terms may be replaced. The changes will also consider workload distribution and performance, potentially increasing the number of younger ministers and women. Inductions are eyed from states like Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Punjab, West Bengal, and potential new allies such as the DMK or NCP.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts heavy rainfall in East and Northern
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts heavy rainfall in East and Northern India, including Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Odisha, and parts of Madhya Pradesh, due to a low-pressure area over Jharkhand. Delhi experienced moderate rain on Tuesday following heavy rains that brought life to a standstill on Monday. Light to very light rain is expected in Delhi for the next three days. Subdued rainfall will continue in Peninsular India for one week.
Heavy Rain in Delhi Disrupts Traffic, Diverts 15 Flights
Heavy rain in Delhi on Monday caused waterlogged roads and disrupted traffic, with 15 flights diverted. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Tuesday, warning of heavy rainfall, lightning, thunderstorms, and winds up to 40 kmph affecting multiple districts. Dr Shashi Kant linked the rain to dry northerly and moisture-laden easterly winds interacting over Delhi. Neighboring Gurugram also faced severe waterlogging, prompting offices to allow work-from-home and schools to switch to online teaching. For now, flight operations at Delhi Airport remain normal.
CAA Applications: 23,000 Processed as 2.07 Lakh Await Approval
On August 24, 2026, Suvendu Adhikari, West Bengal Chief Minister, announced that 23,000 out of 2.30 lakh Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) applications have been processed, with about 2.07 lakh pending. He urged persecuted individuals to apply for CAA certificates and highlighted the Governor's approval for new laws enabling arrests for attacking police and damage compensation. Another bill allowing detention up to 12 months awaits presidential nod.
Mamata Banerjee Criticizes BJP Over Annapurna Scheme Women Benefits, August 24, 2026
On August 24, 2026, Mamata Banerjee, Trinamool Congress chairperson and former Chief Minister of West Bengal, criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party government for denying women benefits under the Annapurna scheme. She assured protesting women that she would support them and alleged BJP's denial of public meeting permissions. In response, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated 1.45 crore beneficiaries received funds, refuted discrimination claims, and opened a complaint portal. Published August 25, 2026.
Heavy rains in Gurugram divert 15 Delhi flights, cause severe traffic snarls
On August 24, 2026, heavy showers in north India triggered flight diversions and massive traffic disruption in the Delhi-NCR region, with Gurugram receiving 70 mm of rainfall by 1:30 p.m. Areas like Rajiv Chowk and IFFCO Chowk were severely affected, causing waterlogging and traffic snarls. At least 15 flights at Delhi airport were diverted to Jaipur, Chandigarh, and Lucknow due to bad weather. Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh also faced disruptions from heavy rains, with roads blocked and power transformers disrupted in some areas.
State-level handloom exhibition 'Hath Kargha Utsav' starts August 26
A State-level handloom exhibition-cum-sale, titled ‘Hath Kargha Utsav - My Handloom, My Pride,’ will be held at JSS Mysore Urban from August 26 to September 8. Organized by the Development Commissioner (Handlooms) and supported by various government bodies and cooperatives, it aims to provide marketing opportunities for handloom products and preserve traditional heritage. Over 60 weavers and artisans will showcase a wide range of items including Molakalmuru sarees, Kanjivarams, and Pashmina shawls from different states. The exhibition is free for visitors with parking available; it runs daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Manipur High Court hears plea to prioritize NRC over census amid protests
On August 24, 2026, the High Court of Manipur constituted a Special Division Bench to hear a PIL filed by the Kangleipak Students Association (KSA) regarding the Census exercise in limbo due to protests. The first phase is scheduled from September 1 to 30, but training has halted amid demands for a National Register of Citizens (NRC) first. A decision from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs is awaited.
Fishermen Reap 30-40 Tonnes of Hilsa, Backing INCOIS's HiFA Forecast System
On August 11, fishermen in Digha, West Bengal, landed an estimated 30-40 tonnes of Hilsa fish, validating INCOIS's HiFA forecasting system. Launched last year, HiFA uses machine learning to predict Hilsa availability based on environmental factors like sea surface temperature and salinity. Advisories issued August 9–11 identified high-potential fishing zones near Digha, helping fishermen target favorable areas efficiently.
