Latest Published Articles

আন্তর্জাতিক Aug 27, 2026

Raging waters are approaching, workers running for their lives! Another terrifying video from Nepal goes viral

**Nepal:** A sudden torrent of water is rushing down the mountains. Along with it comes mud, silt, and debris. A terrifying flash flood is approaching right before our eyes. And workers are running for their lives to escape the oncoming flow. Such a video of a devastating natural disaster in Nepal has gone viral on social media.The situation has become dire due to sudden floods and landslides in the Himalayan region near the Nepal-Tibet border. Water mixed with mud and debris is rushing down the slopes of the mountains into the valleys at a rapid pace. Reports suggest that multiple villages have been virtually wiped out.The viral video shows several workers at a construction site. Suddenly, they see a massive torrent approaching with a loud roar. Panic spreads through the area in an instant. The workers start running to save their lives. A few seconds of delay could have meant being swept away by the powerful current.The video was captured by a worker's camera. Later, according to media reports, they were rescued with the help of a helicopter after the disaster.https://twitter.com/i/status/2092694135945978318Not only is this scene of workers trying to save their lives going viral, but several other videos of Nepal's catastrophic disaster have also spread on social media. In one video, an iron bridge is seen being swept away in the blink of an eye by the force of the rushing water. In another scene, water mixed with mud is seen flowing through populated areas. Homes and other infrastructure have been damaged by the water's force.According to initial reports, the areas of Timure and Sabrubesi near the Nepal-Tibet border have been the most affected. Rescuers in the Rasuwa and Nuwakot areas are searching for the missing by clearing piles of mud and silt. Many people are reported missing due to the disaster. It is unclear how many are still trapped under the rubble.Residents of risky riverside areas have been instructed to move to safer places. Rescuers are also facing difficulties while conducting rescue operations in the affected areas. Due to the flooding, multi-story buildings and homes have been damaged, and efforts are ongoing to find survivors by clearing the layers of mud and silt.Meanwhile, several areas of Nepal have virtually turned into rubble due to the severity of the flash floods and landslides. The gravity of the situation is becoming clearer with each new video spreading on social media. However, it is advised to view all viral videos with caution until the information and casualty figures are officially confirmed.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 6 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 27, 2026

Skull of a Human Found at Trinamool Leader's Meat Shop! Panic in Gangasagar

**Gangasagar:** In the early morning, the discovery of a human skull at a meat shop has caused a stir in the Krishnanagar market area of Gangasagar in South 24 Parganas. The incident has sparked panic among local residents, along with a growing sense of mystery. The shopkeeper has already been detained and police have begun questioning him.According to local sources, Shatrughan Das, a resident of Krishnanagar market, was passing by the meat shop of Ayub Ali Sheikh in the area. Allegedly, at that time, the shopkeeper handed him a bag. Initially, he thought it might contain meat for a nearby house.However, upon opening the bag, he was shocked! Instead of meat, he found a human skull inside the bag. As news of the incident spread, local residents quickly began to gather at the scene.During questioning, shopkeeper Ayub Ali claimed that his minor son found the skull while fishing by the canal. This has raised multiple questions about how it ended up in the shop and why it was placed in the bag.Upon receiving the news, police from Sagar police station arrived at the scene. The skull has been recovered and sent to Kakdwip morgue for autopsy. The police are investigating where the skull came from, how old it is, and whether it is connected to any crime.Additionally, local sources have reported that the shopkeeper is being questioned after being detained.Meanwhile, some local residents claim that Ayub Ali Sheikh is known as a Trinamool leader in the area. As a result, there has been considerable political discussion surrounding the incident of the skull's discovery. However, it is still unclear whether there is any political connection to this incident.It is believed that the true mystery of the skull's recovery may be uncovered once the police investigation and autopsy report are available.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 2 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 27, 2026

Tourist Stranded in Turbulent Sea Rescued in Bakkhali After 20 Minutes

**Bakkhali, August 27:** A tourist found himself in trouble after ignoring the administration's warning and entering the turbulent sea for a swim early in the morning. He began to drown after being swept far from the shore by the strong ebb tide. Civil defense personnel rescued him after a breathless 20-minute effort. The incident caused a stir in Bakkhali, South 24 Parganas.According to administration sources, a group of eight tourists from North 24 Parganas had come to Bakkhali for a visit. Due to the rough sea, civil defense had been warning tourists not to venture into deep water since morning. It was alleged that despite the warning, a member of the group, Uday Bairagya (53), went into deep water.At that time, the sea was experiencing low tide. Suddenly, he was swept far from the shore by the strong current and began to drown. Realizing the danger, Uday waved his hands in fear and started shouting for help. As soon as the situation was noticed, civil defense personnel quickly jumped into the sea.Due to the rough sea, the rescue operation faced significant challenges. After nearly 20 minutes of effort, he was finally rescued from the water. After the rescue, he was given first aid on the beach.Upon receiving the news, the police from the Fraserganj Coastal Police Station arrived at the scene. The ailing tourist was rescued and taken to the local health center. He is currently receiving treatment there.The administration has once again warned tourists about the sea conditions. They have specifically requested that no one should enter deep water during low tide and rough sea conditions.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 3 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 26, 2026

10 Newborns Die in a Single Day at Malda Medical College, Health Department Demands Complete Report

**Malda, August 26:** The death of 10 newborns in a single day at Malda Medical College and Hospital has caused a stir. As soon as the matter came to light, the health department demanded a complete report from the authorities of Malda Medical. The hospital authorities have also confirmed the death of 10 newborns in one day.According to medical sources, this incident occurred in the second week of August. Among the 10 newborns who died on that day, only two were born at Malda Medical College and Hospital. The other eight were referred to Malda Medical in critical condition from various hospitals and nursing homes.The hospital sources claim that several of the deceased newborns had serious health issues such as respiratory distress, jaundice, and heart problems. Most of the babies brought in from outside were admitted to Malda Medical in extremely critical condition, according to the authorities.Regarding the incident, the superintendent of Malda Medical College, Prosenjit Bar, stated that 10 newborns have died in one day. However, only two of them were born at Malda Medical College. The other eight were referred from outside in serious condition.In light of the deaths of so many newborns in one day, the health department has already requested a report. The hospital authorities have stated that a preliminary report has been sent to the health department. A complete report mentioning the cause of the incident and all related information will be sent soon.The hospital authorities' statements regarding the deaths of so many newborns in one day are under scrutiny, along with the health department's report.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 11 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 26, 2026

Rescue of a Softshell Turtle from the Baganan Fish Market, Released into the River by Local Youth

**Baganan:** A softshell turtle was rescued from the Harop fish market area of Baganan in Howrah. On Tuesday evening, a few local youths rescued the turtle from the bushes by the roadside. After trying to contact an environmental organization without success, they decided to release the turtle into the river themselves. The incident created a stir in the area.According to local sources, on Tuesday evening, a few youths noticed something moving in the bushes by the roadside while passing through the Harop fish market road. Suspecting something was amiss, they turned on their mobile flashlight and approached. There, they found a turtle lying on the ground and rescued it.After that, the turtle was safely placed in a large container. To ensure it was properly cared for, the local youths tried to contact an environmental organization. However, due to some reason, they could not reach out, and ultimately decided to return the turtle to its natural habitat.Later, the local youths released the turtle into the river. Residents of the area welcomed their initiative. Some locals claim that awareness among the general public regarding wildlife and environmental protection is gradually increasing. The incident of safely returning the rescued turtle to the river is a testament to that.According to local residents, such awareness is important in returning wildlife safely to its natural environment without capturing it. They praised the youths for their humanitarian and environmentally friendly initiative.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 9 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 26, 2026

11 Fresh Bombs Disarmed in Patashpur, Area Shaken by Explosion Sounds

**Patashpur:** The bomb disposal squad has finally disarmed 11 fresh bombs recovered from the Shankargearia village in East Medinipur. On Wednesday, the bombs were disarmed with extreme caution in the presence of police at an empty playground in the village. As each bomb was disarmed, the entire area shook with a deafening sound.According to police sources, 11 fresh bombs were recovered from Shankargearia village some days ago. After the recovery, the police began necessary preparations to safely disarm them. Finally, on this day, experts from the bomb disposal squad were brought to the scene.Keeping safety in mind, an empty playground in the village was chosen for the bomb disarming. Police and bomb squad representatives arrived there and cordoned off the area. Then, for nearly an hour, the disarming work was carried out with extreme caution.With each bomb being disarmed, a loud explosion was heard. The sound spread panic in the surrounding areas. However, it has been reported that all bombs were successfully disarmed safely due to the police's prompt action.After the incident, security in the area has been further tightened. The police are investigating where these bombs came from and what purpose they were stored for.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 7 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 25, 2026

Inhumane Scene at Malda Medical! Young Man Tied with Chains Dragged Away by Relatives, Allegations of Beating with Shoes

**Malda:** Shocking and inhumane scenes have emerged in front of Malda Medical College and Hospital. Allegations have been made against family members for dragging a 26-year-old young man tied with chains. It is also alleged that when the young man tried to resist, he was beaten with shoes. Although his sister was present, she reportedly did not intervene at all during the incident.It is known that Sarikul Islam (26), the younger son of Nurul Haque, a resident of the Mahishbathani area of Old Malda, has been suffering from mental issues since birth, according to the family. Family members noticed abnormal behavior in him from the age of just seven months. Later, he was taken to Ranchi for treatment. However, the family claims that there has been no significant improvement in his condition despite prolonged treatment.Family sources further revealed that Sarikul had gone missing for about ten days nearly seven years ago. Since that incident, family members have kept a close watch on him. Their concern increased as they wanted to ensure he wouldn't get lost when going outside.On the day in question, family members brought Sarikul to Malda Medical College Hospital. It is reported that he was brought to the hospital to complete necessary work for a disability certificate. However, the family claims that he could not be controlled in any way after arriving at the hospital.Subsequently, family members tied him with chains. Allegations have arisen that he was dragged through the hospital premises in that condition. It is also alleged that when the young man tried to resist, he was beaten with shoes. Many present at the scene expressed their anger upon witnessing the incident.However, Sarikul's family stated that they were compelled to use chains not with the intention of torturing him, but to keep him under control. They claim that due to his long-standing mental issues, family members have become practically helpless.The video or scenes of this incident that have come to light at Malda Medical College have already raised questions—Is tying a young man suffering from mental issues with chains and beating him really a solution? No statement has been received from the hospital authorities or the administration regarding the incident. Locals believe that a thorough investigation into the complete details of the incident and the family's situation is necessary.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 13 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 24, 2026

Release of Rasik Chandra at 105, End of a 40-Year Prison Sentence

**Malda:** The end of a long imprisonment. At the age of 105, Rasik Chandra Mondal, a resident of Manikchak in Malda, has been fully released. Considering his age and physical illness, the Supreme Court has ordered the waiver of the remaining term of his life sentence. This decision from the apex court has brought joy to Rasik Chandra's family.Rasik Chandra Mondal is a resident of West Narayanpur village in Manikchak, Malda. In 1988, he was accused of murdering his brother Suresh Mondal over a property dispute. In that case, he was convicted in 1994 and sentenced to life imprisonment. At that time, he was 74 years old.After spending a long time in jail, Rasik Chandra approached the Kolkata High Court for release in 2018. However, his application was unsuccessful there. He then approached the Supreme Court. The apex court did not cancel his sentence either. However, with age, his physical condition continued to deteriorate.In 2020, at the age of 99, Rasik Chandra applied for early release. His application mentioned various physical problems related to his old age and aging. In May 2021, based on that application, the Supreme Court sought information from the West Bengal government.After that, the case continued for a long time. Finally, in November 2024, the apex court ordered his interim bail or parole release. He had been outside the jail since then.Last Friday, a bench of three judges finalized the case. Considering Rasik Chandra's current age and physical condition, the court stated that he would no longer have to spend the remaining time of his life sentence in prison. In other words, he has effectively been fully released.After nearly four decades of this case, the centenarian Rasik Chandra has returned to his family. Currently, his memory is quite weak. He cannot speak properly. This 105-year-old man now has the opportunity to spend his last days in his own way with his family.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 18 reads

কলকাতা Aug 24, 2026

Severe Fire Breaks Out Again in Kolkata, Nearly 30 Cars Burnt to Ashes at Showroom on Jessore Road

**Kolkata:** A severe fire incident occurred again in Kolkata early Monday morning. A car showroom in the Bankra area adjacent to Jessore Road near Kolkata Airport suddenly caught fire. The flames quickly escalated to a terrifying size, engulfing the entire area in black smoke.Upon receiving the news, the fire department arrived at the scene. Initially, five engines were deployed to extinguish the fire. Seeing the severity of the situation, three more engines were later sent to the site. After prolonged efforts from a total of eight fire engines, the fire was finally brought under control.However, by that time, significant damage had already occurred. It has been reported that nearly **30 cars in the showroom were burnt to ashes**. The fire incident caused widespread panic in the area.According to fire department sources, it is initially estimated that **the fire may have originated from a short circuit**. However, an investigation has been initiated to determine the exact cause of the fire. It is also being examined how the fire spread so quickly and whether there were any shortcomings in the firefighting measures.As of now, there have been no reports of casualties from this fire incident early Monday morning. After the fire is completely brought under control, an inspection of the site will be conducted to assess the extent of the damage.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 18 reads

বিনোদন Aug 23, 2026

Promita with her newborn in arms, first glimpse of Anupam-Promita's son revealed

**Kolkata:** Singer Anupam Roy and singer Promita Pal have recently become parents. Their son was born on August 17 of this month. Until now, the star couple had kept the happy news private. Now, just five days after the birth, Promita has shared the first picture of her son in her arms. She has also shared a photo from her pregnancy period.On Saturday, Promita posted two pictures on social media. In the first picture, she is seen in a long dress with a gray striped design. The clear baby bump and her smiling face capture the joyful moments of motherhood.The other picture captures the moment of returning home from the hospital with the newborn. The singer is seen in front of the camera holding her son. Along with the picture, Promita wrote, **“Before and after, though the chapters are different, the joy remains the same. I am grateful for every moment.”**However, Anupam and Promita have not yet revealed their son's name. They also did not disclose Promita's pregnancy news until after the birth. It was only after sharing the happy news on social media on August 17 that fans learned about the new member of their family.The entire family is now celebrating the joy of the newborn. Both Anupam and Promita are well-known faces in the music world. Therefore, it is said that the touch of their songs has already reached their little one's life.Now, everyone is just waiting for the announcement of the son's name. It is said that as soon as the name is finalized, it will be shared with the fans.Anupam Roy and Promita Pal got married in a private ceremony in March 2024. Now, a new chapter has begun in their married life. The star couple is overwhelmed with congratulations on the arrival of their son.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 17 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 23, 2026

24 Families 'Subjugated' Across the Barbed Wire for 21 Years, Appeal to Government for Rehabilitation

**Maldah:** Despite the completion of 80 years of independence, 24 families from the border village of Talatala in the Chandpur Gram Panchayat of Babungola block in Maldah have raised allegations of living a practically 'subjugated' life despite being Indian citizens. These families were left on the other side of the barbed wire when it was constructed along the India-Bangladesh border in 2005. Nearly 21 years have passed since then, and they still have to live across the barbed wire.Villagers allege that despite having Indian identity cards, their daily lives are heavily controlled. They have to show their identity cards to the BSF at specific times for commuting. Even though they need to travel multiple times during the day, they face problems when they need urgent medical care or if someone falls ill at night.The geographical location of Talatala village is quite complex. On one side is India, and on the other is Bangladesh. The river Bhaba serves as one of the markers of the border between the two countries. On the other side of the river is the village of Adatala in the Sapahar police station of Naogaon district, Bangladesh. And on this side is Talatala in Babungola police station, Maldah.Local residents further allege that there is always a sense of fear regarding security in the border area. They claim that sometimes miscreants cross the river and steal livestock from their side. As a result, families face difficulties not only due to insecurity but also in terms of their children's education, medical care, and urgent travel needs.In this situation, 24 families have appealed to the government for their rehabilitation across the barbed wire. They argue that if they cannot live normally on the mainland of their own country as Indian citizens, how will they reap the full benefits of independence?Meanwhile, Jewel Murmu, the state's Minister of Water Resources and Tribal Development and the local MLA, visited Talatala village and spoke with the local residents. He listened to their problems while talking to them. He was accompanied by representatives of the village panchayat and BSF officials from the 88th Talatala BOP.In front of the minister, the villagers folded their hands and demanded their rehabilitation. They appealed to the government to arrange for their residence across the barbed wire.Jewel Murmu stated that he personally visited the area, spoke with the residents, and listened to their problems. He assured that he would raise the issue with the state government and discuss it with the district administration. He also mentioned that he would discuss with the administration whether it is possible to rehabilitate the 24 families across the barbed wire.Now, those 24 families from Talatala are looking towards the government's decision. Their only demand is to be given the opportunity to live a normal life across the barbed wire as Indian citizens.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 15 reads

কলকাতা Aug 23, 2026

High Court Stay on Demolition of Illegal Construction in Rasbihari, Local Residents Relieved

**Kolkata:** A sense of relief has emerged in the ongoing controversy surrounding the demolition of a construction on Satish Mukherjee Road in the Rasbihari assembly constituency. As news of the Kolkata High Court's stay on the demolition process surfaced, a joyful atmosphere has developed in the area. Some local residents have expressed relief at this court order.According to local sources, there has been discussion and concern in the area regarding the construction on Satish Mukherjee Road for a long time. With the demolition process beginning, some residents had become worried about their future. In this situation, the news of the Kolkata High Court's stay has brought temporary relief among them.Local residents stated that they feel somewhat reassured due to the court's order to temporarily halt the demolition process. However, uncertainty remains until the final resolution of the case.The court has already emphasized the importance of following legal procedures in multiple cases related to illegal construction in Kolkata. In this context, the next directives from the court regarding this incident in Rasbihari are considered very significant.Now, local residents are keeping an eye on the next hearing of the Kolkata High Court and the subsequent actions of the relevant municipal authorities. The next steps regarding the construction will become clear only after the court's final decision.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 14 reads

জাতীয় Aug 22, 2026

18-Year-Old Youth Jumps from Mountain Edge Over iPhone Demand, Parents Also Jump to Save Him! Tragic Death of Parents, Viral Video

**Maharashtra:** An 18-year-old youth took a drastic decision after arguing with his parents over buying an iPhone. In an attempt to save him, his parents jumped off the mountain as well. The tragic incident resulted in the death of three family members. This incident in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district of Maharashtra has created a stir. A video of the incident has already gone viral on social media.According to police sources, the deceased youth's name is Kunal Chandgude. Around 10 AM on Friday, he had an argument with his parents over the demand for a mobile phone. After that, he went to a mountain in the Waluj MIDC area. Upon learning of this, his parents also reached there.The police and fire brigade were informed at the scene. Local residents also tried to convince Kunal. A rescue team attempted to set up safety nets below the mountain to bring him down safely. However, the youth kept changing his position repeatedly.### ‘Take the iPhone 15 Pro’, yet he did not change his decisionIn the viral video, Kunal is seen standing at the very edge of the mountain. Several people present are desperately trying to calm him down and persuade him to step back. In the video, one person is heard offering him an iPhone.One person trying to convince the youth says that if he needs an iPhone, he will give it to him. Another person also mentions giving him an iPhone 15 Pro. But Kunal did not budge from his decision.https://twitter.com/i/status/2090787621144514958In the video, he is heard saying, **“Suicide is the only solution.”** A woman present, believed to be Kunal's mother, tries to convince him that ending life is not a solution to any problem. Others also request him to reconsider his decision.### Parents Jumped to Save Their SonAfter all attempts to manage the situation failed, Kunal jumped from the edge of the mountain. It is reported that without thinking about anything, his parents also jumped to save him. All three died after falling from the mountain.The police recovered the bodies from the scene and sent them for further legal proceedings. The police are investigating the circumstances under which this tragic incident occurred.The video of the incident has been posted from an X handle named ‘Sahil Patel’. After the video spread on social media, it has generated intense reactions among netizens. Many have expressed concern over the severity of the incident.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 24 reads

বিনোদন Aug 22, 2026

What did Sohini eat during her baby shower? She got scolded for saying 'the greens are good'

**Kolkata:** Shovon Gangopadhyay and Sohini Sarkar are waiting for their transition from 2 to 3. The star couple is counting down the days until the arrival of their new guest. In the meantime, a grand baby shower was organized at Sohini's in-laws' house. The actress was beautifully adorned by her mother-in-law, who also served her favorite dishes. Shovon's mother and aunt were present at the event, along with Sohini's mother.At the baby shower, Sohini's plate was filled with her favorite dishes. The menu included her most favorite **Hilsa fish**. There was fried Hilsa, Hilsa head with puishak dal, rice, red spinach fry, five types of fried items, moong dal, shukto, fried katla fish, fish head, tophse fry, mango chutney, payesh, yogurt, and sweets. In other words, the menu was a celebration of Bengali traditional cuisine for the expectant mother.During the event, Shovon Gangopadhyay personally fed his wife payesh. He has mentioned that he is taking care of his wife during this special time while also considering her likes and dislikes. According to Sohini, even during shooting, Shovon would prepare her favorite breakfast and pack her tiffin.However, a funny incident occurred during the baby shower while eating. While eating rice with red spinach, Sohini exclaimed, **‘The greens are really good.’** And for that, she got scolded by the elders of the house. According to family tradition, one should not say that any food is good during the baby shower. Thus, her mother and aunts scolded her. Immediately, the expectant mother Sohini realized her mistake and bit her tongue.Currently, the actress is enjoying her motherhood and is taking some rest. However, she will soon be seen working. The films **‘Bahurupi’** and **‘The Golden Daku’** are set to release during the Puja. It has been reported that Sohini shot for ‘Bahurupi’ while being four months pregnant. At the same time, she also shot for the ‘Ajeya’ series.On July 15, 2024, Shovon and Sohini legally married at a farmhouse in Kolkata. The wedding ceremony was held in a small way in the presence of close family members. Now, a new chapter is about to begin in their lives.CPIM leader Dipshita Dhar was also present at Sohini's baby shower. She is Shovon's cousin sister. That is how she joined this joyful family event with her parents.On their second wedding anniversary, Shovon and Sohini publicly announced the happy news of their transition from ‘2 to 3’. Now, the star couple is counting down the days to welcome the new guest.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 24 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 22, 2026

7-foot python enters house in Alinagar, panic among family

**Kankasa:** A massive python entered a house early in the morning! Family members were filled with panic upon seeing the approximately 6 to 7-foot-long python inside the house. The incident caused a stir in the Alinagar area of Kankasa in West Burdwan.According to local sources, on Friday morning, family members suddenly spotted the huge python inside their home. Seeing such a large snake inside the house, they became terrified in an instant. Residents from the surrounding area also gathered at the scene along with the family members. Many stepped outside their homes for safety.Quickly, the forest department was notified. Upon receiving the news, forest workers from the Malandighi beat of the Durgapur range arrived at the scene. After a long effort, they carefully rescued the python.Thanks to the prompt action of the forest workers, relief returned to the family and local residents as the python was safely rescued. According to forest department sources, the rescued python is approximately 6 to 7 feet long. Arrangements were later made to release the snake in a safe location.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 14 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 22, 2026

Headmaster and Clerk Arrested in Malda Tablet Scam, 5 Days CID Custody

**Malda:** A significant step by the CID in the tablet scam case. The headmaster Dulal Mandal and the clerk Rajesh Choudhury of Kendpukur High School in Habibpur police station area of Malda have been arrested by the CID. When the two arrested were presented in the Malda district court, the judge ordered five days of CID custody.It is alleged that in November 2024, the money sent by the state government for students to purchase tablets was diverted to other accounts instead of the designated accounts of the students in multiple instances. This incident has caused a stir across the state. Allegations of misappropriation of tablet funds have also emerged against various schools in Malda district. Subsequently, the entire incident was handed over to the CID for investigation.Earlier, the CID had arrested several individuals from Itahar in North Dinajpur, including Malda. Now, with renewed momentum in the investigation, the headmaster and clerk of Kendpukur High School in Habibpur have been arrested.According to CID sources, **the tablet funds of 91 students from that school had been transferred to other accounts**. The revelation of this incident has caused widespread concern. The then district school inspector Banibrata Saha had filed a complaint against the headmaster at the police station. Subsequently, the headmaster also filed a complaint against the clerk.Devjyoti Pal, the government lawyer of Malda district court, stated that the tablet funds were transferred to other accounts using the school's Wi-Fi. He claimed that an OTP was sent to the headmaster's phone during the transfer of funds. The CID has taken the two accused into custody to investigate to whom he gave that OTP and whether anyone else is involved in this incident.On the other hand, Nilanjan Das, the general secretary of the BJP in South Malda district, alleged that corruption and looting have taken place during the tenure of the then government. He demanded a neutral investigation into how the tablet funds went to other accounts and who is behind it. He also called for exemplary punishment for the actual culprits.Now, the CID is waiting for the investigation to reveal how the tablet funds of 91 students reached other accounts, who used the OTP, and whether anyone else is involved in this incident.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 14 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 20, 2026

Allegations of Not Receiving Benefits from Annapurna Scheme, Women Block Road in Durgapur in Front of SDIO Office

**Durgapur:** A group of women protested by blocking the road in front of the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) office in Durgapur, alleging that they have been deprived of the benefits of the Annapurna scheme. This incident caused a stir in the area on Thursday.The protesting women claimed that during the previous government, they received benefits from the Lakshmi Bhandar scheme. However, under the current government, they are being deprived of the benefits of the Annapurna scheme. They expressed their anger over why they are not receiving the benefits of government schemes despite being eligible.In protest against the allegations, the women blocked the road in front of the SDO office for nearly 30 minutes on Thursday. As a result, traffic in the area was disrupted, causing inconvenience to the general public and daily commuters.Upon receiving the news, the police from New Township reached the scene. Police officials spoke with the protesters and tried to convince them to lift the blockade. Ultimately, with police intervention, the women lifted the blockade, and traffic gradually returned to normal.The protesters claimed that if they are deprived of the benefits of the Annapurna scheme, they will inform the administration again. They also stated that they will approach the administration in the future to demand the benefits of the scheme.Their question is, why are they not receiving benefits despite being eligible for government schemes? They want a clear explanation from the administration.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 23 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 20, 2026

British-era Vashapole's platform washed away in Ghatala, disrupting communication

**Ghatala:** Due to continuous rain from a low-pressure system, the water level of the river rose, causing trouble at the historic Vashapole in Ghatala. On Thursday morning, a part of the platform of this Vashapole, built during the British era, was washed away by the water's current. As a result, communication in the area has been disrupted.According to local sources, the water levels of the Shilabati and Jhumi rivers in Ghatala have been steadily rising due to the rain. Meanwhile, a bamboo bridge in the Nimtala area collapsed under the force of the water. A part of the collapsed bridge floated with the river water and collided with the Vashapole. It was this collision that caused a section of the Vashapole's platform to break away and be swept away.As the Vashapole is one of the important means of transportation for local people, many have faced difficulties due to the incident. Upon receiving the news, maintenance workers quickly arrived at the scene and began rescue operations. A part of the washed-away platform was found several kilometers away. Efforts are underway to recover it and restore normalcy.Attention is being paid to the river's water level and current conditions. Initiatives have been taken to quickly repair the damaged part of the Vashapole and restore communication.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 20 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 18, 2026

Part of Old House Collapses in Jorabagan, 1 Dead; Disaster Management Team at the Scene

**Kolkata:** A part of an old house collapsed in the Jorabagan area of Kolkata due to continuous rain. The incident occurred early Tuesday morning. According to police sources, one person has died after being trapped under the debris of the house.Local sources reported that around 5 a.m., a portion of the old house suddenly collapsed, causing panic throughout the area with a loud noise. Police and disaster management teams quickly arrived at the scene. The search and rescue operation began to clear the debris.Police sources confirmed that one person has died in the incident. However, the identity of the deceased has not yet been disclosed. Authorities are assessing how dangerous the remaining part of the house is.Due to continuous rain, concerns about old and dilapidated houses in various areas of Kolkata are already rising. This incident in Jorabagan has once again raised questions about the safety of dangerous houses during the monsoon. Police and administration are investigating the cause of the accident.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 27 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 17, 2026

Seven Dead, Multiple Injured in Morning Fire at Tarapith—Area in Shock

**Tarapith:** A devastating fire broke out in a private hotel in Tarapith early Monday morning. So far, seven people have died in the incident. Several individuals have sustained serious injuries and have been admitted to Rampurhat Government Medical College and Hospital. Some of the injured are reported to be in critical condition, raising fears that the death toll may rise further.According to local sources, around 4:30 AM, a sudden fire erupted on the ground floor of a private hotel named 'Bidishini', located near Tarapith police station by the pond. The fire spread rapidly, causing panic among the hotel residents.Multiple fire engines arrived at the scene upon receiving the news. Along with extinguishing the fire, efforts began to rescue the residents trapped inside the hotel. After prolonged efforts, firefighters managed to bring the fire under control.Subsequently, searches were conducted in various parts of the hotel, and the charred bodies of seven individuals were recovered. The bodies have been sent to Rampurhat Government Medical College and Hospital for autopsy.It has been reported that several of the deceased and injured are residents of Alipurduar and Dinhata in North Bengal. As news of the incident spread, family members began to head towards Tarapith and Rampurhat. Upon reaching the hospital, many started searching for their loved ones.Initially, firefighters suspect that **the fire may have originated from a short circuit**. However, the exact cause of the fire is still uncertain. Investigations are underway to determine how the fire spread so quickly, whether the hotel had adequate fire safety measures, and if there were any faults in the electrical connections.The police administration has already begun an investigation into the incident. CCTV footage from the hotel, electrical connections, and fire safety measures are being examined. The actual cause of the fire will become clear only after the investigation.This tragic incident has cast a shadow of mourning over Tarapith. Investigators are now focused on how the fire started and whether there were any lapses in safety measures.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 29 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 17, 2026

Rare Chameleon Found on Guava Tree in Ghatala, Rescued by Forest Department

**Ghatala:** A rare chameleon weighing about 500 grams was spotted on a guava tree in the village of Kuran in the Ghatala police station area of West Medinipur district, causing quite a stir. Upon receiving the news, forest department workers arrived at the scene and rescued it.According to local sources, family members of Kartik Pandit, a resident of Kuran village, suddenly spotted the chameleon on their guava tree. The sighting of this unfamiliar creature sparked curiosity in the area. Subsequently, the forest department was informed.Upon receiving the news, forest department workers carefully rescued the chameleon at the scene. It was later taken to a safe location.According to forest department sources, the chameleon is currently listed as an endangered species. Therefore, if a chameleon is spotted anywhere, it is requested to inform the forest department promptly instead of capturing or harming it.While the presence of this rare creature in a home tree naturally caused excitement, the local residents felt relieved that it was safely rescued due to the prompt action of the forest department.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 28 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 16, 2026

Floodwaters Inundate Villages, People of Potashpur Displaced! Rising Water Levels in Keleghai Raise Flood Fears Again

**East Medinipur:** Continuous rain and rising river water levels have created fears of flooding again in Potashpur, East Medinipur. Water has already entered vast areas of the Potashpur-1 block. Residents are facing severe hardships as roads and homes in several areas including Naipur, Gopalpur, and Gokulpur are submerged. In some places, the water has overflowed onto the roads, rushing into the villages. Many residents are being forced to leave their homes in search of safe shelter as water has entered numerous houses.Farmland is also now submerged. Farmers are in despair over the potential loss of crops. With water in their homes and fields flooded, the common people are practically at their wits' end, facing problems on both fronts.### Dangerous Situation on Potashpur-Balichak State RoadThe most concerning situation has developed on the Potashpur-Balichak state road. With more than waist-deep water accumulating on the road, normal traffic has been severely disrupted. People are risking their safety by crossing the water on tractors, four-wheelers, and bikes. Locals fear that accidents could occur at any moment while navigating through the water currents.The same scene is visible in the Teparpara area of Potashpur. As the road is submerged, water is flowing into the village. As the water level continues to rise, panic is increasing among residents of low-lying areas and those living near the riverbank.### Rising Water Levels in Keleghai RiverMeanwhile, the water level in the Keleghai River is rising rapidly. This has raised concerns that the situation may worsen. The memories of the devastating flood of 2021 are still fresh in the minds of the people of Potashpur. Therefore, seeing the river water rise again has created new panic in the area. The riverside residents are anxious about whether there will be a repeat of that old disaster.### Administration and Irrigation Department MonitoringThe administration and the irrigation department are keeping a close watch on the situation. Various precautionary measures have been taken to deal with potential disasters, including inspecting the condition of the embankments. However, concerns remain about how the situation will unfold if the continuous rain and river water levels rise further.At this moment, the people of Potashpur have one question—**When will the water woes end? When will normalcy return to public life?** The riverside and low-lying residents are now looking towards whether the river water levels will rise further.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 25 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 16, 2026

Malda's Mahenandatola Devastated by River Erosion, Families Demolishing Their Own Homes in Panic

**Malda:** The Ganges has taken a terrifying form as the water level rises. Since morning, extensive erosion has begun in the Jitutola and Muniram Tola areas of Mahenandatola in Malda's Ratua block. One after another, homes are being submerged in the river's embrace. The intensity of the erosion has increased to such an extent that many families are demolishing their own homes in panic and moving to safer places.Local residents complain that every year during the monsoon, they have to face devastation due to the river's erosion. Homes, land, and homesteads disappear into the river right before their eyes. This year, with the rising water level, new erosion has begun again. As a result, people in the area are spending their days in fear of losing their roofs overnight.Residents further complain that as soon as erosion begins, political leaders and administrative officials come to the area to inspect the situation. However, even after the inspection, no effective measures are taken to permanently stop the erosion. They allege that despite the same problem recurring year after year, a permanent solution has not been found.Currently, many families are demolishing their homes to save themselves from the river's terrifying grasp, moving essential belongings elsewhere. This has created an atmosphere of panic throughout the area.Locals demand that effective measures be taken quickly to stop the erosion and that rehabilitation arrangements be made for the affected families. They fear that if the administration does not take prompt action, many more homes and homesteads will be swallowed by the river in the coming days.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 33 reads

কলকাতা Aug 13, 2026

Final Rehearsal on Red Road Before Independence Day, Signs of Change on the Stage

**Kolkata:** The final rehearsal was completed on Red Road in Kolkata ahead of Independence Day. The Kolkata Police Commissioner and senior officials from the administration were present at the rehearsal. This rehearsal was organized to review the preparations for the main event on August 15.This year’s Independence Day celebrations will feature several new additions. The organizers have announced that for the first time, the song **‘Vande Mataram’** will be performed at the event. This performance is planned to take place after Chief Minister Shuvendu Adhikari arrives on the podium. Following this, the national flag will be hoisted and the national anthem will be sung as per tradition.Special arrangements have been made to commemorate the **150th anniversary of the composition of ‘Vande Mataram’**. There are plans to highlight this historic occasion at the Independence Day event on Red Road in Kolkata, modeled after Delhi's Red Fort.One of the major attractions of the event will be the tableaux of various government schemes. A total of about **12 tableaux** are expected to participate. Initiatives such as the Annapurna Yojana, VGB Ramji Project, housing schemes, and free bus services for women will be showcased there.Additionally, there are plans to highlight various important personalities and topics from Bengal's history and socio-political landscape in the tableaux. From Shyama Prasad Mukherjee to various central projects, multiple subjects are expected to find a place in this year’s tableaux.Another major attraction at the Independence Day event could be **flower shower from a helicopter**. The rehearsal has reviewed the security of the event site, the stage, the path of the tableaux, and other arrangements.Overall, the event on Red Road on August 15 is set to present several new surprises. The administration claims that this year’s event has been organized keeping in mind national heritage, the history of the freedom struggle, and various government initiatives.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 37 reads

কলকাতা Aug 13, 2026

Mystery Death of Nurse at NRS Hospital, Body Found in Toilet

After the RG Kar incident raised multiple questions about security in Kolkata's hospitals, another report of a mysterious death has emerged from a hospital. This time, an unusual death of a nurse at Nil Ratan Sircar Medical College and Hospital, or NRS, has created a stir.The nurse's body was recovered from the toilet of the hospital's HDU in the gynecology department. She was on duty Wednesday night. When her colleagues could not find her at the workplace, they began searching for her. Later, she was found inside the toilet of the HDU.Initial information from hospital sources suggests that some medication may have been injected into the nurse's body. However, it is still unclear how she died or how the medication entered her body. The police are investigating whether the incident was an accident, suicide, or if there is another reason behind it.Upon receiving news of the incident, the police arrived at the hospital. The body has been sent for autopsy. Investigators hope that a clearer understanding of the cause of death will emerge once the autopsy report is available.Questions have already begun to arise regarding the hospital's security measures and the circumstances at the scene. How did a nurse on duty mysteriously die in the HDU toilet, what kind of medication was found in her body, and how did that medication enter her body—these are all questions the police are seeking answers to.It is believed that the true cause of this mysterious death will come to light after the autopsy report and investigation.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 26 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 10, 2026

Months of Construction Work Halted on the Bridge in Sitarampur, Demands for Administrative Intervention

**Kulati:** Devotees are facing severe hardships while going to worship at the Chandrachur Temple during the holy month of Shravan. Due to the prolonged halt of construction work on the bridge over the Garui River, local residents and pilgrims are currently crossing the river using a dangerous bamboo platform. The situation has worsened with the rising water levels in the river during the monsoon.According to local sources, construction work for a bridge over the Garui River was initiated in the Vidai Ghar area adjacent to Sitarampur Loco in Ward 19 of Asansol Municipal Corporation for the convenience of public transportation. However, it is alleged by locals that the construction work was abruptly halted before the assembly elections.Several months have passed since then, but the construction work for the bridge has not resumed. Incomplete pillars of the bridge are lying in the middle of the river. As a result, local residents and devotees going to the temple have to rely on the shaky bamboo platform to cross the river.### Increased Risk of Accidents During MonsoonDuring the month of Shravan, the crowd of devotees pouring water at the Chandrachur Temple increases. Many people travel this route to the temple every day. On the other hand, due to the monsoon, the water level in the Garui River has also risen.In this situation, children, women, and the elderly are also risking their lives by crossing the river on the bamboo platform. Locals fear that even a slight carelessness or slipping from the platform could lead to a major accident.### Demand for Immediate Resumption of Bridge WorkDue to the prolonged halt of the bridge construction work, anger is growing among local residents and pilgrims visiting the Chandrachur Temple. They demand that the incomplete bridge over the Garui River should be resumed quickly, keeping in mind the safety of the people.Local residents and pilgrims have appealed to Minister Ajay Poddar, Agnimitra Pal, and the administration for immediate intervention. They claim that if a permanent bridge is constructed, the local people will be freed from this daily risky river crossing.Now it remains to be seen when the administration will take action regarding the long-stalled bridge construction work and when the construction work will resume. Local residents are looking forward to whether a permanent solution to the problem will be found before the crowd of devotees increases during the month of Shravan.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 50 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 10, 2026

Police Seizes Truck Loaded with Cattle at Duburdihi Checkpost, Four Arrested Including Driver

**Asansol:** Police seized a truck loaded with cattle at the Duburdihi checkpost on the West Bengal-Jharkhand border. A total of four people, including the truck driver, have been arrested in the incident. They were detained for failing to present valid documents, police sources said.According to local sources, on Monday, the Gau Raksha Committee of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad received information about a truck carrying cattle in the Duburdihi checkpost area. The organization then informed the police at the Chaurangi outpost.Upon receiving the information, the police acted swiftly. They conducted a raid at the Duburdihi checkpost and detained the suspicious truck. Several cattle were recovered after inspecting the truck. The police arrested four people, including the driver, for not being able to show the necessary valid documents for transporting the livestock.Chandrashekhar Shaw, a member of the Gau Raksha Committee of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, claimed that the cattle were loaded from the Maithon area. They learned from the driver that the livestock was being taken towards the Bangladesh border.Chandrashekhar Shaw said, **“These cattle were loaded from Maithon. From the driver, we learned that they were heading towards the Bangladesh border. The police have detained them. We want legal action to be taken.”**Following the incident, the police have begun an investigation into the detained livestock and the truck. They are looking into where the livestock was loaded from, where it was being taken, and whether anyone else is involved in this transportation. The four detained individuals are being interrogated to gather detailed information about the entire incident.However, it has been reported by police sources that whether the necessary documents and legal regulations for livestock transportation were followed will only be clear after the investigation is completed.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 45 reads

মুর্শিদাবাদ Aug 10, 2026

Major Success for Police in Lalgola, Inter-District Bike Smuggling Ring Uncovered! 17 Stolen Motorcycles Recovered

**Lalgola:** While investigating a motorcycle theft, the Lalgola police achieved a significant success. Based on the investigation, two suspects from an inter-district bike smuggling ring were caught. After interrogating the arrested individuals, a total of **17 stolen motorcycles** were recovered through various operations. Police sources indicate that the names of two more accomplices have also emerged in this case.According to police sources, a motorcycle theft complaint was filed at Lalgola police station on **May 27, 2026**. Based on the complaint, a case numbered **446/26** was registered. The police initiated an investigation under section **303(2) of BNS**.At the beginning of the investigation, investigators reviewed multiple **CCTV footages** from the crime scene and surrounding areas. They started identifying suspects involved in the theft by analyzing the footage. Subsequently, several important pieces of information came to light during the investigation.The police claimed that acting on a tip-off, an operation was conducted in the Raghunathganj police station area on **August 1, 2026**. From there, one of the main accused in the case, **Kamal Sheikh**, was arrested. After being presented in court, he was taken into police custody for 10 days.During prolonged interrogation in police custody, investigators claimed to have obtained crucial information from Kamal Sheikh. During questioning, he confessed to his crime and revealed the name of his accomplice, **Tinku Sheikh**.Based on the information provided by Kamal, the Lalgola police conducted another operation in the Raghunathganj area. During this operation, **Tinku Sheikh** was arrested. Investigators began questioning the two while they were face-to-face.The police claimed that during interrogation, the arrested individuals provided the locations of various hidden stolen motorcycles. Based on that information, the police conducted continuous search operations in multiple areas and recovered a total of **17 stolen motorcycles**. The recovered bikes have been seized.Further investigation revealed the names of two more accomplices linked to this bike smuggling ring. Search operations have already begun to locate them.The recovery of 17 stolen motorcycles while investigating a single bike theft has created a stir in the area. The Lalgola police are looking into whether this ring is connected to a larger **inter-district stolen bike smuggling network** or if there is another organized network behind it.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 54 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 08, 2026