Minister Agnimitra Paul Reprimands Homeless Woman for Heating Milk, Sparks Outrage
On August 22, 2026, Agnimitra Paul, Minister-in-Charge for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs in West Bengal, reprimanded a homeless woman heating milk for her child on Kolkata’s Park Street. This sparked outrage, with Mamata Banerjee offering to take responsibility for the family. Social media criticized Paul, who defended herself by highlighting footpath conditions affecting investment. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari supported Paul.
IMD Issues Red Alert as Delhi Soaks in 67 mm Rain, Traffic Gridlocks
Heavy rainfall hit Delhi-NCR on Monday, with Janakpuri recording 67 mm. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a three-hour Red Alert and an all-day Orange Alert for heavy rain, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, and winds up to 60 km/h in multiple districts. Normal life was disrupted due to waterlogging on roads, leading to slow-moving traffic. Dr Shashikant from the IMD attributed the intense rainfall to dry northerly winds interacting with moisture-laden easterly winds from West Bengal, causing high-intensity rain and thunderstorms.
MP Mahua Moitra Seeks Urgent Court Hearing After Eviction by Local Officials
On August 24, 2026, Mahua Moitra, a Trinamool Congress MP from Krishnanagar in Nadia district, West Bengal, made an urgent oral mention before the Chief Justice of India’s Bench alleging her eviction by local officials on August 14. Ms. Moitra claimed she was entitled to stay at the Circuit House and that chanting crowds were involved. Her counsel argued this violated federalism and court orders, seeking an urgent hearing under Article 32 of the Constitution. The Court agreed to consider her plea for early listing.
Fascinate Textiles IPO Subscribed 1.48 Times, Debut Weak Below Rs 151
The Fascinate Textiles IPO, open from August 11 to August 19, 2026, was subscribed 1.48 times overall, with QIBs subscribing 22.74 times but retail and NII portions lower at 1.37 and 1.06 times respectively. Despite strong subscription interest, the stock debuted weakly, opening below its issue price of Rs 151. The IPO aimed to raise Rs 64.83 crore for capacity expansion and debt reduction. Fascinate Textiles reported a 94% surge in total income and a 159% jump in PAT during FY26.
Emerging-market carry trades win big, returning 22% since late 2024
Hepworth of PGIM notes that carry trades, involving borrowing in low-interest currencies like the US dollar and investing in higher-yielding ones such as the Turkish lira or Colombian peso, are experiencing their longest winning streak since 2008. Since late 2024, emerging-market carry trades have returned about 22%, outperforming other global bond classes; US Treasuries yielded only 5.9% over the same period. This strategy benefits from a weakening dollar and high interest rates in countries like Colombia and Turkey, where returns are bolstered by significant currency appreciation despite volatility.
Ex-Ambassador Navdeep Suri Questions Election Commission Over Citizenship Proof
Former ambassador Navdeep Suri, who served in the UAE, Egypt, and Australia, questioned the Election Commission over difficulties proving his citizenship during the special intensive revision (SIR) voter roll exercise. Despite holding Indian diplomatic posts abroad, he was asked for unspecified documents beyond voter ID and Aadhaar to verify his status. This raised concerns about the ease of verification for common citizens. The SIR process, introduced in June 2025, led to over 60 lakh voters being removed from Bihar's list and 90 lakh from West Bengal's before assembly elections.
BJP clash over feast leaves worker with head injury at Anandapur playground
On August 23, 2026, a BJP worker was injured in a clash between two rival BJP groups over hosting a feast at Anandapur playground. The injured worker suffered a head injury and both groups later demonstrated outside the Anandapur police station. Local leader Arun Biswal alleged unauthorized permission for the feast and extortion by new party members who joined after May 4.
Doctors from Narayana Health in West Bengal successfully treated a seven-year-old boy
Doctors from Narayana Health in West Bengal successfully treated a seven-year-old boy with thalassaemia using an advanced Haplo Cord transplant, combining his sibling’s cord blood and father's stem cells. They also used CAR T-cell therapy to treat a 62-year-old man from Myanmar with brain cancer after conventional treatments failed. Both patients recovered well; the child is now transfusion-free. Joydeep Chakrabartty, Senior Consultant at Narayana Health, highlighted these recoveries as landmark achievements in medical science.
Rajnath Singh Virtually Lays Foundation for Five Ship Projects Worth ₹3,500 Crore
On August 23, 2026, Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister, virtually laid the foundation stone for five brownfield expansion projects of Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) and Yantra India Ltd. in Kolkata. The projects, worth nearly ₹3,500 crore, include three GRSE facilities and two from Yantra India, aimed at enhancing warship construction capabilities and supporting West Bengal’s industrial ecosystem. Accompanied by Suvendu Adhikari, Chief Minister of West Bengal, Singh highlighted the state's development push.