65-Year-Old Man Drowns While Bathing in Bhagirathi, Search Underway

**Kalna:** A 65-year-old man has gone missing after drowning while bathing in the Bhagirathi River. The incident has caused a stir in the area under the Kalna police station in East Bardhaman. The missing person's name is **Ramprasad Ghosh (65)**. He resides in the Surjapur area of the Atghoria Simlan Panchayat under the Kalna police station.According to local sources, on Saturday, Ramprasad Ghosh went to bathe at the pier of the Peerinagar JBM brick kiln on his bicycle. While bathing, he suddenly began to drown in the waters of the Bhagirathi. After floating for some time, he submerged again near the Peerinagar ferry ghat.As soon as the incident was noticed, the boatmen at the ghat tried to rescue him by throwing bamboo. However, within moments, Ramprasad disappeared under the water. Local residents then informed the police and administration.The missing person's son stated that his father had gone to bathe at the Peerinagar JBM brick kiln ghat on his bicycle. The accident occurred suddenly there.Upon receiving the news, the Kalna police arrived at the scene. Present were the IC of Kalna police station, the IC of Dhatrigram outpost, and other police officials. **Disaster management workers** have begun a search for the missing person.As of 3 PM on Saturday, there has been no trace of Ramprasad Ghosh. A search operation is underway in the waters of the Bhagirathi for him. Family members, along with local residents, are also waiting by the riverbank.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 42 reads

মুর্শিদাবাদ Aug 08, 2026

Serious Allegations Against BJP Leader by Housewife, Claims Husband's 'Temptation' Led to Broken Marriage! Stir in Bharatpur

**Bharatpur, Murshidabad:** As the political heat surrounding the assembly elections cools down, personal relationships and family disputes have sparked a stir in Murshidabad's Bharatpur. A housewife named Purnima Das has filed a written complaint against BJP's Bharatpur assembly candidate Anamika Ghosh and Congress's election agent Uddipan Das at the police station. She alleges that despite having a long-standing marital relationship, her husband was lured away, leading to the breakdown of their marriage. She has also raised allegations of mental and physical abuse.Facing reporters on Saturday, Purnima Das claimed that she had a legally registered and socially recognized marriage with Uddipan Das. They have two sons together. She alleges that she has been subjected to abuse at the hands of her husband at various times since their marriage.Purnima claims that in the recent assembly elections, Anamika Ghosh was the BJP candidate for the 69th Bharatpur assembly seat. On the other hand, Uddipan Das worked as the election agent for Congress candidate Mohammad Azharuddin Sizar.The housewife alleges that since the elections, her husband's closeness with Anamika Ghosh has increased. This has led to unrest in her marriage with her husband. At one point, she claims she was physically assaulted. When the situation escalated, she claims she moved to her father's house.Subsequently, on July 27, Purnima claims that Uddipan Das married Anamika Ghosh. She alleges that despite having a previous marital relationship and two children, her husband has remarried. She also claims that she is receiving threats over the phone.Purnima further claims that as a woman from an ordinary family, she is under pressure from influential circles. However, she has stated that she will continue to fight legally against the allegations. She claims that two separate written complaints have already been filed at the police station under specific sections.### What does Anamika Ghosh say?Meanwhile, BJP leader Anamika Ghosh has released a video message on social media stating her position. She claims that she is married and will legally address the allegations made against her.Anamika further claims that there is a smear campaign against her on social media. She has stated that she will respond to the allegations legally.The incident has already created significant stir in political and social circles in Bharatpur. On one hand, serious allegations of second marriage, abuse, and threats have been raised by the housewife. On the other hand, the accused BJP leader has claimed that the allegations are a smear campaign and has stated her intention to address them legally.However, the veracity of the allegations raised by Purnima Das, the marital status of the individuals involved, and the legal validity of the second marriage will all become clear through investigation and court proceedings. Until the allegations are proven, no party's claims can be considered the final truth.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 74 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 07, 2026

Anger Over Poor Roads and Drainage Issues in Shantipur, Locals Block Road with Bamboo

**Shantipur:** The road adjacent to the highly important Advait Pat and Station in Shantipur has been in a dilapidated state for a long time. Especially in the area near the 2nd railway gate of Shantipur, the absence of drainage systems makes the situation even worse during the monsoon. Local residents have been demanding a solution to the road and drainage issues for almost three years. Despite repeated notifications, a permanent solution to the problem has not been found so far.Locals claim that during the previous government, the then Trinamool MLA and the former councilor of Ward No. 1 of the municipality were informed about the issues multiple times. They even submitted written applications. They allege that assurances were given for the construction of drainage systems. However, they complain that while drainage systems have been constructed in a nearby alley, the main problem area has not seen any work done yet.As a result, frustration has been building among the local people. Finally, on Thursday, to draw the administration's attention to the demand for road construction, local residents protested in the area adjacent to the 2nd railway gate of Shantipur. They temporarily blocked the road with bamboo. This protest lasted for almost eight hours.Upon receiving the news, the police administration from Shantipur reached the scene. Additionally, the BJP councilor of Ward No. 1, Mahananda Biswas, came to the site to understand the local people's issues. He spoke with the locals and listened to their problems. Residents urged the councilor to quickly resolve the road and drainage issues.Afterward, Councilor Mahananda Biswas stated that the demands of the local people are completely justified. He alleged that during the previous municipal board's tenure, local people were misled regarding the construction of drainage systems. He claimed that the influence of the then MLA was also present at that time. He assured that the situation has changed now and he will take initiative to resolve the people's problems.The councilor mentioned that he will review the approved drainage project in the municipality at the next BOC (Board of Councilors) meeting. He also stated that if there are any irregularities related to the 'My Neighborhood, My Solution' project in the area, those will also be accounted for.His clear statement was that the road and drainage issues must be resolved using the funds approved by the municipality without looking at any other funding sources. The councilor assured that he would take the responsibility for this work.With the councilor's assurance, the local residents temporarily lifted the blockade. However, it remains to be seen how effective the promise of problem resolution will be in practice.On the other hand, the councilor also warned the local residents that they need to be aware of the maintenance of the road. Because very heavy vehicles operate irregularly on this road. Therefore, even if the road is constructed, if the movement of excessively heavy vehicles is not controlled, there is a risk of the road being damaged again.After receiving assurances for a permanent solution to the long-standing road and drainage issues, the residents of the 2nd railway gate area of Shantipur are now waiting for administrative action.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 34 reads

কলকাতা Aug 06, 2026

Attempt to Smuggle Gold, Diamonds, and Precious Stones Worth Crores at Kolkata Airport; Youth from Rajasthan Arrested

**Kolkata:** A youth has been arrested by the Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate’s **NSCBI Police Station** for allegedly attempting to smuggle nearly **one crore rupees worth of gold, diamonds, precious stones, and emeralds** from Kolkata Airport. The arrested individual is named **Ram Avatar Sharma** and is a resident of Rajasthan. He will be presented in **Barakpur Court** on Thursday.According to police sources, the NSCBI Police were monitoring the area near Kolkata Airport on Wednesday evening based on a tip-off. During this time, a scooter was stopped on suspicion. A large quantity of precious metals was recovered from the scooter during the search.The recovered items include nearly **400 grams of gold**, with an estimated market value of **around 60 lakhs**. Additionally, several hundred grams of silver and diamonds, along with various precious gems including emeralds, were also recovered. The total estimated market value of the recovered items is **around one crore rupees**, according to initial police estimates.During the investigation, police learned that the arrested individual was taking gold jewelry collected from a person at Kolkata Airport on the scooter. It has come to light in the preliminary investigation that the plan was to deliver these valuable items to **Bada Bazar in Kolkata**.The NSCBI Police will interrogate the arrested Ram Avatar Sharma in custody. Investigators suspect that an organized gang is active in this smuggling case. They are looking into who else is involved in that gang and where the precious metals and gems were sourced from and planned to be supplied.The police stated that they will present the arrested individual in court and request custody. Investigators believe that more members of this smuggling ring may be arrested as the investigation progresses.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 59 reads

কলকাতা Aug 06, 2026

Financial Assistance for Building Homes with Two Hands! Second Installment of 10 Lakhs, Identifying Another 20 Lakhs Families in Awas Plus

**Own Report:** A significant initiative has been taken in the state for the housing project for homeless families. On one hand, preparations have begun to send the second installment of money to the accounts of nearly 10 lakh beneficiaries who have completed construction work up to the lintel after receiving the first installment under the 'West Bengal Awas' (formerly 'Banglar Bari') project. On the other hand, a vigorous **Awas Plus** survey is underway to identify actual homeless families, where nearly 20 lakh potential beneficiaries have already been identified.According to administrative sources, this survey is being conducted across the state under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G), going door to door. The sole objective is to ensure that no eligible family is deprived of the benefits of the housing project.### Second Installment for 10 Lakh BeneficiariesAccording to government sources, a survey conducted among nearly 18 lakh families listed in the previously announced housing project reveals that 10 lakh families have completed construction work up to the lintel. The process of releasing the second installment of money for these beneficiaries has begun.On the other hand, several fake and ineligible names have been caught during the administrative verification among the remaining applicants. For this reason, a new list is being prepared with a stricter and more transparent method.### Identifying Another 20 Lakh Families in Awas PlusIn the new survey, nearly 20 lakh potential beneficiaries have already been identified. Those who have not received benefits from any state or central housing project in the past are being prioritized for listing.The administration claims that the final list will be prepared after directly verifying the socio-economic status, living conditions, and documents of each family.### Survey Deadline Extended to August 15In the interest of preparing a transparent and accurate list, the deadline for the Awas Plus survey has been extended to **August 15, 2026**. Representatives and government officials at the panchayat level are collecting and verifying information door to door.After the survey is completed, a new list of beneficiaries will be prepared based on the final report. Subsequently, a decision will be made regarding the allocation of financial assistance for the next phase in coordination with the state and central government.### Emphasis on Ensuring TransparencyIn the past, there have been multiple complaints about the inclusion of fake and ineligible individuals in the housing project, prompting the administration to place special emphasis on transparency this time. For this reason, the information of each applicant is being verified at multiple levels to ensure that only actual homeless families benefit from the government housing project.The administration hopes that once the new survey is completed, a larger number of homeless families will have the opportunity to construct permanent homes, and the benefits of the housing project will reach a wider audience.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 55 reads

মুর্শিদাবাদ Aug 06, 2026

25 Crore Promise, Repeated Check Bounces! Humayun Kabir Removed from the Presidency of Mohun Bagan Sporting

**Kolkata:** Humayun Kabir, the MLA from Naoda, had promised to provide 25 crore rupees in financial assistance to the financially troubled Mohun Bagan Sporting Club. Based on that promise, he was entrusted with the presidency of the club. However, due to repeated breaches of promise and consecutive check bounces, the executive committee of Mohun Bagan Sporting ultimately decided to remove him from the presidency.On Thursday, the executive committee of the club held an emergency meeting. It was unanimously decided in the meeting that Humayun Kabir would be removed from the presidency. In his place, Gajal Zafar has been appointed as the new president.According to club sources, Humayun Kabir had assured to resolve the long-standing financial crisis of Mohun Bagan upon taking office. He had mentioned not only settling the club's debts but also providing financial assistance of around 25 crore rupees. However, it is alleged that none of those promises were fulfilled in reality.It is alleged that multiple checks signed by Humayun Kabir bounced consecutively. Not just once, but the checks bounced three times in a row, creating intense dissatisfaction among the club authorities. It has been reported that although checks worth approximately 1.5 crore rupees were given to the club, not a single penny has been deposited into the club's account.Following this incident, a legal notice was sent to Humayun Kabir from the club last Monday. The notice mentioned that the money from the checks he provided has not been received and that the matter indicates dishonest intentions towards the club, which could also be considered a serious legal issue.However, the club authorities claim that there has been no improvement in the situation even after sending the legal notice. Subsequently, a decision was made to call an emergency meeting. Although Humayun Kabir was invited to the meeting, he was not present.Meanwhile, posters reading 'When will we get the money?' have also created a stir at the Mohun Bagan ground. The discontent among some members and supporters of the club has become even more apparent. Ultimately, the executive committee decided to remove Humayun Kabir from the presidency.Club vice-president Wasim Akram stated that this decision has been made in accordance with the club's constitution. He said, “This incident will remain a dark chapter in the history of Mohun Bagan Sporting.”However, even after the change of president, Mohun Bagan's financial crisis has not been resolved. The club still bears a huge burden of debt. The biggest challenge for the new leadership will be to extricate the club from that financial problem and build a stable financial structure for the future.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 63 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 06, 2026

Two motorcyclists arrested in Gazole, huge amount of cash recovered from two bags

**Maldah:** Acting on a tip-off, the police of Gazole police station conducted a raid and arrested two suspicious motorcyclists in the Rangabita area. A large amount of cash was recovered from the two bags they were carrying. The incident has created a significant stir in the area.According to police sources, the Gazole police were monitoring the Rangabita area based on secret information. During this time, two youths traveling on two motorcycles towards Maldah were arrested. Upon discovering a large amount of cash in the two bags they had, the police immediately informed their superiors.Upon receiving the news, Gazole police station's IC Kaushik Banerjee and other police officials arrived at the scene. Subsequently, a cash counting machine was brought from the station to begin the process of counting the recovered cash.Initially, it has been learned that one of the arrested youths is from Birgar village under Vaishnavnagar police station, while the other is from Sahabajpur village under Kaliacok police station. However, the police are investigating where they obtained such a large amount of cash and where they were taking it.According to preliminary observations by the police, the recovered cash includes multiple bundles of 500, 200, and 100 rupee notes. As of the writing of this report, the exact amount of cash has not been determined. The counting of cash is ongoing at the Gazole police station.As news of the incident spread, a large crowd of local residents gathered at the scene. The Gazole police are investigating the source, legality, and any possible connection to criminal networks regarding the recovered cash. Once the cash counting is complete and there is progress in the investigation, the police will formally release detailed information.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 41 reads

কলকাতা Aug 05, 2026

Sudden Surprise Visit of Chief Minister Shuvendu Adhikari to Watgach and Ekbalpur Police Stations, Inspecting Police Services

**Kolkata:** West Bengal Chief Minister Shuvendu Adhikari made an unexpected visit to the Watgach and Ekbalpur police stations in Kolkata without any prior announcement. He conducted this surprise visit without informing the top police officials in advance. The Chief Minister personally inspected the infrastructure of the police stations, the law and order situation, and the quality of police services for the general public.According to sources, the Chief Minister first arrived at the Watgach police station and toured various departments of the station. He inquired in detail about the women’s help desk, the process of filing FIRs, the duties of the duty officer, and the daily administrative arrangements of the station. He also discussed with the present police personnel how complaints from the general public are received, how they are documented, and how quickly actions are taken based on the complaints.The Chief Minister also separately reviewed the activities of the women’s police station located in the Watgach police station premises. He gathered information regarding the procedure for resolving women-related complaints, the security arrangements, and the quality of services.During the visit, the Chief Minister placed special emphasis on the security arrangements of the police station. He personally checked whether the fire extinguishers at the station are in working condition, whether their expiry dates are regularly checked, and whether they are ready for use in emergencies.He also collected detailed information from the present police officers regarding the total number of police personnel working at the station, how many are on round duty, the responsibilities of the duty officer, and how police services are managed during different shifts.After inspecting the Watgach police station for about 15 minutes, the Chief Minister proceeded to the Ekbalpur police station. There too, he inspected the infrastructure of the police station, security arrangements, the process of receiving complaints, and the quality of public service police services. This sudden visit also resulted in noticeable activity among the police personnel at the stations.According to some administrative sources, the main objective of the Chief Minister's surprise visit was to directly observe the real situation of the police stations and to review the assurance of prompt and transparent police services to the general public. There are indications that similar surprise visits may occur at various police stations in the state in the future.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 48 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 05, 2026

Malda's Cash and Cough Syrup Recovery Worth Crores: Malda Police and BSF Investigation Team Headed to South Dinajpur for Interrogation

**Malda:** The Malda district police have intensified their investigation into the recovery of cash worth crores, gold, and a large quantity of illegal cough syrup. A joint investigation team from Malda district police and BSF will head to South Dinajpur within the next two days for questioning the accused. At the same time, Malda's Superintendent of Police Anupam Singh has announced an increase in surveillance in various residential and rented flats in Malda district.It is noteworthy that during a raid by South Dinajpur police in the Manglabari area of Malda police station on Sunday night, **approximately 2 crore 40 lakh 97 thousand 370 rupees in cash** and **20 grams of gold** were recovered. In the same operation, **approximately 9 thousand bottles of cough syrup** were seized from another warehouse, with an estimated market value of around **20 lakh rupees**.Preliminary investigations suggest that the money stored in that flat was obtained through the smuggling of cough syrup from Bangladesh. So far, **three people have been arrested** from Malda in connection with this incident. According to investigators, this syndicate has been engaged in illegal smuggling for a long time using the border area.Superintendent of Police Anupam Singh stated that a joint investigation team from Malda district police and BSF will soon go to South Dinajpur for further questioning of the accused and to gather information about the smuggling network. The investigation will also look into inter-district and cross-border communication aspects.Meanwhile, following this incident, the police have started special surveillance on rented houses and accommodations in populous areas of Malda district, including **English Bazar** and **Old Malda**. The Superintendent of Police has urged landlords to verify the identity, necessary documents, and background of any person before renting out a property. He has also advised informing the relevant police station if necessary.The police stated that since it is a border district between India and Bangladesh, anti-social and criminal syndicates may attempt to use rented houses. Therefore, special emphasis is being placed on verifying the identity of tenants with the cooperation of the general public.Investigations are ongoing to identify the sources of the large amounts of cash, gold, and cough syrup, the extent of the smuggling network, and other individuals involved.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 33 reads

বিনোদন Aug 04, 2026

Madhumita Sarkar in Discomfort Amidst Fans' Enthusiasm in Bangladesh, Viral Event Video

**Entertainment Desk:** Popular actress **Madhumita Sarkar** is set to embark on a new chapter through the Indo-Bangladesh co-production film **‘Gulshan-er Chameli’**. Recently, she traveled to Bangladesh to participate in the official announcement event of the film. However, after the event, she faced a somewhat uncomfortable situation amidst a massive crowd of fans. A video of that incident has already gone viral on social media.At the event, Madhumita appeared in a bright red saree, captivating the audience with her look and presence. Also present on the same stage was popular Bangladeshi actress **Azmeri Haque Badhan**. Madhumita participated in the announcement of the film, cake cutting, and the media Q&A session with a smile.However, after the event concluded, the situation changed. The viral video shows numerous fans surrounding the actress to catch a glimpse and take selfies. As the enthusiasm of the fans escalated, Madhumita appeared to be somewhat uncomfortable. Many tried to get very close to take pictures, making it difficult to manage security.The video also shows that before the situation got out of control, Madhumita's husband **Debmalya** attempted to take her safely out of the crowd. With the help of security personnel, he eventually escorted her out of the event venue.https://www.instagram.com/reel/Dbgm0hnzJTu/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==It is worth mentioning that facing uncomfortable situations due to excessive enthusiasm from fans is not new. Previously, several Tollywood stars, such as **Jeet**, **Dev**, and **Shubhashree Ganguly**, have encountered similar situations at various events.Notably, **‘Gulshan-er Chameli’** is set to be produced as a joint venture between India and Bangladesh. The film's shooting is scheduled to take place in various locations in Bangladesh and Kolkata in **December**. Simultaneously, Madhumita has recently started a new innings in her acting career in South Indian cinema, which is seen as an important step in her career.The viral video has elicited mixed reactions among netizens. While some praised the love of the fans, others emphasized the need to maintain the personal space and security of the stars.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 52 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 04, 2026

Protests by ASHA workers in Indas demanding resignation of Chandana Bauri wearing black badges, memorandum submitted to BDO

**Bankura:** Recently, a video that went viral surrounding Shaltohara MLA Chandana Bauri has heated up Indas in Bankura. On Tuesday, ASHA workers from the Indas block protested wearing black badges and demanded the resignation of the MLA. Later, they submitted a written memorandum to the Block Development Officer (BDO).On Tuesday, ASHA workers from various areas of the Indas block gathered in front of the BDO office. Holding placards and wearing black badges on their arms, they participated in a sit-in protest. The protesters paid tribute to the late ASHA worker **Rumpa Mondal** by sitting on the ground in front of her portrait.The ASHA workers alleged that in a recently viral video on social media, Shaltohara MLA **Chandana Bauri** scolded an ASHA worker and referred to ASHA workers as

by Editor - Bengal News Net 49 reads

মুর্শিদাবাদ Aug 04, 2026

Two pedestrians swept away by the current in the Mayurakshi River, saved by the prompt action of local boatmen

**Murshidabad:** A major accident was narrowly avoided in the Banga block of Murshidabad. A woman and a man were swept away by the strong current while crossing the Mayurakshi River. Thanks to the prompt action of local boatmen, both were rescued quickly. The incident has caused a stir in the area.According to local sources, the incident occurred at **Paanthupi-Sarbashi Ghat in the Banga block of Murshidabad district**. From early Thursday morning, the water level of the Mayurakshi River suddenly rose. The intensity of the current in the river also increased significantly. In that situation, while crossing the river, a woman and a man lost their balance and were swept away by the water.Hearing the screams, local boatmen at the ghat quickly jumped into the river to begin the rescue operation. After a long effort, both were safely brought to the shore. Locals claim that if it weren't for the quick actions of the boatmen, a major loss of life could have occurred.After the incident, panic spread in the area. During the monsoon season, the water level of the river rises rapidly, forcing ordinary people to take risks every day while crossing. Local residents complain that there are insufficient safety measures at the river ghat. Even when the water level rises, there is a lack of warning boards, barricades, or administrative oversight.Residents of the area demand that strict safety measures for river crossing during the monsoon, regular administrative oversight, and necessary warning systems be implemented immediately to prevent such dangerous situations in the future.So far, there has been no official response from the administration regarding this incident.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 54 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Aug 04, 2026

Double Success of GRP in Malda: 10 kg of Cannabis Found in Train's AC Compartment Bathroom, 4 Arrested with 1.190 kg of Brown Sugar at Malda Court Station