BJP MLAs take charge of 247 college presidencies in West Bengal education overhaul
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in West Bengal, led by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, appointed BJP MLAs and MPs as presidents of governing bodies in over 247 state-run colleges after dissolving previous Trinamool Congress-led bodies. Appointees include Health Minister Sharadwat Mukherjee at East Kolkata Girls College and Speaker Rathindra Bose at Coochbehar College. State Higher Education Minister Jagannath Chattopadhyay defended the appointments, stating that they align with the government’s goal of removing political influence from education institutions. Published August 23, 2026.
Around 6 am today, Jahangir Alam stabbed his wife, Ruksana Begum
Around 6 am today, Jahangir Alam stabbed his wife, Ruksana Begum, with a sharp weapon during an argument over a personal issue at their home in West Bengal's Jalpaiguri. When Jahangir’s mother intervened, he attacked her too; she escaped with injuries. Ruksana died from multiple stab wounds. Jahangir then consumed pesticide and surrendered to the Dhupguri police station. Family members said fights between them had become frequent recently due to Jahangir's substance abuse issues. He was arrested, and a post-mortem is being conducted on Ruksana’s body while officials investigate the motive behind the crime.
Fishermen Warned: High-Risk Conditions Forecast, Avoid Seas Until August 24
A low-pressure area formed over the Northwest Bay of Bengal at 5.30 a.m. on Sunday, August 23, 2026, under India Meteorological Department influence. Expected to intensify, it prompted warnings for squally weather with wind speeds up to 60 kmph and rough seas along West Bengal, Odisha, and North Andhra Pradesh coasts through August 24. Fishermen were advised not to venture out until then due to high-risk conditions.
On Saturday morning, Delhi experienced light rain and mist in several areas
On Saturday morning, Delhi experienced light rain and mist in several areas, including Kartavya Path and the Ridge. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported temperatures of 26-27°C with isolated heavy rainfall at Pusa recording 16.5 mm. Across India, very heavy rainfall was recorded over multiple states, with forecasts predicting more rain for Uttarakhand, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Odisha, and Bihar from August 22 to 28.
On the night of August 18–19, a fire at Hotel Shikha Inn
On the night of August 18–19, a fire at Hotel Shikha Inn owned by Bireswar Mitra, who had leased it to Abu Zafar, killed nine people. After evading arrest for days, Mitra was captured in Kolkata on Saturday following an informant tip. Police suspect he returned with a motive and are interrogating him. Seven victims were Bangladeshi residents; one each from Giridih and Siliguri.
Protesters Block Tracks, Demand Annapurna Bhandar Benefits Denied by BJP
On August 21, 2026, protests erupted in West Bengal over the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government's denial of Annapurna Bhandar scheme benefits to women. Protesters blocked railway tracks and highways, demanding immediate payments promised during elections but now restricted by conditions set by the BJP. State Minister Agnimitra Paul and Women and Child Development Minister Malati Rava Roy faced angry crowds. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari dismissed protests as politically orchestrated by the Opposition.
Elon Musk's Starlink Aims to Bridge India’s Rural Internet Gap, 126.8 vs 48.3 Subscribers
Elon Musk pitched Starlink to address India's rural connectivity gaps, noting over 1.09 billion internet subscribers as of March 2026, with urban areas having 126.8 subscribers per 100 people compared to rural areas' 48.3. Despite near-universal mobile coverage in many states, rural internet adoption remains low due to factors like affordability and digital literacy.
Shah Promises Political Solution for Darjeeling, Forms Special Committee
Amit Shah, Union Home Minister, promised a permanent political solution for Darjeeling hills issues during a high-level interaction with representatives from the region. A special committee led by Pankaj Kumar Singh will develop modalities and a roadmap for this settlement. The meeting, attended by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and prominent hill leaders, discussed demands for distinct identity and constitutional status. Shah assured sympathetic consideration of other demands and financial assistance from the Centre.
Amit Shah meets officials to strengthen Siliguri Corridor security, establish 'Triangular Security Grid'
On August 22, 2026, Amit Shah, Union Home Minister, met with senior officials of West Bengal and central forces to review security along the eastern borders, focusing on strengthening arrangements at Siliguri Corridor. The meeting aimed to enhance border surveillance, improve coordination between various agencies, and establish a 'Triangular Security Grid'.