**Malda:** The Malda Government Railway Police (GRP) achieved a significant success against drug trafficking. In two separate operations, the police recovered nearly **10 kg of cannabis** and **1 kg 190 grams of brown sugar**. A total of four individuals have been arrested in the incident. The arrested individuals were presented in the Malda District Court on Wednesday. The GRP has initiated an investigation into the entire incident.According to GRP sources, the first incident occurred on the **Down Kanchanjungha Express**. Acting on a tip-off, GRP officials conducted a search in the air-conditioned reserved compartment after the train arrived at Malda station. During the operation, approximately **10 kg of cannabis** was recovered from the bathroom of the AC compartment.In this incident, three women have been arrested. The names of the arrested are **Promila Devi**, **Ankita Devi**, and **Archana Devi**. It is reported that they hail from the Manihar and Kurshila areas of Katihar district in Bihar. Preliminary investigations suggest that there was an attempt to smuggle drugs using the bathroom of the train's AC compartment in a planned manner.Meanwhile, on the same day, a youth was arrested with **1 kg 190 grams of brown sugar** during an operation in the vicinity of **Malda Court Railway Station**. The arrested individual is named **Rana Kumar**. He is from Madhubani district in Bihar. The police stated that he was waiting to board the train to Malda-Katihar. At that time, based on a tip-off, he was apprehended, and a large quantity of brown sugar was recovered during the search.According to GRP sources, the four arrested individuals have been presented in the Malda District Court. Investigations are underway to determine where the recovered drugs were sourced from and where they were intended to be trafficked. Investigators are also looking into whether anyone else is involved in this network.The police claim that surveillance has been intensified to curb drug trafficking via railways, and such operations will continue in the future.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 43 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 30, 2026

দুর্গাপুজোর আগে মৃৎশিল্পীদের স্বস্তি, মাটি সমস্যার সমাধানে উদ্যোগী আমতার বিধায়ক অমিত সামন্ত

**আমতা, হাওড়া:** বাঙালির বারো মাসে তেরো পার্বণ, আর সেই উৎসবের অন্যতম প্রধান আকর্ষণ মাটির প্রতিমা। দুর্গাপুজোকে কেন্দ্র করে রাজ্যের বিভিন্ন কুমোরপাড়ায় এখন প্রতিমা তৈরির প্রস্তুতি শুরু হয়েছে পুরোদমে। যদিও আধুনিক সময়ে প্লাস্টিক ও অন্যান্য বিকল্প সামগ্রীর ব্যবহার বেড়েছে, তবুও মাটির প্রতিমার চাহিদা আজও অটুট। তবে প্রতিমা তৈরির জন্য প্রয়োজনীয় উপযুক্ত মাটি সংগ্রহ করাই এখন সবচেয়ে বড় চ্যালেঞ্জ হয়ে দাঁড়িয়েছে মৃৎশিল্পীদের কাছে।জানা গিয়েছে, গত প্রায় পনেরো বছর ধরে বিভিন্ন এলাকায় মাটি বিক্রিকে কেন্দ্র করে সক্রিয় হয়ে উঠেছে একটি অসাধু চক্র। স্থানীয়দের অভিযোগ, এই তথাকথিত ‘মাটি মাফিয়া’-দের দৌরাত্ম্যে প্রতিমা তৈরির উপযোগী এঁটেল ও বালিমাটি সংগ্রহ করতে নানাভাবে সমস্যার মুখে পড়ছেন শিল্পীরা। ব্যতিক্রম নয় হাওড়ার আমতা বিধানসভা এলাকাও।স্বভাবতই নিরীহ মৃৎশিল্পীরা মাটি মাফিয়াদের সঙ্গে সংঘাতে যেতে চান না। ফলে উপযুক্ত মাটি সংগ্রহে তাঁদের হয়রানি ও অতিরিক্ত খরচের সম্মুখীন হতে হচ্ছে। এই সমস্যার স্থায়ী সমাধানের দাবিতে সম্প্রতি আমতা বিধানসভার একাধিক মৃৎশিল্পী স্থানীয় বিধায়ক অমিত সামন্তের দ্বারস্থ হন।মৃৎশিল্পীদের অভিযোগ শোনার পর দ্রুত উদ্যোগ নেন বিধায়ক। তিনি আশ্বাস দিয়ে জানান, আপাতত প্রশাসন ও সংশ্লিষ্ট থানাগুলির সঙ্গে আলোচনা করে প্রতিমা শিল্পীদের জন্য একটি বিশেষ পরিচয়পত্র বা কার্ডের ব্যবস্থা করা হবে। এই কার্ড থাকলে বৈধভাবে মাটি সংগ্রহের ক্ষেত্রে পুলিশ বা অসাধু চক্রের কোনও অযথা বাধার মুখে তাঁদের পড়তে হবে না।এ প্রসঙ্গে বিধায়ক অমিত সামন্ত বলেন, **"থানাগুলির সঙ্গে কথা বলে মৃৎশিল্পীদের জন্য একটি কার্ড করে দেওয়ার উদ্যোগ নেওয়া হবে। যাতে পুলিশ বা মাটি মাফিয়াদের কারণে তাঁদের কোনও সমস্যায় পড়তে না হয়।"**বিধায়কের এই আশ্বাসে আশার আলো দেখছেন এলাকার মৃৎশিল্পীরা। তাঁদের মতে, প্রশাসনিক সহযোগিতা পেলে ভবিষ্যতে মাটি সংগ্রহের কাজ অনেক সহজ হবে। এতে সময়, শ্রম ও অতিরিক্ত খরচ—সবই কমবে। পাশাপাশি দুর্গাপুজোর আগে প্রতিমা তৈরির কাজও নির্বিঘ্নে এগিয়ে নিয়ে যাওয়া সম্ভব হবে।

by Editor - Bengal News Net 68 reads

বিনোদন Jul 30, 2026

জি বাংলার মহালয়ায় দুর্গারূপে অঙ্কিতা মল্লিক? সঙ্গে থাকছেন ইধিকা পাল, শুরু জোর চর্চা

**বিনোদন ডেস্ক:** রথযাত্রা শেষ হতেই শুরু হয়ে যায় দুর্গাপুজোর অপেক্ষা। শহর থেকে গ্রাম—সর্বত্র চলছে পুজোর প্রস্তুতি। একই সঙ্গে বাংলা টেলিভিশন চ্যানেলগুলিও মহালয়া অনুষ্ঠানের পরিকল্পনায় ব্যস্ত। প্রতি বছরই দর্শকদের কৌতূহলের কেন্দ্রবিন্দু থাকে—কোন অভিনেত্রী এবারে মহিষাসুরমর্দিনী বা মা দুর্গার রূপে ধরা দেবেন।এবার সেই তালিকায় জোরালোভাবে উঠে এসেছে অভিনেত্রী **অঙ্কিতা মল্লিকের** নাম। টেলিপাড়ার সূত্রের খবর, **জি বাংলার মহালয়া বিশেষ অনুষ্ঠানে দুর্গারূপে দেখা যেতে পারে অঙ্কিতা মল্লিককে**। যদিও চ্যানেলের পক্ষ থেকে এখনও পর্যন্ত আনুষ্ঠানিক ঘোষণা করা হয়নি।## 'জগদ্ধাত্রী' থেকে দুর্গারূপে অঙ্কিতাজি বাংলার জনপ্রিয় ধারাবাহিক **'জগদ্ধাত্রী'**-তে অভিনয়ের মাধ্যমে দর্শকদের ঘরে ঘরে পরিচিত মুখ হয়ে ওঠেন অঙ্কিতা মল্লিক। বর্তমানে তিনি প্রয়াত কিংবদন্তি অভিনেত্রী **মহুয়া রায়চৌধুরীর** জীবনীভিত্তিক ছবি **'গুনগুন করে মহুয়া'**-তে অভিনয় করছেন। ইতিমধ্যেই সেই ছবিতে তাঁর লুক দর্শকদের নজর কেড়েছে।এর আগেও 'জগদ্ধাত্রী' চলাকালীন মহালয়ার অনুষ্ঠানে দেবীরূপে অঙ্কিতাকে দেখা গিয়েছিল। ফলে এবারও তাঁকে দুর্গারূপে দেখতে পাওয়ার সম্ভাবনা নিয়ে দর্শকদের মধ্যে যথেষ্ট উৎসাহ তৈরি হয়েছে।## মহালয়ায় থাকছেন ইধিকা পালও?শুধু অঙ্কিতা নন, জি বাংলার মহালয়া অনুষ্ঠানে আরও এক জনপ্রিয় অভিনেত্রী **ইধিকা পাল**-কেও দেখা যেতে পারে বলে জানা যাচ্ছে। সূত্রের দাবি, তিনি দেবীর এক বিশেষ রূপে উপস্থিত থাকবেন।ইধিকা পাল সম্প্রতি দেব ও বাংলাদেশের অভিনেতা শাকিব খানের সঙ্গে কাজ করার সুবাদে আলোচনায় এসেছেন। পাশাপাশি তিনি বর্তমানে পরিচালক **সৃজিত মুখার্জির** নতুন ছবি **'কুইন ভিক্টোরিয়া আর গোয়েন্দা কানাইচরণ'**-এর কাজ নিয়েও ব্যস্ত।## মহালয়া ঘিরে শুরু হয়েছে প্রতিযোগিতাদুর্গাপুজোর আর ১০০ দিনেরও কম সময় বাকি। ফলে বিভিন্ন বাংলা বিনোদন চ্যানেল ইতিমধ্যেই মহালয়ার শুটিং ও পরিকল্পনা শুরু করে দিয়েছে।এরই মধ্যে **সান বাংলা** আনুষ্ঠানিকভাবে জানিয়েছে, তাদের মহালয়া অনুষ্ঠানে **দিতিপ্রিয়া রায়** দুর্গারূপে অভিনয় করবেন। সেই শুটিংও ইতিমধ্যে শেষ হয়েছে এবং তাঁর দেবীরূপের প্রথম ঝলক প্রকাশ্যে এসেছে।অন্যদিকে, জি বাংলা এবারও বড়সড় চমক রাখার প্রস্তুতি নিচ্ছে বলেই মনে করা হচ্ছে। যদিও অঙ্কিতা মল্লিক ও ইধিকা পালের উপস্থিতি নিয়ে এখনও পর্যন্ত কোনও সরকারি ঘোষণা করা হয়নি। তাই দর্শকদের অপেক্ষা এখন কেবল আনুষ্ঠানিক ঘোষণার।## দর্শকদের নজর এখন ঘোষণার দিকেপ্রতি বছর মহালয়ার বিশেষ অনুষ্ঠান নিয়ে বাংলা টেলিভিশন দর্শকদের আগ্রহ থাকে তুঙ্গে। এ বছরও ব্যতিক্রম নয়। অঙ্কিতা মল্লিক যদি সত্যিই দুর্গারূপে ধরা দেন এবং ইধিকা পালও বিশেষ চরিত্রে উপস্থিত হন, তবে জি বাংলার মহালয়া অনুষ্ঠান যে দর্শকদের কাছে অন্যতম আকর্ষণ হয়ে উঠবে, তা বলাই যায়।**(দ্রষ্টব্য: অঙ্কিতা মল্লিক ও ইধিকা পালের মহালয়ায় অংশগ্রহণের বিষয়ে এখনও পর্যন্ত চ্যানেলের তরফে আনুষ্ঠানিক ঘোষণা করা হয়নি। প্রতিবেদনটি টেলিপাড়া সূত্রে পাওয়া তথ্যের ভিত্তিতে প্রস্তুত করা হয়েছে।)**

by Editor - Bengal News Net 62 reads

বিনোদন Jul 29, 2026

নীল ব্রালেট লুকে ভাইরাল ত্রিধা চৌধুরী, মুগ্ধ অনুরাগীরা

বিনোদন ডেস্ক: ওটিটি প্ল্যাটফর্মের জনপ্রিয় সিরিজ **'আশ্রম'**-এ ববিতা ভাবী চরিত্রে অভিনয় করে দর্শকদের নজর কেড়েছিলেন বাঙালি অভিনেত্রী **ত্রিধা চৌধুরী**। অভিনয়ের পাশাপাশি তাঁর ফ্যাশন সেন্স ও সোশ্যাল মিডিয়া উপস্থিতিও বরাবরই আলোচনায় থাকে। এবার ইনস্টাগ্রামে শেয়ার করা নতুন কিছু ছবিতে নীল রঙের ব্রালেট লুকে ধরা দিয়ে ফের আলোচনার কেন্দ্রে উঠে এসেছেন তিনি।ভ্যাকেশনের মুহূর্ত থেকে পোস্ট করা এই ছবিগুলিতে আত্মবিশ্বাসী ও স্টাইলিশ লুকে দেখা গিয়েছে ত্রিধাকে। ছবি প্রকাশের পর অল্প সময়ের মধ্যেই হাজার হাজার লাইক, কমেন্ট ও শেয়ার জমা পড়েছে। অনুরাগীরা তাঁর ফ্যাশন স্টাইল এবং গ্ল্যামারাস উপস্থিতির প্রশংসায় ভরিয়ে দিয়েছেন কমেন্ট বক্স।## সোশ্যাল মিডিয়ায় দারুণ সক্রিয় অভিনেত্রীত্রিধা চৌধুরী নিয়মিতই নিজের বিভিন্ন ফটোশুট, ভ্রমণ এবং দৈনন্দিন জীবনের মুহূর্ত অনুরাগীদের সঙ্গে ভাগ করে নেন। তাঁর প্রতিটি পোস্টই দ্রুত ভাইরাল হয়। পশ্চিমী পোশাক থেকে শুরু করে ঐতিহ্যবাহী ভারতীয় সাজ—সব ধরনের লুকেই আত্মবিশ্বাসের সঙ্গে ধরা দেন তিনি।## 'আশ্রম' সিরিজে জনপ্রিয়তার শিখরেপ্রকাশ ঝা পরিচালিত জনপ্রিয় ওয়েব সিরিজ **'আশ্রম'**-এ ত্রিধার অভিনীত ববিতা ভাবী চরিত্রটি দর্শকদের মধ্যে ব্যাপক জনপ্রিয়তা পেয়েছিল। সেই সিরিজের পর থেকেই ওটিটি জগতে তাঁর পরিচিতি আরও বেড়ে যায়। বর্তমানে তিনি বিনোদন জগতের অন্যতম আলোচিত মুখ।## বাংলা থেকে বলিউড ও ওটিটিত্রিধা চৌধুরীর অভিনয়জীবনের সূচনা বাংলা সিনেমার মাধ্যমে। পরিচালক **সৃজিত মুখোপাধ্যায়** পরিচালিত চলচ্চিত্রে অভিনয়ের পর ধীরে ধীরে হিন্দি ওয়েব সিরিজ ও অন্যান্য প্রজেক্টে নিজের জায়গা শক্ত করেছেন তিনি। বর্তমানে বাংলা ও হিন্দি—দুই ক্ষেত্রেই সমান জনপ্রিয় এই অভিনেত্রী।## অনুরাগীদের নজরে নতুন ফ্যাশন স্টেটমেন্টসাম্প্রতিক ছবিতে নীল ব্রালেটের সঙ্গে মিনিমাল মেকআপ ও স্টাইলিশ লুক অনুরাগীদের বিশেষভাবে আকৃষ্ট করেছে। অনেকেই মন্তব্য করেছেন, ত্রিধার আত্মবিশ্বাস এবং ফ্যাশন সেন্স তাঁকে সমসাময়িক অভিনেত্রীদের মধ্যে আলাদা পরিচিতি দিয়েছে। নতুন এই লুক ইতিমধ্যেই সোশ্যাল মিডিয়ায় ব্যাপক আলোচনার জন্ম দিয়েছে।

by Editor - Bengal News Net 67 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 29, 2026

হাওড়ায় চলন্ত বাসে তাণ্ডব, যাত্রীদের প্রতিরোধে ধরা দুষ্কৃতী

হাওড়ার ক্ষীরেরতলা এলাকায় চলন্ত বাসে হামলা ও ভাঙচুরের ঘটনাকে কেন্দ্র করে চাঞ্চল্য ছড়িয়েছে। অভিযোগ, ৭২ নম্বর রুটের একটি যাত্রীবোঝাই বাসে উঠে তিন যুবক আচমকাই তাণ্ডব চালায়। চালককে মারধর, বাসের কাঁচ ভাঙচুর এবং কন্ডাক্টরের ব্যাগ ছিনতাইয়ের চেষ্টার অভিযোগ ওঠে তাদের বিরুদ্ধে।প্রত্যক্ষদর্শীদের দাবি, প্রথমে আতঙ্কিত হয়ে পড়লেও পরে বাসের যাত্রীরা একজোট হয়ে অভিযুক্তদের প্রতিরোধ করেন। পরিস্থিতি বেগতিক বুঝে দুই অভিযুক্ত পালিয়ে যেতে সক্ষম হলেও একজনকে যাত্রীরা ধরে ফেলেন। এরপর উত্তেজিত জনতার একাংশ ওই যুবককে মারধর করে বলে অভিযোগ।## পুলিশের হস্তক্ষেপঘটনার খবর পেয়ে দ্রুত ঘটনাস্থলে পৌঁছায় ব্যাটরা থানার পুলিশ। পুলিশ অভিযুক্ত যুবককে জনতার হাত থেকে উদ্ধার করে থানায় নিয়ে যায়। ঘটনার জেরে এলাকায় কিছু সময়ের জন্য উত্তেজনা তৈরি হয় এবং যান চলাচলেও সাময়িক প্রভাব পড়ে।পুলিশ সূত্রে জানা গেছে, ঘটনার তদন্ত শুরু হয়েছে। পলাতক দুই অভিযুক্তের খোঁজেও তল্লাশি চালানো হচ্ছে। বাসের চালক, কন্ডাক্টর এবং প্রত্যক্ষদর্শীদের বয়ান সংগ্রহ করা হচ্ছে।## তদন্তে জোরএই ঘটনায় হামলা, ভাঙচুর এবং ছিনতাইয়ের চেষ্টার অভিযোগে মামলা দায়েরের প্রক্রিয়া চলছে বলে পুলিশ সূত্রের খবর। তদন্তকারীরা আশপাশের সিসিটিভি ফুটেজ খতিয়ে দেখছেন এবং অভিযুক্তদের পরিচয় নিশ্চিত করার চেষ্টা করছেন।## এলাকায় চাঞ্চল্যদিনদুপুরে যাত্রীবোঝাই বাসে এমন ঘটনার জেরে এলাকায় আতঙ্ক ছড়িয়ে পড়ে। তবে যাত্রীদের দ্রুত প্রতিরোধের ফলে বড় ধরনের ছিনতাই বা আরও গুরুতর ক্ষয়ক্ষতি এড়ানো সম্ভব হয়েছে বলে স্থানীয়দের একাংশের দাবি।

by Editor - Bengal News Net 58 reads

কলকাতা Jul 28, 2026

রাজ্য পুলিশে ১ লক্ষ নিয়োগের ঘোষণা, রেশন ভাতা বৃদ্ধি, ভবানী ভবন থেকে একগুচ্ছ বড় সিদ্ধান্ত

**কলকাতা | নিজস্ব সংবাদদাতা**রাজ্যের আইন-শৃঙ্খলা ব্যবস্থা আরও শক্তিশালী করতে একাধিক গুরুত্বপূর্ণ সিদ্ধান্তের ঘোষণা করলেন মুখ্যমন্ত্রী শুভেন্দু অধিকারী। মঙ্গলবার কলকাতার ভবানী ভবনে আয়োজিত এক অনুষ্ঠানে তিনি জানান, আগামী কয়েক বছরে ধাপে ধাপে **১ লক্ষ নতুন পুলিশ কর্মী নিয়োগ** করা হবে। পাশাপাশি পুলিশ কর্মীদের **রেশন ভাতা ১,৫০০ টাকা থেকে বাড়িয়ে ২,০০০ টাকা** করা হয়েছে। নাগরিকদের অভিযোগ জানানোর জন্য চালু হয়েছে **চারটি নতুন টোল-ফ্রি হেল্পলাইন নম্বর**।## আগামী কয়েক বছরে ১ লক্ষ পুলিশ নিয়োগমুখ্যমন্ত্রী জানান, বর্তমানে রাজ্যে প্রতি এক লক্ষ জনসংখ্যার বিপরীতে পুলিশের সংখ্যা জাতীয় গড়ের তুলনায় কম। সেই ঘাটতি পূরণ করতেই ধাপে ধাপে ১ লক্ষ নতুন পুলিশ কর্মী নিয়োগের পরিকল্পনা নেওয়া হয়েছে।তিনি বলেন, বর্তমানে প্রায় **৪৭ হাজার শূন্যপদ** রয়েছে। এছাড়াও প্রশিক্ষণ সম্পন্ন করা **১৪ হাজার পুলিশ কনস্টেবলকে আসন্ন দুর্গাপূজোর আগেই বিভিন্ন দায়িত্বে নিয়োগ** দেওয়ার প্রস্তুতি সম্পূর্ণ হয়েছে।## বাড়ল পুলিশ কর্মীদের রেশন ভাতাপুলিশ কর্মীদের আর্থিক সুবিধা বৃদ্ধির লক্ষ্যে রেশন ভাতা **৫০০ টাকা বৃদ্ধি** করা হয়েছে। এতদিন মাসিক রেশন ভাতা ছিল **১,৫০০ টাকা**, যা এখন থেকে **২,০০০ টাকা** হবে। সরকারের মতে, এই সিদ্ধান্তে রাজ্যের হাজার হাজার পুলিশ কর্মী ও তাঁদের পরিবার উপকৃত হবেন।## চালু হল চারটি টোল-ফ্রি নম্বরসাধারণ মানুষের অভিযোগ দ্রুত নিষ্পত্তির জন্য রাজ্য সরকার চারটি নতুন টোল-ফ্রি নম্বর চালু করেছে।**টোল-ফ্রি নম্বরগুলি হল:*** 18003450166* 18003450167* 18003450168* 18003450169এই নম্বরগুলিতে ফোন করে রাজ্যের যে কোনও প্রান্তের মানুষ আইন-শৃঙ্খলা সংক্রান্ত অভিযোগ বা সমস্যার কথা জানাতে পারবেন। অভিযোগের দ্রুত নিষ্পত্তির আশ্বাস দিয়েছে সরকার।তবে মুখ্যমন্ত্রী স্পষ্ট জানিয়েছেন, এই পরিষেবার অপব্যবহার বা ভুয়ো তথ্য দিলে আইন অনুযায়ী কঠোর ব্যবস্থা নেওয়া হবে।## রাজ্যে গড়ে উঠবে SIAঅনুষ্ঠান থেকে মুখ্যমন্ত্রী আরও ঘোষণা করেন, জাতীয় তদন্তকারী সংস্থা (NIA)-এর আদলে পশ্চিমবঙ্গে **স্টেট ইনভেস্টিগেশন এজেন্সি (SIA)** গঠন করা হবে। গুরুতর ও সংগঠিত অপরাধের তদন্তে এই সংস্থা গুরুত্বপূর্ণ ভূমিকা পালন করবে বলে সরকারের আশা।## পুলিশের ভূয়সী প্রশংসাপুলিশ বাহিনীর কাজের প্রশংসা করে মুখ্যমন্ত্রী বলেন, রাজ্যের পুলিশ আইন মেনে দক্ষতার সঙ্গে দায়িত্ব পালন করছে এবং ভবিষ্যতেও সেই ধারা বজায় রাখতে হবে। তিনি পুলিশ কর্মীদের আশ্বস্ত করে বলেন, আইন মেনে দায়িত্ব পালন করলে সরকার তাঁদের পাশে থাকবে।

by Editor - Bengal News Net 73 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 28, 2026

বৃষ্টিতে ভেস্তে যাচ্ছে সমুদ্র-ছুটি, হোটেলবন্দি দিঘার পর্যটকেরা, কবে কাটবে অপেক্ষা?

**নিজস্ব প্রতিনিধি | পূর্ব মেদিনীপুর**বঙ্গোপসাগরে সৃষ্ট নিম্নচাপের জেরে টানা ভারী বৃষ্টিতে কার্যত থমকে গিয়েছে পূর্ব মেদিনীপুরের সমুদ্র পর্যটন। দিঘা, শঙ্করপুর, মন্দারমণি ও তাজপুরে বেড়াতে এসে অধিকাংশ পর্যটকই এখন হোটেলবন্দি। অবিরাম বৃষ্টি, দমকা হাওয়া এবং উত্তাল সমুদ্রের কারণে সৈকতে নামা তো দূরের কথা, হোটেল থেকে বের হওয়াও কঠিন হয়ে পড়েছে।আলিপুর আবহাওয়া দপ্তরের পূর্বাভাস অনুযায়ী, নিম্নচাপের প্রভাবে দক্ষিণবঙ্গের একাধিক জেলায় সোমবার সকাল থেকেই ভারী বৃষ্টি শুরু হয়েছে। তার সরাসরি প্রভাব পড়েছে উপকূলবর্তী পর্যটন কেন্দ্রগুলিতে। সমুদ্র উত্তাল থাকায় প্রশাসনের পক্ষ থেকে পর্যটকদের সমুদ্রে না নামার জন্য সতর্ক করা হয়েছে।## হোটেলবন্দি পর্যটকদের হতাশাবর্ষার এই দুর্যোগে পর্যটকদের বহু পরিকল্পনাই ভেস্তে গিয়েছে। সমুদ্রসৈকতে হাঁটাহাঁটি, সূর্যোদয় ও সূর্যাস্ত উপভোগ কিংবা স্থানীয় দর্শনীয় স্থান ঘোরা—সবই আপাতত বন্ধ। দিঘা, মন্দারমণি, তাজপুর ও শঙ্করপুরের অধিকাংশ পর্যটক দিন কাটাচ্ছেন হোটেলের ঘরেই।জলোচ্ছ্বাসের কারণে সমুদ্রের জল স্বাভাবিকের তুলনায় অনেকটা ভিতরে চলে এসেছে। ফলে সৈকতে দীর্ঘক্ষণ অবস্থান করাও নিরাপদ নয় বলে প্রশাসনের পক্ষ থেকে জানানো হয়েছে।## পর্যটন ব্যবসাতেও প্রভাববর্ষার এই প্রতিকূল আবহাওয়ার জেরে স্থানীয় পর্যটন ব্যবসায়ও প্রভাব পড়তে শুরু করেছে। সমুদ্রসৈকতে পর্যটকদের আনাগোনা কমে যাওয়ায় ছোট ব্যবসায়ী, খাবারের দোকান, বিচ-ভিত্তিক পরিষেবা এবং স্থানীয় পর্যটন নির্ভর ব্যবসাগুলির আয়ও কমেছে বলে জানা যাচ্ছে।## কবে স্বস্তি মিলবে?আবহাওয়া দপ্তরের পূর্বাভাসে কিছুটা আশার আলো দেখা গিয়েছে। বুধবার থেকে নিম্নচাপের প্রভাব ধীরে ধীরে কমতে পারে বলে জানানো হয়েছে। বৃষ্টির তীব্রতা কমলে উপকূলবর্তী এলাকাগুলির পরিস্থিতিও স্বাভাবিক হওয়ার সম্ভাবনা রয়েছে। সেই সঙ্গে পর্যটকেরা আবার সমুদ্রসৈকতে ঘুরে বেড়ানো এবং সমুদ্র উপভোগের সুযোগ পাবেন বলে আশা করা হচ্ছে।তবে প্রশাসনের পক্ষ থেকে আবহাওয়ার পরিস্থিতি সম্পূর্ণ স্বাভাবিক না হওয়া পর্যন্ত সতর্ক থাকার এবং সমুদ্রে না নামার পরামর্শ দেওয়া হয়েছে।

by Editor - Bengal News Net 60 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 27, 2026

মেদিনীপুরে বুলডোজার অভিযান, ফুটপাত দখল করে গড়ে ওঠা তৃণমূল পার্টি অফিস ভাঙল প্রশাসন

**পশ্চিম মেদিনীপুর:** মেদিনীপুর শহরে অবৈধ দখলদারদের বিরুদ্ধে প্রশাসনের অভিযান আরও জোরদার হলো। সোমবার শহরের এলআইসি মোড় এলাকায় ফুটপাত দখল করে গড়ে ওঠা একাধিক তৃণমূল কংগ্রেসের পার্টি অফিসে বুলডোজার চালায় রাজ্য সরকারের পূর্ত দপ্তর। প্রথম পর্যায়ে মোট ৬টি পার্টি অফিস ভেঙে ফেলা হয়েছে।জেলা প্রশাসনের পক্ষ থেকে জানানো হয়েছে, এটি শুধুমাত্র অভিযান শুরুর প্রথম ধাপ। আগামী দিনে শহরের বিভিন্ন প্রান্তে ফুটপাত ও সরকারি জমি দখল করে গড়ে ওঠা সমস্ত অবৈধ নির্মাণ চিহ্নিত করে পর্যায়ক্রমে উচ্ছেদ করা হবে। সরকারি জমি এবং ফুটপাত সাধারণ মানুষের ব্যবহারের জন্য সম্পূর্ণ দখলমুক্ত রাখাই এই অভিযানের মূল উদ্দেশ্য বলে প্রশাসন সূত্রে জানা গিয়েছে।অভিযান চলাকালীন এলাকায় মোতায়েন করা হয় পর্যাপ্ত পুলিশ বাহিনী, যাতে আইনশৃঙ্খলা পরিস্থিতির কোনও অবনতি না ঘটে। প্রশাসনের উপস্থিতিতেই বুলডোজার দিয়ে একের পর এক অবৈধ কাঠামো ভেঙে ফেলা হয়।অন্যদিকে, প্রশাসনের এই পদক্ষেপকে স্বাগত জানিয়েছেন স্থানীয় বাসিন্দাদের একাংশ। তাঁদের দাবি, দীর্ঘদিন ধরে ফুটপাত দখল হয়ে থাকায় সাধারণ পথচারীদের চলাচলে সমস্যা হচ্ছিল। দখলমুক্ত ফুটপাত হলে শহরের যান চলাচল এবং সাধারণ মানুষের চলাফেরা অনেকটাই সহজ হবে।প্রশাসনের স্পষ্ট বার্তা, কোনও ব্যক্তি, সংগঠন বা রাজনৈতিক পরিচয় নির্বিশেষে সরকারি জমি বা ফুটপাত দখল করে তৈরি হওয়া সমস্ত অবৈধ নির্মাণের বিরুদ্ধে একইভাবে ব্যবস্থা নেওয়া হবে।

by Editor - Bengal News Net 60 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 26, 2026

নবদ্বীপে রহস্যময় লাল ট্রলিব্যাগ ঘিরে বোমাতঙ্ক, খুলতেই মিলল জামাকাপড়

**নিজস্ব সংবাদদাতা | নদিয়া**নদিয়ার নবদ্বীপে একটি রহস্যময় লাল ট্রলিব্যাগকে কেন্দ্র করে সোমবার ব্যাপক চাঞ্চল্য ও আতঙ্কের সৃষ্টি হয়। নবদ্বীপ ধাম স্টেশন সংলগ্ন বিবেকানন্দ স্টেডিয়ামের পাশের একটি পুকুরপাড়ে পড়ে থাকা ট্রলিব্যাগটি ঘিরে স্থানীয়দের মধ্যে বোমাতঙ্ক ছড়িয়ে পড়ে। খবর পেয়ে দ্রুত ঘটনাস্থলে পৌঁছে ট্রলিব্যাগটি উদ্ধার করে নবদ্বীপ থানার পুলিশ।স্থানীয় সূত্রে জানা যায়, সকালে স্টেশন সংলগ্ন এলাকায় একটি লাল রঙের ট্রলিব্যাগ দীর্ঘক্ষণ ধরে পড়ে থাকতে দেখেন কয়েকজন বাসিন্দা। ব্যাগটির মালিকের কোনও খোঁজ না পাওয়ায় সন্দেহের সৃষ্টি হয়। এরপরই বিষয়টি জানানো হয় নবদ্বীপ থানায়।খবর পেয়ে পুলিশ ঘটনাস্থলে পৌঁছে নিরাপত্তা ব্যবস্থা গ্রহণ করে ট্রলিব্যাগটি পরীক্ষা করে। ব্যাগ খুলতেই জানা যায়, এর ভিতরে কোনও বিস্ফোরক নয়, বরং শুধুমাত্র জামাকাপড় রাখা ছিল। এরপর ট্রলিব্যাগটি থানায় নিয়ে গিয়ে তদন্ত শুরু করে পুলিশ।পুলিশ সূত্রে জানা গিয়েছে, কে বা কারা এবং কী উদ্দেশ্যে স্টেডিয়াম সংলগ্ন পুকুরপাড়ে জামাকাপড় ভর্তি ট্রলিব্যাগটি ফেলে রেখে গিয়েছে, তা এখনও স্পষ্ট নয়। বিষয়টি খতিয়ে দেখা হচ্ছে এবং ট্রলিব্যাগটির প্রকৃত মালিকের সন্ধানেও তদন্ত চলছে।এদিকে, পুলিশ ট্রলিব্যাগটি উদ্ধার করে পরীক্ষা করার পর স্বস্তির নিঃশ্বাস ফেলেন স্থানীয় বাসিন্দারা। যদিও বিস্ফোরকের আশঙ্কা সত্যি না হলেও, জনবহুল এলাকায় এভাবে পরিত্যক্ত ব্যাগ পড়ে থাকায় নিরাপত্তা নিয়ে নতুন করে প্রশ্ন উঠেছে।

by Editor - Bengal News Net 62 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 26, 2026

৩৯ মাস ধরে বিধবা ভাতা পাচ্ছেন জাহাঙ্গীর আলম, অপেক্ষায় রেহেনা বিবি! মুর্শিদাবাদের লালগোলায় চাঞ্চল্য

**নিজস্ব সংবাদদাতা | মুর্শিদাবাদ**সরকারি সামাজিক সুরক্ষা প্রকল্পে ফের বড়সড় অনিয়মের অভিযোগ। মুর্শিদাবাদের লালগোলা ব্লকের পণ্ডিতপুর বাগানপাড়া এলাকায় এক বিধবা মহিলার প্রাপ্য ভাতা দীর্ঘদিন ধরে অন্য এক ব্যক্তির ব্যাঙ্ক অ্যাকাউন্টে জমা হওয়ার অভিযোগ সামনে এসেছে। অভিযোগ ঘিরে এলাকায় তীব্র চাঞ্চল্যের সৃষ্টি হয়েছে।অভিযোগ অনুযায়ী, বছর পাঁচেক আগে স্বামীর মৃত্যু হয় স্থানীয় বাসিন্দা **রেহেনা বিবির**। পরিবার ও প্রতিবেশীদের দাবি, তিনি মানসিকভাবে অসুস্থ এবং কোনও উপার্জনের সুযোগ নেই। সরকারি বিধবা ভাতার জন্য আবেদন করার পর তাঁর নামে ভাতা অনুমোদিত হলেও সেই অর্থ তাঁর ব্যাঙ্ক অ্যাকাউন্টে পৌঁছায়নি।পরিবারের অভিযোগ, গত **৩৯ মাস ধরে** ওই ভাতার অর্থ একই এলাকার বাসিন্দা **জাহাঙ্গীর আলম** নামে এক ব্যক্তির ব্যাঙ্ক অ্যাকাউন্টে জমা হচ্ছে। ২০২৪ সালে বিষয়টি সামনে আসার পর থেকেই পরিবারের সদস্যরা বিডিও অফিস, প্রশাসন এবং পুলিশের দ্বারস্থ হয়েছেন। কিন্তু এখনও পর্যন্ত সমস্যার কোনও স্থায়ী সমাধান হয়নি বলে অভিযোগ।স্থানীয় বাসিন্দাদের বক্তব্য, প্রকৃত উপভোক্তা যখন আর্থিক অনটনের মধ্যে দিন কাটাচ্ছেন, তখন অন্য একজনের অ্যাকাউন্টে মাসের পর মাস সরকারি ভাতার টাকা চলে যাওয়া প্রশাসনিক গাফিলতি নাকি অন্য কোনও অনিয়ম—তা নিয়েই প্রশ্ন উঠছে।এলাকার বাসিন্দা **মুসাদুকুর আলম** জানান, প্রায় ছয় মাস পর বিষয়টি তাঁদের নজরে আসে। এরপর একাধিকবার বিডিও অফিসে গিয়ে অভিযোগ জানানো হলেও সমাধান হয়নি। থানায় অভিযোগ দায়ের করা হয়, এমনকি সালিশি বৈঠকের উদ্যোগও নেওয়া হয়েছিল। কিন্তু এত কিছুর পরও সমস্যার কোনও নিষ্পত্তি হয়নি বলে দাবি তাঁর।অন্যদিকে, এই অভিযোগের বিষয়ে **জাহাঙ্গীর আলমের** সঙ্গে যোগাযোগ করা হলে তিনি কোনও মন্তব্য করতে চাননি।এখন স্থানীয়দের দাবি, প্রশাসন দ্রুত ঘটনার নিরপেক্ষ তদন্ত করে প্রকৃত উপভোক্তার হাতে সরকারি ভাতার অর্থ পৌঁছে দিক এবং কীভাবে এত দীর্ঘ সময় ধরে এই অনিয়ম চলল, তারও পূর্ণাঙ্গ তদন্ত হোক।

by Editor - Bengal News Net 61 reads

জাতীয় Jul 26, 2026

কৃষ্ণসাগরে বাড়ছে ক্ষেপণাস্ত্র-ড্রোন হামলা, ভারতীয় নাবিকদের জন্য নিরাপত্তা সতর্কতা জারি কেন্দ্রের

**নিজস্ব সংবাদদাতা:** কৃষ্ণসাগর (Black Sea) ও সংলগ্ন সমুদ্রপথে চলাচলকারী বাণিজ্যিক জাহাজে কর্মরত ভারতীয় নাবিকদের জন্য বিশেষ নিরাপত্তা সতর্কতা জারি করেছে ভারত সরকার। চলমান সংঘাতের জেরে ওই অঞ্চলের নিরাপত্তা পরিস্থিতি অত্যন্ত উদ্বেগজনক হয়ে উঠেছে বলে সরকারি অ্যাডভাইজরিতে উল্লেখ করা হয়েছে।সরকার জানিয়েছে, কৃষ্ণসাগর এবং আশপাশের জলসীমায় চলাচলকারী বাণিজ্যিক জাহাজগুলি বর্তমানে ক্ষেপণাস্ত্র ও ড্রোন হামলাসহ একাধিক গুরুতর নিরাপত্তা ঝুঁকির মুখোমুখি হচ্ছে। বিশেষ করে ২০২৬ সালের এপ্রিল মাস থেকে এই অঞ্চলে হামলার ঘটনা উল্লেখযোগ্যভাবে বেড়েছে। সরকারি তথ্য অনুযায়ী, এই সময়ের মধ্যে সংঘটিত হামলায় ইতিমধ্যেই পাঁচজন ভারতীয় নাগরিক প্রাণ হারিয়েছেন।এই পরিস্থিতিতে সংঘাতপূর্ণ সমুদ্রপথে চলাচলকারী জাহাজে চাকরি গ্রহণের আগে নিরাপত্তা পরিস্থিতি ভালোভাবে মূল্যায়ন করার পরামর্শ দিয়েছে কেন্দ্র। একই সঙ্গে যাঁরা ওই ধরনের জাহাজে কর্মরত রয়েছেন বা নতুন করে যোগ দিতে চান, তাঁদের সর্বোচ্চ সতর্কতা অবলম্বনের নির্দেশ দেওয়া হয়েছে।অ্যাডভাইজরিতে নাবিকদের চাকরি দেওয়া সংস্থা, নিয়োগকারী এজেন্সি এবং জাহাজ পরিচালনাকারী প্রতিষ্ঠানের কাছ থেকে জাহাজের নির্ধারিত রুট, সম্ভাব্য নোঙর করার স্থান, নিরাপত্তা ব্যবস্থা, বিমার আওতা এবং জরুরি পরিস্থিতিতে করণীয় সম্পর্কে বিস্তারিত তথ্য সংগ্রহ করার পরামর্শ দেওয়া হয়েছে।এছাড়াও আন্তর্জাতিক সামুদ্রিক মানদণ্ড অনুযায়ী চাকরির শর্তাবলি রয়েছে কি না, তা নিশ্চিত করার নির্দেশ দেওয়া হয়েছে। জরুরি অবস্থায় চিকিৎসা পরিষেবা, নিরাপদে সরিয়ে আনা (ইভাকুয়েশন), দেশে প্রত্যাবর্তন এবং ক্ষতিপূরণের যথাযথ ব্যবস্থা রয়েছে কি না, সেটিও যাচাই করতে বলা হয়েছে।সরকার নাবিকদের পরিবারের সঙ্গে নিয়মিত যোগাযোগ বজায় রাখতে এবং নিজের যাত্রাপথ সম্পর্কে পরিবারকে অবহিত রাখার পরামর্শ দিয়েছে। পাশাপাশি ডিরেক্টরেট জেনারেল অফ মেরিটাইম অ্যাডমিনিস্ট্রেশন (DGMA), ভারত সরকারের সংশ্লিষ্ট কর্তৃপক্ষ, জাহাজ পরিচালনাকারী সংস্থা এবং আন্তর্জাতিক সামুদ্রিক নিরাপত্তা সংস্থাগুলির জারি করা নির্দেশিকা নিয়মিত অনুসরণ করার আহ্বান জানানো হয়েছে।বিশেষভাবে ২০২৬ সালের ২৩ জুলাই বন্দর, জাহাজ চলাচল ও জলপথ মন্ত্রকের অধীন ডিরেক্টরেট জেনারেল অফ মেরিটাইম অ্যাডমিনিস্ট্রেশন কর্তৃক জারি করা সর্বশেষ নিরাপত্তা নির্দেশিকা মেনে চলার ওপর গুরুত্ব আরোপ করা হয়েছে।কোনও জরুরি কনস্যুলার সহায়তার প্রয়োজন হলে ভারতীয় নাগরিকদের রাশিয়া ও ইউক্রেনে অবস্থিত ভারতীয় দূতাবাসের সঙ্গে দ্রুত যোগাযোগ করার পরামর্শ দিয়েছে কেন্দ্র। সরকারের মতে, সংঘাতপূর্ণ অঞ্চলে কর্মরত ভারতীয় নাবিকদের নিরাপত্তা নিশ্চিত করাই এই সতর্কতা জারির মূল উদ্দেশ্য।

by Editor - Bengal News Net 66 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 24, 2026

Emphasis on the Development of Small and Micro Industries in Murshidabad, Industrial Conference by Laghu Udyog Bharti in Baharampur

**Baharampur, Murshidabad:** An industrial conference was organized by **Laghu Udyog Bharti** on Friday at Rabindra Sadan in Baharampur to promote small and micro industries in the district, explore new investment opportunities, and increase employment. Various dignitaries, industrialists, and representatives of organizations were present at this conference aimed at further enhancing industrial development in the district.Present at the conference were **Swami Bishwomoyananda Maharaj, Secretary of Sargachi Ramakrishna Mission**, **MLA Subrata Mitra**, **Observer of Laghu Udyog Bharti Saroj Kumar Sau**, along with other officials and members of the organization.Speakers at the event discussed in detail the potential of agriculture-based industries, food processing, handicrafts, cottage industries, and other small and medium enterprises in Murshidabad district. There was also an exchange of ideas on how to establish new industries and attract investments by utilizing the district's natural resources, agricultural production, and local skilled workforce.In the speakers' remarks, it was highlighted that the development of small and micro industries would strengthen the district's economy and create new employment opportunities for local youth. Additionally, discussions were held regarding various government schemes, financial assistance, and training-related facilities for industrialists.According to the organizers, such industrial conferences will enhance mutual communication among entrepreneurs and create a positive environment for establishing new industries in Murshidabad district in the future.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 103 reads

কলকাতা Jul 24, 2026

Tension in Kolkata's NEET Scam Protest March, Clash with Police at Dorina Crossing

**Kolkata:** Tension reached a peak on Friday in Kolkata's streets in protest against the NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) scam. The protest march called by leftist student organizations turned heated near Dorina Crossing as it advanced towards Dharmatala.As the march proceeded towards Dharmatala, a clash broke out when police attempted to stop the protesters. In moments, Dorina Crossing and the Dharmatala area became tense. Additional police forces were deployed at the scene, and security measures were intensified to control the situation.## What Happened?According to eyewitnesses, the protesters attempted to break through barricades, and police obstructed them. This led to pushing and protests. For a while, traffic in the area adjacent to Dharmatala was also affected.The protesters alleged that the police unnecessarily obstructed a peaceful democratic movement. On the other hand, police sources claimed that necessary measures were taken to maintain law and order.## Why This Movement?Leftist student organizations called this march in protest against the irregularities and question paper leaks surrounding the NEET examination. The protesters demanded an impartial investigation into the entire incident, strict action against the culprits, and ensuring transparency in the examination process.## Enhanced SecurityAfter the incident, additional police were deployed in Dharmatala, Dorina Crossing, and surrounding areas. While the situation is currently under control, security measures in the area remain strict. The administration has urged citizens not to pay heed to unnecessary rumors.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 63 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 24, 2026

Gobindpur Level Crossing to be Completely Closed! Construction of Underpass to Start Once State Approval is Received

**Staff Correspondent:** After the horrific train accident in Gobindpur, the Eastern Railway has made a significant decision. To ensure the safety of passengers and pedestrians, the **24A/2 Level Crossing** in Gobindpur will be completely closed, and a modern underpass is planned to be constructed there. However, the project requires a **‘No Objection Certificate’ (NOC)** from the West Bengal government to commence work. The railway authorities have stated that construction will begin promptly once the state gives the green signal and the budget is approved.## Railways Act Quickly After the AccidentOn **July 17**, while crossing the Gobindpur railway gate between Khagraghat and Kornsuvorn railway stations, a school van was hit by a train and was thrown off. In this horrific accident, **four students and one cyclist lost their lives**. Four others were seriously injured. Following this tragic incident, questions began to arise regarding the safety of the level crossing.Afterward, Chief Minister **Shuvendu Adhikari** visited the families of the deceased. He assured that if necessary, he would discuss with the railway minister to prevent such accidents in the future. This led to a swift advancement in the plan for the underpass construction.## Formal Proposal to the StateAccording to sources from the Howrah Division of Eastern Railway, a formal proposal for the construction of an underpass in Gobindpur was sent to the West Bengal government on **July 20**. The Chief Public Relations Officer of Eastern Railway, **Shivram Majhi**, stated that once the state government issues the NOC, the budget will be finalized, and work will commence swiftly.## What Will the Underpass Be Like?Railway sources have indicated that the proposed underpass will be—* **Width:** 6 meters* **Height:** 3 meters* **Estimated Cost:** Approximately 30 to 40 crore rupeesDue to the presence of double railway lines, the construction cost is expected to be relatively higher, according to railway authorities.## Subway Plan for Three Railway GatesAccording to the long-standing plan of the railway, there was an initiative to remove three level crossings on the Kornsuvorn branch and construct subways there. However, due to local objections, the previous project was stalled. Now, after the tragic accident in Gobindpur, that project has gained momentum again.According to the railway's plan, if the state government approves, the work on the **three proposed subways, including Gobindpur, will be completed simultaneously.**## Safety is Now the Main GoalAccording to railway authorities, constructing an underpass instead of a level crossing will ensure safe passage for vehicles and pedestrians, significantly reducing the risk of such accidents in the future. The focus is now on obtaining approval from the state government. Once the NOC is received, there is a possibility that the long-awaited project will commence.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 65 reads

ধর্ম ও সংস্কৃতি Jul 24, 2026

After Puri and Mahesh, it’s Mahishadal—Jagannath Dev and Gopalji return home on the reverse chariot

**Special Correspondent, Mahishadal:**After the Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri and the Rath in Mahesh, the Rath of Mahishadal in East Medinipur is known as one of Bengal's most traditional chariots. Every year, a flood of devotees gathers around this Rath Yatra, which carries a legacy of nearly two and a half centuries.History states that this massive wooden chariot was built in 1776 under the initiative of Queen Janki Devi of Mahishadal. This chariot, with 13 spires, stands about 70 feet tall, making it one of the tallest wooden chariots in India. Lord Jagannath and Lord Madan Gopal reside in this chariot.Today was the day of the reverse chariot. After a few days of visiting their maternal uncle's house, Lord Jagannath and Madan Gopal returned to their own temple. From morning, religious rituals, special prayers, and the offering of food were completed before the deities were placed in the chariot.According to tradition, first, the current members of the Mahishadal royal family pull the ropes of the chariot. Then thousands of devotees together pull the chariot along the designated path. The entire Mahishadal resonates with the devotees' chants of 'Jai Jagannath' and 'Harinam'. There was tight security on both sides of the chariot and special monitoring by the administration.As every year, this time too, numerous visitors and devotees from various parts of the state gathered in Mahishadal to witness this historic reverse chariot festival. The confluence of religious emotion, tradition, and devotion has made the reverse chariot festival of Mahishadal one of the main attractions of East Medinipur.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 74 reads

জাতীয় Jul 24, 2026

Sonam Wangchuk Ends 26-Day Hunger Strike, Withdraws Amid Central Government Assurances, But Movement Continues

Exclusive Report:After nearly a month of continuous hunger strike, social activist Sonam Wangchuk has finally suspended his movement. His hunger strike, which began on June 28, demanding the leak of the NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) question paper and reforms in the country's education system, ended after 26 days based on multiple assurances from the central government.Late Thursday night, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda and Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh met Wangchuk at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram. It was in their presence that Wangchuk broke his fast by having soup. His wife, Geetanjali Angmo, was also present at that time.What assurances did the government provide?It is reported that Wangchuk was given a written assurance from the government. This mainly mentions three important points—A positive stance on not filing cases against the protesters, especially considering the legal actions against those participating in the protests at Jantar Mantar and the Parliament march on July 20.A detailed discussion in Parliament regarding the NEET question paper leak and education reforms. The government has assured extensive discussions on the matter.Consideration of compensation for the families of students who committed suicide due to the NEET scandal.Following these assurances, Sonam Wangchuk decided to withdraw his hunger strike. He stated that this decision was made in the larger interest of the country and after prolonged discussions. He also urged his supporters to continue the movement peacefully and appealed to stay away from any form of violence.How did this movement start?Outraged by the NEET question paper leak, Sonam Wangchuk began an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in Delhi on June 28 in support of the protesting students. The main demands of the movement included—Transparency and reforms in the education system,Strict laws to prevent question paper leaks,Swift action against the guilty,And a demand for the resignation of the Union Education Minister.After multiple rounds of discussions with the government, Wangchuk stated that he would agree to withdraw his hunger strike if he received assurances of discussion in Parliament and no legal action against the protesters.Hunger strike over, but not the movementAlthough Wangchuk broke his fast, the associated organization has not stepped back from the movement. The organization has stated that peaceful sit-ins and protests will continue at Jantar Mantar until the reforms in the education system and other core demands are met.The leadership of the organization has also stated that Wangchuk's long hunger strike has brought the issues of the country's education system back into national discussion. However, the future of the movement will depend on how effective the government's assurances are in reality.Where is the focus now?Even though the 26-day hunger strike has ended, the issues of the NEET question paper leak, education reforms, and the demands of the protesters have not been fully addressed. Therefore, everyone’s attention will be on how much the central government implements the assurances given in Parliament and what steps are taken for reforms in the education system.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 64 reads

কলকাতা Jul 23, 2026

Seventh Pay Commission to Submit Report in 6 Months, When Will Salaries Increase? Know the State Government's Plan

**Kolkata:** The state government has made a major announcement for state government employees. After the increase in Dearness Allowance (DA), the **Seventh Pay Commission** has now been officially constituted. This decision by the government has rekindled hope among millions of state government employees and pensioners. The finance department has already published a notification for the formation of the commission.Earlier, Chief Minister **Shuvendu Adhikari** had stated that the government is moving forward with the goal of implementing the recommendations of the Seventh Pay Commission within the current financial year. The formation of this commission is an important step towards achieving that goal.## Four-Member High-Level Expert CommitteeThe Governor **R N Ravi** has approved the formation of the commission. The commission consists of a four-member expert committee.The committee members are—* **Chairman:** Retired IAS **Atanu Chakraborty**, former Secretary of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, Government of India.* **Member:** Dr. **Partha Mukhopadhyay**, Senior Researcher at the Centre for Policy Research.* **Member:** Dr. **Partha Pratim Pal**, Professor of Economics at IIM Kolkata.* **Member-Secretary:** IAS **Debi Prasad Karanam**, Secretary of the Finance Department, Government of West Bengal.## What Issues Will the Commission Review?According to the government notification, the commission will review the current **salary structure, Dearness Allowance (DA), various special allowances, travel allowances, promotion policies, pensions, and other financial benefits** for state government employees in detail.Additionally, the commission will be responsible for—* Reviewing the salary structure of government employees, board, and corporation staff.* Recommending necessary changes after examining the current salaries and allowances.* Proposing measures to improve work-life balance.* Recommending methods for determining the initial salaries of employees in the new salary structure.* Providing opinions on the process of pension revision for pensioners.## Report to be Submitted Within Six MonthsThe government has directed the commission to submit the **final report within six months**. While preparing the recommendations, the commission can also consider the **salary structure of the central government, recommendations of pay commissions from other states, the financial capacity of the state, income-expenditure situation, and the recommendations of the Eighth Central Pay Commission**.## When Can the Increased Salary Be Effective?The commission has now been formed and is expected to submit the report within the next **six months**. After that, if the state government reviews and approves the commission's recommendations, the new salary structure will come into effect. Therefore, **when the increased salary will be effective will depend on the commission's report and the government's final decision.** Although the government aims to implement the new salary structure within the current financial year, the official implementation schedule has not yet been announced.Government employees are now looking forward to the commission's recommendations and the government's subsequent decisions.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 66 reads

কলকাতা Jul 23, 2026

Heavy Rain Warning in Four Districts of South Bengal on Friday, Forecast of Strong Winds in Kolkata

**Kolkata:** The monsoon's impact in South Bengal is still ongoing. Like the past few days, there is a possibility of rain along with thunderstorms in almost all districts of South Bengal, including Kolkata, on Friday. The weather department has issued a **yellow alert** for all districts of South Bengal. In particular, **heavy rain (7 to 11 centimeters)** has been forecasted for **South 24 Parganas, East Medinipur, West Medinipur, and Jhargram** districts.According to the weather department, the **monsoon trough currently extends from Jaisalmer to Kathi over the northeastern Bay of Bengal.** This weather situation has created a favorable environment for rain across South Bengal.In the remaining districts of South Bengal, including Kolkata, there may be light to moderate rain along with **strong winds blowing at a speed of 30 to 40 kilometers per hour.** However, currently, there is **no special alert issued for fishermen going to sea.**The weather department has stated that **the intensity of storms and rains in South Bengal may decrease somewhat from Saturday.** Although scattered rain will continue, there is currently no situation warranting a warning. However, there is a possibility of heavy rain again in **four districts of South Bengal on Wednesday.**On the other hand, **although there is no possibility of heavy rain in North Bengal on Friday,** a yellow alert has been issued for rain with thunderstorms. However, **heavy rain may return to several districts of North Bengal from Monday.**In particular, **Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Kalimpong** may experience intermittent heavy rain until next Thursday. In other districts of North Bengal, scattered rain will continue, although there is currently no need for a major warning there.The weather department advises that it is safe to avoid open spaces during thunderstorms and strong winds and to follow necessary precautions.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 70 reads

কলকাতা Jul 22, 2026

Smart Meters Not Mandatory, Chief Minister Shuvendu Adhikari Announces in Assembly

Kolkata: The Chief Minister Shuvendu Adhikari made it clear in the assembly that smart meters will not be made mandatory for household consumers in the state. In his response to the budget on Wednesday, he stated that smart meters will not be forcibly imposed on the general public, and the central government's policy on this matter is also not mandatory.The Chief Minister informed that under the directive of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian government has not made the installation of smart meters mandatory for domestic or household purposes. Therefore, no decision will be taken against the will of the general consumers. He said, “The government works prioritizing the interests of the people. No project will be implemented without the necessary infrastructure.”Referring to the protests by leftist parties and the SUCI against smart meters, the Chief Minister sarcastically remarked, “There will no longer be an opportunity for rallies. After this announcement that smart meters are not mandatory, the basis of many protests will be shaken.”While addressing the assembly, he also issued a warning to the leftists, referring to them as the 'Jadavpur Party'. The Chief Minister said, “Jadavpur Party, be a little cautious. I am keeping an eye on everything. This is not a weak government, but a strong government.”Not only regarding smart meters, the Chief Minister also made several important announcements for farmers. He mentioned that under the 'PM KUSUM' scheme, farmers will receive an additional subsidy of 2 rupees per unit of electricity for using solar energy in irrigation. This is expected to increase the use of renewable energy in agriculture.Additionally, he announced plans to establish a 1,000 megawatt power storage project in the DVC-Panchayet area. The Chief Minister also declared that work on setting up a new unit at the Bakreshwar thermal power station in Birbhum will begin.To promote development in border areas, he mentioned that the state's electricity department is participating in the central government's 'Vibrant Village' project. An additional allocation of 150 crore rupees has been announced for the implementation of this project.The Chief Minister's announcements are being viewed as significant steps in the state's electricity service, agricultural development, and infrastructure expansion. Especially, with the government's position being clarified amidst the long-standing debate on smart meters, it is believed that this may bring relief to general consumers.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 63 reads

কলকাতা Jul 22, 2026

‘PM Surya Ghar’ project launched in Bengal, state government aims to provide solar power to 500,000 homes

**Kolkata, July 22:** The central government’s ‘PM Surya Ghar: Free Electricity Scheme’ has been officially launched in West Bengal. Chief Minister Shuvendu Adhikari inaugurated the project on Tuesday. Through this project, common people are being given the opportunity to install solar power (rooftop solar) systems on their rooftops with the help of subsidies, which the government claims will significantly reduce electricity bills.The Chief Minister stated that it is possible to set up a household solar power system at a cost of about one and a half lakh rupees. The central government will provide a subsidy of up to 78,000 rupees. As a result, the consumers' out-of-pocket expenses will be significantly reduced, and there is a possibility that electricity bills will come down to nearly zero in the long term.According to government sources, rooftop solar systems have been launched in the homes of 1,810 families in the first phase of the project. At the same time, the state government has announced additional financial assistance for Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) consumers.## Goal to install solar panels in 500,000 homesThe Chief Minister said that the central government has set a target of implementing this project in 100,000 families during the current financial year. However, the state government has bigger plans.He stated, **“By March next year, we want solar panels to be installed in at least 500,000 homes in the state.”**During the inauguration ceremony of the project, the Chief Minister also spoke with several consumers virtually. One resident from Birbhum mentioned that previously his electricity bill was about 10,000 rupees every three months. After the solar power system was installed, that bill has come down to around 700 rupees.## How much subsidy will be available?The subsidy structure from the central government under the project is as follows:* **Up to 100 units capacity:** 30,000 rupees subsidy* **Up to 200 units capacity:** 60,000 rupees subsidy* **Up to 300 units capacity:** 78,000 rupees subsidyAdditionally, for Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe families, an extra **5,000 rupees** assistance will be provided at each level. Thus, a maximum of **15,000 rupees additional subsidy** can be obtained.The state government has stated that in the future, consideration is being given to bringing other financially weaker classes of families under the additional assistance of this project.## How to apply?To apply for the ‘PM Surya Ghar’ project, one must go to the government portal and apply online.For application visit: https://pmsuryaghar.gov.inThere, one must go to the ‘Consumer Login’ option and click on ‘Apply Now’. Registration can be completed by verifying the mobile number and OTP, and the application form can be submitted.## Which district has the most consumers?According to the data from the first phase, the most families have come under this project—* **North 24 Parganas:** 238 families* **Hooghly:** 232 familiesThe state government claims that the project will be expanded at a faster pace in the coming months.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 79 reads

বিনোদন Jul 22, 2026

'Delete all my songs, but my opinion won't change' — Arijit Singh stands firm in response to critics on student movement issue

**Entertainment Desk |** After publicly supporting the student movement, popular singer Arijit Singh has faced both praise and criticism on social media. However, he has not budged an inch from his stance in response to the criticism. Instead, he has clearly stated that even if someone stops listening to his songs or deletes all his songs from their playlist, there will be no change in his opinion.Recently, following the excitement surrounding the student movement in the capital, Arijit Singh made a post on his social media account. In it, he strongly criticized the allegations of police brutality against students. He also wrote, “Change is the only constant,” which quickly became a topic of discussion on social media.While many fans praised Arijit's courageous stance, some fans expressed strong objections. One of them commented that he was disappointed with Arijit's statement and had lost long-standing respect for him. That person even wrote that he now hates the singer.In response, Arijit reacted in a very restrained and polite manner. He stated that it is not possible to please everyone as an artist and that everyone has the right to their own opinion.According to Arijit, “I am not concerned about what others think. Because every person can have a different opinion. Just because you are my fan, there is no obligation for me to speak according to your wishes.”However, he also expressed regret. He stated, “As a human being, I apologize to you if my words have hurt your feelings. My intention is not to hurt anyone. But I am upset about the matter and have expressed my opinion freely.”His last comment has garnered the most attention. Addressing the critic, Arijit wrote, “You can delete all my songs from your playlist if you want. You can even forget my existence. Stay happy. But there will be no change in my opinion.”Arijit's response has sparked widespread reactions on social media. Many have praised his candor and his mindset to maintain his position despite differing opinions. On the other hand, some critics believe that popular artists should be more cautious when commenting on political or social issues.The comments made by Arijit Singh in this debate surrounding the student movement have reignited discussions. However, one thing is clear—this immensely popular singer is unwilling to compromise on his beliefs and opinions.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 83 reads

কলকাতা Jul 22, 2026

CAG report on Amphan corruption to be presented in the Assembly on Saturday, former Chief Minister will not be spared if proven guilty: Suvendu Adhikari

**Kolkata, July 22:** The state government has indicated a significant step in the Amphan corruption case. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has announced that the CAG (Comptroller and Auditor General of India) report related to Amphan will be presented in the Assembly on July 25. He stated that if evidence of corruption is found in the report, legal action will be taken against the former Chief Minister, ministers, or any influential leaders.While addressing the Assembly on Wednesday, the Chief Minister alleged that the previous government did not fulfill the constitutional and institutional obligation to present the CAG report in the Assembly and discuss it. He claimed that the report had been withheld for a long time.Suvendu Adhikari said, “It was mandatory to present the CAG reports in this House and discuss them. The previous government did not do that. The reports will be presented on July 25. A detailed discussion on the reports will take place in the next session, and decisions will be made based on the recommendations therein.”He further stated that wherever evidence of corruption is found in the report, recommendations will be made to file FIRs against the accused. The Chief Minister also mentioned that a formal recommendation will be sent to the Governor regarding this matter.In his speech in the Assembly, Suvendu clearly stated, “Whether he is the Chief Minister, a minister, or any big leader, if evidence of corruption is found, we will recommend to the Governor to file an FIR against him.”This announcement is being considered highly significant in political circles. This is because allegations of widespread irregularities and corruption in the relief and rehabilitation projects after Cyclone Amphan have long been at the center of political debate. The opposition has repeatedly alleged that many ineligible individuals received government benefits instead of the actual victims.Now, with the release of the CAG report, a government audit-based assessment of those allegations is about to come to light. Political circles and the general public are keenly observing what information the report reveals and what steps the government will take based on it.After the report is presented in the Assembly on July 25, there is a possibility of renewed political debate on the issue. Observers believe that this could also open the way for administrative and legal actions against those accused of corruption.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 70 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 22, 2026

Former Goyeshpur Gram Panchayat Head Shyamal Ghosh Arrested for Taking Money in Bengal Housing Scheme and Threatening to Kill

**Nadia, July 22:** Former Goyeshpur Gram Panchayat head Shyamal Ghosh has been arrested shortly after resigning from his position. He was arrested by the police of Shantipur police station based on allegations of taking money under the Bengal Housing Scheme in exchange for providing homes, threatening when the money was demanded back, and instilling fear of death.The complainant, Nirmal Mondal, who is a person with disabilities, claimed that Shyamal Ghosh took 30,000 rupees from him under the promise of providing a house through the Bengal Housing Scheme. According to the allegations, Shyamal Ghosh himself went to Nirmal Mondal's house to collect the money.Nirmal Mondal alleged that later, due to a change in the political situation, it became impossible to provide a house through the scheme, so he went to ask for his money back. At that time, he was verbally threatened. Moreover, he alleged that he was threatened with death by showing various types of weapons.Additionally, according to local residents, Shyamal Ghosh's son, Shobhan Ghosh, also exerted pressure on the complainant. He was threatened not to go to the police station to file a complaint, and it was also claimed that he was threatened with death if he did so.Based on multiple allegations, Nirmal Mondal filed a written complaint at Shantipur police station on July 20. The police began an investigation into the complaint. Subsequently, on the night of July 22, Shyamal Ghosh was arrested from the Goyeshpur area.According to police sources, the accused Shobhan Ghosh is currently absconding. A search is being conducted for him. Investigators believe that more information is needed regarding the reasons behind the incident and the role of the absconding accused.For this reason, Shyamal Ghosh has been presented in the Ranaghat sub-divisional court with a request for seven days of police custody. The police are awaiting the court's order.The incident has caused widespread excitement in the Goyeshpur area. A section of the locals has demanded an impartial investigation into the incident and strict action against the accused.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 59 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 22, 2026

Attempt to Enter Crematorium with Grandmother's Corpse! Grandson Burned, Shock in Navadvipa

**Navadvipa, Nadia:** The Navadvipa Mahashmashan witnessed a heartbreaking and shocking incident. Unable to accept his grandmother's death, a young man attempted to enter the electric crematorium with her corpse. He was rescued in a severely burned condition and admitted to the hospital.The incident occurred late Monday night. It is reported that the corpse of an elderly woman was brought to the Navadvipa Mahashmashan for cremation from the Gede border area. After all the formalities were completed, preparations were underway to place the corpse in the electric crematorium. Family members were present to bid farewell to their loved one for the last time. Amidst the grieving atmosphere, the sounds of 'Haribol' and cries were resonating.Eyewitnesses claim that as soon as the door of the crematorium was opened and the trolley carrying the corpse began to enter, a young man in his thirties suddenly jumped onto the trolley. It was later revealed that he was Indrajit Biswas, the grandson of the deceased elderly woman. In a moment, he also attempted to enter the crematorium along with the trolley.The intense heat and flames from the crematorium scorched various parts of the young man's face and body. People present at the scene quickly understood the situation and pulled him out. He was then rushed to the Navadvipa State General Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.This incident caused widespread shock in the crematorium premises. Speculation has begun regarding why the young man took such an extreme step. Some eyewitnesses claim that he was inebriated at the time of the incident. However, family members have denied that allegation. They claim that Indrajit has been suffering from mental health issues for a long time and may have behaved this way due to being unable to cope with his grandmother's death.The true cause of the incident is being investigated. However, alongside the grieving family, the eyewitnesses present have also become anxious.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 375 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 21, 2026

Not Tarakeshwar, Devotees Flock to Shibdangi Temple in Malda! ‘Height of the Shiva Lingam is Increasing’ Belief Draws Crowds to Pour Water in Shravan

**Malda:** The month of Shravan means worship of Mahadev. Devotees from various parts of West Bengal visit Tarakeshwar Dham during this time to perform water offerings. However, the Shibdangi Temple in the Nalagola area of Bamangola block in Malda district also becomes one of the major attractions for devotees during the month of Shravan.This ancient Shiva temple, located about 65 kilometers from Malda city, is surrounded by a massive banyan tree that is over 500 years old. Locals believe that the ancient Shiva Lingam entwined with the banyan tree is gradually increasing in size. Although devotees gather throughout the year based on this belief, the crowd significantly increases during the month of Shravan.On the first Monday of the month of Shravan, long lines of devotees can be seen at the Shibdangi Temple from early morning. Thousands of devotees pour water over Mahadev's head and offer prayers. Many come from far and wide to fulfill their vows and pray for the happiness, peace, and prosperity of their families.On this day, a devotee was seen walking nearly two kilometers to reach the temple to fulfill a vow. Lying on a long iron-spiked plank, his rigorous penance attracted the attention of many people. The devotion and faith of the devotee drew a crowd in the temple courtyard.The temple committee and various volunteer organizations have made arrangements for drinking water, medical assistance, and maintaining order for the convenience of the devotees. Additionally, a sufficient police force has been deployed by the Bamangola police station to ensure the safety of the devotees.According to local residents, the Shibdangi Temple is not just a religious place; it is a center of tradition and belief in the area. For many years, devotees have come here to pray for the fulfillment of their wishes. During the month of Shravan, thousands of people gather at this ancient pilgrimage site due to that belief.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 69 reads

কলকাতা Jul 21, 2026

'Where Mamata is, the people are'— Abhishek's controversial remarks from the Martyrs' Day stage

**Kolkata, July 21:**On the occasion of Martyrs' Day, Abhishek Banerjee, the All India General Secretary of the Trinamool Congress and MP from Diamond Harbour, made some remarks from the stage near Taratala in Kolkata that have sparked new controversy in political circles.While addressing the gathering, Abhishek Banerjee claimed that multiple false cases are being filed against the leaders and workers of the Trinamool Congress. In this context, he stated that those who are filing cases for political purposes will be answered in the future “with interest.” He remarked, “If false cases are filed, note it down in the diary, we will return it with interest. We will respond in the language that they understand.”## Criticism of Ritabrata Banerjee's meetingOn the same day, Abhishek was also seen mocking another political rally held in another part of Kolkata. Without naming anyone, he said that those who claim to be Trinamool have very few people attending their meeting. He claimed, “The number of people on Mayo Road is more than that in any village area when JCB is digging the soil.”He then said, “Where are the workers, where are the people? Where Mamata is, the people are there. The name of the roots of Trinamool is Mamata Banerjee.”## Trinamool MP speaks out against BJPFrom the meeting, Abhishek Banerjee also launched a fierce attack on the BJP. He alleged that investigative agencies are being used against Trinamool leaders and workers due to political vendetta.He claimed that multiple cases have been filed against him through various agencies including the ED, CBI, and the Income Tax Department. However, he stated that he will not deviate from the party's ideals despite all this.## New controversy in political circlesAbhishek Banerjee's remarks about “returning with interest” and “responding in the language they understand” have already begun to elicit various reactions in political circles. Some in the opposition claim that such remarks could further escalate political tensions. On the other hand, Trinamool supporters believe that Abhishek has sent a message to boost the morale of party workers.It is worth mentioning that there had been controversies over several of Abhishek Banerjee's remarks during the election campaign earlier. In this atmosphere, his recent statements from the Martyrs' Day stage have once again become the center of political discussion.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 73 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 21, 2026

Murshidabad Rail Accident: 'The Signal Was Red, I Had No Information About a Train Coming on the Down Line' - Claims Arrested Gatekeeper

**Murshidabad:** A new twist has emerged in the horrific rail accident between Karnasubarna and Gobindpur stations in Murshidabad. Anup Karmakar, the gatekeeper arrested in the incident, has denied the allegations against him from his hospital bed, claiming that he was not given any information about a train coming on the down line and that the relevant signal was also red.On Friday morning, a school van was struck by a passenger train while crossing the Karnasubarna-Gobindpur rail gate. Four children tragically lost their lives in the accident, along with a cyclist. Several others were injured. Following the incident, there was intense agitation in the area, and a heated debate began over who was responsible for the accident.## What Does the Gatekeeper Claim?Currently receiving treatment in the hospital after his arrest, Anup Karmakar stated that he has information about the train movements on both the up and down lines as per daily routine. He claims that the station master had called him before the departure of the Up line's Nabadvip Express, based on which he closed the gate.Anup alleges that he was not informed about the passenger train coming on the down line through any phone call or message.He said,“After the Up line train left, I saw that the down line signal was red. So I thought the train had not yet left the station. Thinking I had some time, I opened the gate.”## Why Was the Rail Gate Opened?Some local residents claim that generally, the gate is kept closed when trains on the up and down lines pass consecutively. However, the accident occurred when the gate was opened after the Up line train passed on Friday.In this regard, Anup Karmakar stated that it is not directly visible from his cabin whether a train is coming on the down line. He further claims that if the train driver had honked in advance, he could have been alerted. However, he alleges that he did not hear that horn either.## Local AngerAfter the accident, angry locals protested against the gatekeeper and reportedly assaulted him. The police later rescued and arrested him.Some locals claim that this accident occurred due to the gatekeeper's irresponsibility. Some others have alleged that he was inebriated at the time of the incident. However, hospital sources have stated that there is currently no evidence of his intoxication from preliminary tests.## What Is Emerging from the Investigation?While the initial railway investigation has raised the possibility of negligence on the part of the gatekeeper, Anup Karmakar's claims have raised new questions in the investigation. Investigators are examining whether the communication system with the station master, the condition of the signal, and the protocols regarding train movements were properly followed.It will become clear after the joint investigation report by the railway authorities and the administration is published who is truly responsible for this tragic accident.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 60 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 21, 2026

Massive 15-Foot Python Captured in Agricultural Land of West Medinipur, Crowds Gather Despite Rain

Chandrakona, West Medinipur: A massive 15-foot long python was rescued in the Madhavpur Kumorpara area adjacent to Thakur Bari market in Chandrakona municipality of West Medinipur district, creating a significant stir amidst heavy rain. Many people gathered to catch a glimpse of the python, ignoring the rain.According to local sources, the python got trapped in a net in an agricultural field on Monday morning. The farmers and local residents were initially alarmed upon seeing the snake. As news spread quickly, many people from nearby areas flocked to the scene.There was both curiosity and concern surrounding the massive python in the area. Local residents demanded swift action from the forest department. Upon receiving the news, forest department personnel arrived at the scene and began the rescue operation.After several hours of effort, the forest workers were able to safely rescue the python. The snake was then taken into custody by the forest department. According to forest department sources, the python will be released into a suitable natural environment after necessary health checks and observation.Experts suggest that during the monsoon, rising water levels and changes in natural habitats often lead wild animals to venture into human settlements. Therefore, it is advised not to panic in such situations and to inform the forest department.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 66 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 20, 2026

New Rules at Bakreshwar on Shravan Monday, Devotees Cannot Enter the Sanctum to Pour Water

Birbhum: On the first Monday of the month of Shravan, thousands of pilgrims visiting the Bakreshwar Shiva temple in Birbhum witnessed a different scene. In the interest of maintaining the safety and order of the devotees and controlling the excessive crowd, the Bakreshwar temple authorities, priests, and police administration have jointly made an important decision.Located on the banks of the Pahra River in Birbhum district of West Bengal, the Bakreshwar Shiva temple is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for followers of the Sanatan Hindu religion. This pilgrimage site, one of the 51 Shakti Peeths, features a Shiva Lingam called ‘Bakranath’ that stands about 10 feet tall. The area surrounding the temple also has several natural hot springs with medicinal properties, which are a special attraction for visitors.Every year in the month of Shravan, especially on Mondays, thousands of Shiva devotees gather here to pour water on Baba Bakreshwar’s head to earn merit. To manage this massive gathering, new arrangements have been made this year.According to temple sources, on the Mondays of the month of Shravan, devotees will no longer be allowed to enter the sanctum sanctorum of the temple to directly pour water on the Shiva Lingam or perform worship. Instead, they will have to offer water through a designated funnel placed in the temple premises. The water offered through that funnel will reach Baba Bakranath’s Shiva Lingam directly.The police administration has stated that this decision has been made keeping in mind the convenience and safety of the devotees. The arrival of a large number of pilgrims on the Mondays of Shravan often creates excessive crowding in the sanctum, which can increase the risk of accidents. With the new arrangement, crowd control will be easier, and devotees will also be able to offer water without any hindrance.It is noteworthy that similar arrangements have been in place at various famous Shiva pilgrimage sites across the country for a long time. However, as this rule is being implemented for the first time at the Bakreshwar Shiva temple, it has particularly caught the attention of the devotees.While there have been mixed reactions to this new arrangement on the holy Mondays of Shravan, most devotees have welcomed the temple authorities' decision in the interest of safety and order.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 67 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 19, 2026

Flower Rain for Pilgrims at Shraboni Mela Starting Tomorrow, No Entry Issued on Multiple Roads

Hooghly: The traditional Shraboni Mela of Tarakeshwar is set to begin tomorrow, marking one of its main phases. With the possibility of millions of devotees gathering on the first Monday of the Shrabon month, the administration has taken several special measures regarding security and services.According to administration sources, a flower rain will be organized from a helicopter to honor the water travelers heading to Tarakeshwar. Devotees from various parts of the country, not just West Bengal, come to Tarakeshwar to partake in this sacred journey during the Shrabon month.For the convenience of the pilgrims, service centers have been established every 5 kilometers along the approximately 37-kilometer journey from Sheoraphuli to Tarakeshwar. These centers will provide 24-hour medical services, necessary medicines, ORS, and emergency medical assistance. Additionally, arrangements for ambulances will also be made if needed.To enhance security, police posts, guide maps, and security forces have been deployed at various important intersections along the route. The journey from Nimai Tirtha Ghat to Tarakeshwar has been decorated with lighting to ensure that devotees face no difficulties in traveling even at night.Meanwhile, keeping in mind the large gathering, special restrictions may be imposed on vehicle movement. The police have plans to control vehicles by declaring no entry on multiple important roads. However, the administration has stated that alternative routes will also be arranged for the convenience of the general public.Overall, the administration has made extensive preparations to ensure the safety, healthcare, and smooth journey of the hundreds of thousands of devotees arriving at the Shraboni Mela.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 64 reads

বিজ্ঞান ও প্রযুক্তি Jul 19, 2026

Temporary Disruption in Facebook Services Worldwide, Users Facing Issues Logging In and Posting

Digital Desk: On Sunday, a major temporary disruption occurred in the services of the popular social media platform Facebook. Many users from various parts of the world faced issues logging in, viewing news feeds, uploading photos or videos, and sending messages on Messenger. Users from different countries reported similar problems.Thousands of complaints were filed within a short time on the disruption monitoring platform Downdetector. According to user reports, the web version experienced more issues, although some users also reported disruptions while using the mobile app.What kind of issues were experienced?According to user complaints—Problems logging into FacebookNews feed not loadingDisruptions in uploading photos and videosProblems sending or receiving messages on MessengerWebsite not opening normally on desktop browsersMany users saw a message on their screens indicating that the account was temporarily unavailable due to site-related issues and were advised to try again after some time.Meta's ResponseAs of the time of this report, Facebook's parent company Meta has not officially provided detailed information about the specific cause of the disruption. Therefore, clear information regarding the actual source of the problem has not yet been released.According to technology experts, in such situations, it is advisable for users to wait for some time instead of repeatedly changing passwords or attempting to create new accounts. In most cases, accounts can be used as before once the service is restored.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 77 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 19, 2026

Offering Flowers to Messi's Statue, Artist Sushant Roy from Asansol Hopes for World Cup Victory

Asansol: As the excitement for the football World Cup reaches its peak, renowned artist Sushant Roy from the Asansol industrial area has set a unique example of love and emotion for his favorite star, Lionel Messi.His wax museum located in Mahishila, Asansol, already houses several prominent players, thinkers, and famous personalities from around the world. Recently, the wax statue of football superstar Lionel Messi, entirely crafted by Sushant Roy himself, has been added to that list.He has been a devoted fan of Messi for a long time. Ever since Argentina reached the finals in the World Cup, he has been optimistic about the team's chances of winning. On this special day, driven by that emotion, Sushant Roy offered flowers to the statue he created of Messi. Moreover, a replica of the World Cup trophy was already arranged next to the statue.According to the artist, “Messi is not just a footballer; he is the emotion of millions. His success inspires me. That’s why I organized this special tribute in his honor.”Visitors at the museum were also thrilled to see this extraordinary initiative. Many took pictures with Messi's statue to make the moment memorable.This blend of football passion and artistic expression has become a new topic of discussion in Asansol. Such dedication from a fan-artist towards his favorite star has undoubtedly caught everyone's attention.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 52 reads

বিনোদন Jul 18, 2026

Birthday Surprise! Priyanka Chopra's New Look Revealed from 'Varanasi', Fans Excited

**Mumbai:** Priyanka Chopra is equally popular in both Bollywood and Hollywood. On her 44th birthday, a special gift has arrived for her fans. Two new looks of the actress have been revealed from director S.S. Rajamouli's upcoming film **‘Varanasi’**, which have already sparked widespread discussion on social media.The filmmakers have released two distinct character portrayals of Priyanka to celebrate her birthday. In one, she appears in a mysterious and powerful avatar, while the other showcases her free-spirited and adventurous personality. Both looks have increased curiosity among the audience regarding the film's story and characters.In a congratulatory message from the filmmakers, it was stated that the film will take the audience on a new journey. Director S.S. Rajamouli also congratulated the actress, praising her acting skills and personality.It has been revealed that Priyanka plays a significant character named **‘Mandakini’** in the film. She will be seen in a brave and influential role as one of the central characters of the story.https://www.instagram.com/p/Da6z3l9CbJo/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==With this film, Priyanka Chopra is returning to mainstream Indian cinema after a long hiatus. There is already significant excitement among the audience and film lovers regarding her comeback. In an interview, the actress mentioned that there could not have been a more suitable opportunity than this project to return to Indian cinema.There has been tremendous interest in this big-budget film by director Rajamouli from the very beginning. This pan-India film, created with a mix of action, adventure, and mythological elements, will also feature Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran in significant roles alongside Priyanka.According to film industry experts, like Rajamouli's previous works, this film could also be an international-level cinematic experience. Therefore, the new glimpse released on her birthday has further heightened audience expectations.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 81 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 18, 2026

Disagreement with Family, Damayanti Went Missing Voluntarily! Rescued in Good Health After 40 Hours, Family Relieved

**Howrah:** After nearly 40 hours of anxiety, worry, and speculation, the search for 15-year-old talented rifle shooter Damayanti Sen from Howrah has finally come to an end. She was rescued in good health and normal condition from the Ramkrishnapur Ganga ghat area in Howrah on Saturday morning. The family breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing the news of their daughter's safe return.Damayanti's coach and Olympian Joydeep Karmakar posted on social media, stating, **“Damayanti has been found, she is safe.”** This news quickly spread relief among the sports community and the general public.According to police sources, Damayanti voluntarily left home due to disagreements with her family regarding sports and studies. The investigation revealed that during her time missing, she roamed around various places and was later trying to return to Howrah.After the news of Damayanti's disappearance became public, the Howrah police initiated extensive efforts. At one point, it was reported that she had been seen in the Chandannagar area. Based on this information, a special search was launched with the assistance of the Chandannagar police. After verifying various sources, her location was finally identified on Saturday morning.As part of the investigation, CCTV footage from Howrah station was also reviewed. She was seen walking alone on the station platform. Although no confirmed information about her movements was obtained, the police continued their search.Damayanti, a resident of central Howrah, had recently been given the opportunity to participate in a national-level trial. Her talent in rifle shooting has already garnered praise. This is why her disappearance raised concerns in the sports community and various circles.Finally, with her safe return home, family, relatives, and coaches expressed relief. The family expressed gratitude to the police administration for their prompt action and assistance.Currently, it is reported that Damayanti is in good health. The police are completing necessary formalities and examining all aspects of the incident.**The safe return of this talented young shooter, ending 40 hours of anxiety, has now become a relief news throughout Howrah.**

by Editor - Bengal News Net 59 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 18, 2026

Police and Central Forces Surround Bulldozer, Office of Abhishek Banerjee Being Demolished in Amtala

**Amtala, South 24 Parganas:** Under tight security, the administration began demolition work at the office of All India General Secretary of Trinamool Congress and MP from Diamond Harbour, Abhishek Banerjee, on Saturday morning. A large number of police and central forces have been deployed at the site. The fire department has also been kept on standby. The commencement of demolition work with a bulldozer on a part of the office has created significant excitement in the area.According to administration sources, notices were sent on June 30 for the first time and on July 7 for the second time, seeking clarification regarding the construction-related documents and necessary approvals for the office. Additionally, instructions were given to appear at the district administration office on July 15 to respond. However, the administration claims that no response was received within the stipulated time, and the concerned parties did not appear at the administration office.Following this, the district administration decided to take strict action. From Saturday morning, guardrails were installed around the office to create a security perimeter. Several senior officials of the administration were present at the site. Shortly thereafter, a bulldozer was brought in, and the demolition work commenced.The administration claims that the land on which the office is built was purchased under the name 'Lips and Bounds'. It is also claimed that the name of Abhishek Banerjee's father, Amit Banerjee, is mentioned in the land documents. The administration stated that the notice was sent to seek clarification regarding this information and documents.However, this incident has sparked a strong political debate. While some opposition members claim the administration's actions are lawful, it is believed that the Trinamool Congress may label these actions as politically motivated.To prevent any unpleasant situation arising from the incident, security measures have been further strengthened. The demolition work is ongoing under the supervision of the administration, and strict monitoring of the situation is being maintained.。

by Editor - Bengal News Net 73 reads

বিজ্ঞান ও প্রযুক্তি Jul 18, 2026

Will AI Really Take Your Job? What Is the Reality Beside the Panic

Will artificial intelligence (AI) take away jobs from ordinary people— this question is now everywhere, from offices to tea stalls. However, multiple international and Indian surveys from 2025-26 indicate that the reality is as complex as it is alarming— while AI is indeed reducing certain types of jobs, it is simultaneously creating new kinds of work, and the most significant impact is on changing the nature of work, not completely eliminating jobs.According to the World Economic Forum's 'Future of Jobs Report 2025', by 2030, technological, economic, and demographic changes will create approximately 170 million new jobs worldwide, while about 92 million jobs will be lost. In other words, the net increase will be around 78 million jobs. The report is based on data from over 1,000 employers across 55 countries.However, the real change is hidden beneath these numbers. The forum's report states that by 2030, about 22% of jobs will undergo significant changes. The fastest-growing roles will be AI and machine learning specialists, big data analysts, cybersecurity experts, and software developers. Conversely, the most affected will be clerical and routine office jobs— such as data entry workers, bank cashiers, and postal workers.According to an analysis by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), nearly 40% of jobs worldwide will be affected by AI in some way. However, the organization noted that while this rate is about 60% in advanced economies, it is comparatively lower in developing countries— around 40% in emerging markets like India, and about 26% in low-income countries. This means the impact is not uniform across all countries.What does the picture look like for India? The most detailed survey was conducted by ICRIER (Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations), with support from OpenAI. The findings of this survey, conducted on 650 IT companies in 10 cities between November 2025 and January 2026, indicate that generative AI is not leading to mass layoffs in India's IT sector. Rather, the nature of work is changing.However, layoffs are not entirely absent. According to staffing agency TeamLease, by May 2026, approximately 10,000 to 15,000 employees in India's tech sector have lost their jobs through 'silent layoffs'— meaning staff reductions have occurred without public announcements. Another agency, CIEL HR Services, estimates this number to be around 12,000. Some industry experts predict that throughout 2026, the number of positions in India's tech sector could decrease by 25,000 to 35,000. However, these layoffs are not solely due to AI; experts have indicated that corrections from excessive hiring post-COVID and restructuring of companies are also significant factors.A crucial piece of information has been provided by the Harvard Business Review. Based on a survey of 1,006 global executives conducted in December 2025, the report from January 2026 states that only 2% of companies reported significant layoffs due to actual AI implementation. The rest are reducing staff or slowing hiring mainly due to concerns that AI will change job demands in the future— meaning that in many cases, the layoffs are not a direct result of AI now, but rather a precautionary measure in anticipation of AI's arrival.On the flip side, demand is also increasing. According to job portal foundit, AI-related hiring in India could grow at an annual rate of about 32% in 2026, potentially reaching around 380,000 positions. The largest share will be in IT and software (37%), followed by banking and insurance (approximately 16%).Consulting firm PwC's 'Global AI Jobs Barometer 2026' highlights another aspect. Analyzing over a billion job advertisements, the firm claims that companies that use AI the most are about 40% more productive than those that use it less— and these companies are also rapidly increasing salaries and employee numbers. However, at the same time, the skills required for AI-dependent jobs are changing more than twice as fast compared to AI jobs.Will AI take jobs— this debate is not new. The same concerns have arisen during every major technological revolution, from the advent of computers to automation. A significant portion of experts suggests that the impact of AI should be viewed in two parts— which 'jobs' are being completely eliminated, and which 'tasks' are being handled by AI. In most cases, it is not entire jobs that are disappearing, but rather some routine tasks within jobs that AI is taking over, resulting in a change in the nature of work.Another urgent aspect in the context of India— the informal sector. According to the International Labour Organization's (ILO) 'Global Employment and Social Trends 2026' report, 80 to 90% of workers in India are engaged in informal or semi-formal work, where most lack written contracts, paid leave, or social security. The direct impact of AI on this vast segment is not as intense as in IT or white-collar jobs, but experts believe that in the long term, the touch of automation and robotics could also affect blue-collar jobs.Almost all reports highlight a common recommendation— upskilling. According to the World Economic Forum, by 2030, about 39% of current skills will change or become obsolete. As a result, those who learn to use AI as a tool are gaining opportunities; while those who remain stuck in routine tasks are facing increased pressure.AI, artificial intelligence, jobs, AI jobs, future of work, technology, IT sector India, automation

by Bengal News Net 101 reads

বিজ্ঞান ও প্রযুক্তি Jul 18, 2026

Can You Really Become a Crorepati with Just 2000 Taka SIP a Month? Know the Calculation and Reality

**Desk Report:** Many believe that to become a crorepati, a large income or substantial capital is necessary. However, some financial experts believe that it is possible to build a significant fund from comparatively small amounts of money through long-term and regular investments. That is why the Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) of mutual funds has become popular among ordinary investors.According to financial planners, with regular investments and the benefits of compounding over a long period, even small savings can grow significantly in the future. For example, if someone invests 2000 Taka in SIP every month and receives an average annual return of 12%, a substantial fund can be created in the long run.### Possible Calculation* Monthly SIP: 2000 Taka* Investment Duration: 35 years* Total Investment: Approximately 8.4 lakh Taka* Estimated Annual Return: 12%* Possible Fund: Over 1 crore Taka* Possible Maturity Value: Approximately 1.1 crore TakaHowever, this calculation is entirely an example-based estimate. Actual returns may vary depending on market conditions, fund performance, and the duration of the investment.### What is Step-Up SIP?Financial experts often recommend a 'Step-Up SIP'. In this method, the investor increases the SIP amount slightly every year or at specified intervals. If the investment amount is increased along with income growth, it may take less time to reach the goal, and the size of the fund can also increase significantly.### Importance of Long-Term InvestmentAccording to experts, the greatest strength of SIP is disciplined investing and long-term compounding. By continuing regular investments, the impact of market fluctuations can be largely mitigated. However, if there are frequent breaks in investment or if one expects profits in a short time, the desired results may not be achieved.### Important WarningAll investments based on mutual funds and the stock market are subject to market risks. Past returns do not guarantee future results. Therefore, before investing, one should discuss their financial goals, risk tolerance, and consult a qualified financial advisor as needed.**Note:** This report is published for informational and educational purposes only. It is not an investment advice.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 91 reads

ভাইরাল Jul 18, 2026

As the Ambulance Arrived, the Road Cleared Instantly: The Humanity of Thousands of Devotees Amazes the Internet

Web Desk: A crowd of thousands, a vibrant religious procession, a festive atmosphere all around. In such a scenario, a rare sight of the road being cleared instantly for an ambulance was captured by a drone camera. This video from the annual ‘Wari’ pilgrimage held in Pune, Maharashtra, has gone viral on social media and has garnered a storm of praise.The viral video shows thousands of devotees marching together in the traditional Wari procession. At that moment, as an ambulance approached the procession, the sound of the siren prompted the devotees to quickly move aside. Within seconds, the entire road was cleared for the ambulance to proceed to its destination without any hindrance.Most notably, amidst such a large gathering, there was no chaos or rush. The devotees moved aside in a very orderly manner, which has impressed not only the many present but also social media users. This scene captured by the drone camera has quickly spread across various social media platforms.https://twitter.com/i/status/2076693056401911882A video posted from an X (formerly Twitter) account named ‘WaiWari24’ stated, **“This is not an act of grace, it is a responsibility.”** The post conveyed a message to citizens that clearing the road for an ambulance is not an act of kindness, but the duty of every responsible citizen.After the video surfaced, some netizens referred to it as a shining example of civic awareness. Many believe that this incident demonstrated that with awareness, discipline, and a spirit of mutual cooperation, even a massive gathering can be managed smoothly. Others commented that such examples need to be highlighted more in society to emphasize the importance of emergency services.Already, hundreds of thousands of people have viewed the video on social media. Many users have expressed hope that inspired by this scene, more people will clear the way quickly for ambulances in the future and assist in emergency services.This incident in Pune is now being praised across the country as a unique example of humanity, responsibility, and discipline.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 88 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 18, 2026

Panic in Malincha Village Due to Erosion of Subarnarekha, Homesteads and Agricultural Land Lost to River; Demand for Permanent Dam Construction

Jhargram, Correspondent:Due to continuous rainfall, the water level of the Subarnarekha River has risen, leading to extensive riverbank erosion in Malincha village of Jhargram district's Gobindopur-2 block. Vast agricultural lands, trees, and several homesteads have already been submerged. Many houses are precariously situated on the riverbank, causing residents to live in fear.According to local sources, the water level of the Subarnarekha River has rapidly increased due to several days of continuous rain. This has caused the riverbank to start collapsing. Many farmers have lost their agricultural land due to the severity of the erosion. Houses located right by the river are also now at risk of being eroded.Villagers complain that every year, when the monsoon arrives, various parties assure them of measures to prevent riverbank erosion, but no permanent solutions are ever implemented. Once the monsoon ends, the issue loses administrative importance. As a result, the people of Malincha village have been suffering the same plight year after year.Locals claim that illegal sand extraction from the Subarnarekha River for a long time has disrupted the river's natural flow and ecological balance. The riverbed has deepened and the bank soil has weakened, leading to increased erosion every monsoon. They believe that if illegal sand extraction is not stopped immediately, the situation could become even more dire in the future.Due to riverbank erosion, not only land and houses but also the livelihoods of many families are at risk. Many have already started moving important documents and valuable items to safer places. Residents are spending sleepless nights in fear of the sound of the riverbank collapsing in the darkness.Meanwhile, to assess the situation, Tapas Sui, president of the BJP's Nayagram 5 Mandal, recently visited Malincha village. He spoke with the affected families and listened to their problems. He also assured them that he would bring the matter to the attention of higher authorities and take necessary steps to demand a permanent solution.Currently, the people of Malincha village have one demand—rapid construction of a permanent dam on the banks of the Subarnarekha River and a complete halt to illegal sand extraction. They fear that if immediate action is not taken, many more houses, agricultural lands, and settlements could be swallowed by the river in the future.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 62 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 17, 2026

Horrific Fire at Food Hotel in Durgapur, Store Reduced to Ashes in Moments! Loss of Over a Lakh Taka

Staff Report, Durgapur: A horrific fire caused a stir in Durgapur during the busy hours. A fire broke out at a food hotel and was completely engulfed in flames within moments. The incident occurred on Friday morning in the area near Gandhi More adjacent to L College More in Durgapur. It is reported that there has been significant damage due to this incident.How did the accident happen?According to local and police sources, on Friday morning, like any other day, the hotel owner was preparing for cooking. Suddenly, while heating oil in a pan, a fire broke out. The flames were so intense that they spread throughout the store in the blink of an eye. As the store was a temporary structure made of bamboo and tarpaulin, the fire quickly engulfed the surroundings. All the furniture, cooking gas cylinders, equipment, and food items inside the hotel were reduced to ashes.Fire and Police at the Scene:Such a fire in a busy area naturally caused panic among local residents and passersby. The fire department and police were notified. Upon receiving the news, the police from the Raniganj Faridpur outpost and a fire engine quickly arrived at the scene.Thanks to the firefighting team's prompt action, the fire was completely brought under control within a short time. Due to the swift actions of the fire department, the fire could not spread to other nearby shops and residential areas, thus avoiding a majorExtent of Damage:Preliminary estimates suggest that the hotel owner has suffered losses of over 1 lakh taka due to this horrific fire. The hotel owner, having lost his only means of livelihood, is practically at a loss. The fire originated from the oil in the pan or if there is another reason (such as a gas cylinder leakage), the fire department and the police from the Faridpur outpost are investigating.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 78 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 17, 2026

Talented rifle shooter from Howrah goes missing before national team opportunity, family worried

Howrah, own correspondent: The mysterious disappearance of a talented teenage rifle shooter from Howrah has caused a stir in the area. The missing teenager's name is Damayanti Sen (15). She is a resident of Umacharan Bhattacharya Lane in central Howrah and is known for her significant achievements in rifle shooting.According to family sources, Damayanti left home on Thursday morning for some shopping. However, since then, there has been no trace of her. Family members have searched various places but have not found her. It is reported that she was last seen **in the platform area of Howrah station**.Damayanti's father, Dhruvjyoti Sen, a teacher by profession, stated that his daughter has consistently performed well in rifle shooting and had recently been given the opportunity to participate in the national team trials. She practiced regularly every day. The family claims that there was no unusual behavior or family conflict before the incident.According to family members, everything was normal the previous night. Since she left home the next morning, there has been no communication with her. There is confusion regarding the cause of the incident.A complaint regarding the missing person has already been filed at Howrah police station. The police are taking the matter seriously and have started an investigation through various sources. CCTV footage from the station and surrounding areas is also being reviewed, according to police sources.Meanwhile, news of Damayanti's disappearance has spread on social media. The family has appealed to the general public to contact the police or the family immediately if anyone has any information about her.The sudden disappearance of this talented athlete has created deep concern among family, teammates, and acquaintances. Everyone is waiting for her swift and safe return.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 61 reads

কলকাতা Jul 17, 2026

Actress Kajol Offered Prayers at Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Kolkata, Own Correspondent: On Thursday morning, Bollywood actress Kajol was seen offering prayers at the historic Maa Bhavatarini Temple in Dakshineswar. She entered the temple following administrative security protocols and participated in the worship of the goddess.According to temple sources, the actress arrived in Dakshineswar early in the morning. Considering the crowd of devotees and security issues, special arrangements were made for her darshan and worship. Although she stayed in the temple premises for a while after the puja, she did not speak to the media.There was considerable interest among fans surrounding the actress's visit. However, she completed the religious rituals while maintaining complete personal privacy. Kajol did not comment on what she prayed for at the temple.After the puja, she quickly left the temple premises. Administrative sources have indicated that security measures in the temple area were further strengthened in light of her visit.Every day, countless devotees from various parts of the country gather at Dakshineswar Kali Temple. On this day, popular actress Kajol also joined that list. Photos and videos of her religious visit have already spread on social media.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 83 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 17, 2026

Tragic Train Accident in Baharampur: Train Hits School Bus, 5 Dead

Murshidabad, Correspondent: Five people lost their lives in a horrific train accident at a level crossing between Karnasubarna and Gobindpur stations in Murshidabad. Among the deceased, four were school students and one was a cyclist, according to administrative sources. Several others were injured in the incident. A shadow of mourning has descended over the area after the accident.According to eyewitnesses and local sources, the level crossing gate was opened after a train passed. At that time, when a school bus attempted to cross the railway line, a train coming from the opposite direction collided with it violently. The impact of the collision severely damaged the bus.The family of the injured driver has alleged that negligence in managing the gate led to this accident. Some local residents have also raised questions about the safety measures at the level crossing. However, the administration has stated that the veracity of these allegations will be verified through an investigation.The railway authorities have already temporarily suspended the gatekeeper involved. Additionally, administrative action has been taken against another railway employee for negligence in duty. The railway and police administration have begun an investigation into the incident. The accused gatekeeper has been taken into custody for questioning, according to police sources.Railway sources have reported that a passenger train hit the school bus while it was crossing the level crossing between Karnasubarna and Gobindpur stations. Several people died on the spot in the accident. Later, more fatalities occurred while receiving treatment in the hospital.Following this tragic incident, the railway and state government have announced financial assistance for the families of the deceased. The railway has stated that the families of the deceased will receive 10 lakh rupees, and the state government will provide 5 lakh rupees per family as compensation.A high-level investigation has been initiated to ascertain the actual cause of the accident. The rules for managing the level crossing, signaling system, the process of opening and closing the gate, and the responsibilities of the involved personnel are being thoroughly examined. The administration has stated that further steps will be taken based on the investigation report.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 60 reads

কর্মসংস্থান সংবাদ Jul 17, 2026

Recruitment of Junior Research Fellow in Research Project at IIIT Kalyani, Work on Sensor for Cervical Cancer Detection

The Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT Kalyani) has published a notification for the recruitment of Junior Research Fellow (JRF) for a government-funded research project. According to the institution's notification, applications are invited from interested candidates for a position under the National Research Foundation–Advanced Research Grant (ANRF-ARG) project. The last date for applying via email is July 24, and the last date for sending a hard copy by post is July 31, 2026.According to the notification published by IIIT Kalyani (Advt. No. IIITK/Rectt/AIPOC_SRIC-JRF/2026/06, date 30-06-2026), one (01) vacancy for JRF will be filled. The position is mentioned as 'JRF (ECE)' under the Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) department.The principal investigator of the project is Dr. Rinki Saha, Assistant Professor of the ECE department. The co-principal investigator is Dr. Oishila Bandopadhyay, Assistant Professor of the Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) department. Additionally, several medical researchers from AIIMS Kalyani are also involved in the project, as stated in the notification.According to information published on the job website FacultyTick and ServiceSetu, the project focuses on developing a 'label-free' electrochemical sensor for detecting cervical cancer biomarkers using AI-based, nature-inspired MXene nanostructures.Regarding eligibility, the websites have mentioned that candidates must possess a first-class postgraduate (M.E / M.Tech / M.Sc) degree in relevant subjects such as ECE, Radio Physics and Electronics, Nanotechnology, Biotechnology, or Biological Sciences, along with GATE/NET or equivalent qualifications. However, it is noted that candidates who have obtained a first-class degree through national-level entrance examinations of central institutions like IIT, IISc, and ISAR are exempt from GATE/NET.According to the notification, the selected candidate must enroll in the full-time PhD program at IIIT Kalyani in accordance with the institution's regulations. Candidates are required to apply in the prescribed format and send the necessary documents to Dr. Rinki Saha via email and post. The interview date for shortlisted candidates will be communicated via email.IIIT Kalyani is an information technology education and research institution located in the Webel IT Park campus in Kalyani, Nadia district of West Bengal. The institution is formed under a 'Not-for-Profit Public-Private Partnership' (N-PPP) model and is jointly funded by the Ministry of Education, Government of West Bengal, and industry partners, as mentioned on the institution's website.Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) is generally a temporary position under a government-funded research project, where the selected candidate gets the opportunity to work on the research of the project along with pursuing PhD research. JRFs in such projects are usually provided a monthly stipend, which is determined according to government regulations and project funding.IIIT Kalyani, JRF, Junior Research Fellow, job news, ANRF, research fellowship, Kalyani, recruitment

by Bengal News Net 86 reads

আন্তর্জাতিক Jul 17, 2026

NASA-SETI Scientists Claim Discovery of Life's Ingredients and 'Brine' Chemistry in Meteorite that Struck New Jersey Bedroom

A meteorite that struck through the roof of a bedroom in New Jersey, USA, has been analyzed by scientists from NASA and the SETI Institute, who claim to have found signs of life's fundamental ingredients and a type of 'brine' chemistry. This cosmic rock, known as the 'Hillsborough meteorite,' fell to Earth on July 16, 2024. Researchers state that this discovery could provide new insights into how life originated on Earth.According to statements from CNN and NASA, the research was published on July 15 in the scientific journal 'Science Advances.' The lead author of the study is Peter Jenniskens, a meteor astronomer at the SETI Institute and NASA's Ames Research Center.In NASA's statement, Jenniskens noted that forensic analysis of the fragments revealed they were preserved from near the surface of a primitive asteroid, where the rock had been exposed to concentrated salty liquid. He claims that such a process had not been previously known to occur on primordial bodies (protoplanets).Jenniskens stated that the quick collection of the meteorite by the homeowner allowed it to be one of the purest (pristine) CM1/2 class meteorites found to date. The meteorite is porous and absorbs water from the air, so the homeowner repaired the roof before the rain fell, which researchers say protected the sample from contamination.According to reports from the SETI Institute and CNN, the meteorite's aqueous extract contains a complex mixture of amino acids, which are the fundamental building blocks of proteins. NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center astrophysicist Danny Glavin mentioned that the complexity of these amino acids and organic compounds was astonishing to them. Most of these amino acids are not found naturally on Earth, according to the Smithsonian media.Researchers claim that the meteorite contains high levels of sodium, likely derived from the brine (saltwater) mixed with ice within the original asteroid. After water evaporated, salt crystallized in the rock, which researchers believe could aid in the formation of essential molecules for life.However, researchers also noted that the source of some magnesium-containing organic compounds found in the meteorite remains uncertain. It is unclear whether they originated from brine chemistry or from ancient impact shocks, as mentioned in the study.According to NASA and CNN, on July 16, 2024, a rock the size of a heavy suitcase entered Earth's atmosphere at a speed of about 32,000 miles per hour (14.4 kilometers per second). It created a sonic boom while passing over New York City and then struck through the roof of a bedroom in Hillsborough, New Jersey. No injuries were reported in this incident.Researchers have traced the origin of the meteorite to the asteroid belt located between Mars and Jupiter. According to NASA's statement, it is believed to be related to a primitive asteroid called 'Erigone.'This type of carbonaceous chondrite meteorite is one of the oldest materials in the solar system. Some scientists speculate that such primitive asteroids delivered the organic materials necessary for life to Earth billions of years ago. According to NASA, some fragments of the meteorite will be preserved at the American Museum of Natural History in New York, and further research will continue on them.Hillsborough meteorite, meteorite, উল্কাপিণ্ড, NASA, SETI, origins of life, asteroid, বিজ্ঞান

by Bengal News Net 80 reads

আন্তর্জাতিক Jul 17, 2026

Ukraine's drone attack on Siberian oil refinery 2,500 kilometers away, CIA chief claims Russian soldiers' lifespan in the field is '20-30 minutes'

On July 6, Ukraine launched a long-range drone attack on the Gazprom Neft oil refinery in Omsk, Siberia. According to the Ukrainian military, this attack, carried out at least 2,500 kilometers from the border, is one of their deepest strikes since the war began. Around the same time, CIA chief John Ratcliffe claimed at a conference in Pennsylvania that due to AI-powered drones, the average lifespan of Russian soldiers on the battlefield has dropped to just 20 to 30 minutes.Reuters reported that the local Russian administration confirmed the attack on the oil refinery in Omsk on Monday, July 6. The General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces later also acknowledged responsibility for the attack.Omsk region governor Vitaly Khotsenko stated that the drones reached the industrial area north of the city. However, he did not directly mention the name of the refinery. Khotsenko claimed that at the start of the day, air defense forces in Omsk shot down several drones. The Russian Ministry of Defense also claimed that they destroyed the drones.The Kyiv Post, citing Reuters, reported that operations at the Omsk refinery ceased after the attack, according to two industrial sources. Both Ukraine and industrial sources claim that two primary distillation units (crude distillation units) at the refinery have become inoperable, which is equivalent to nearly three-quarters of total production. This damage assessment primarily comes from Ukraine and commercial sources, and Russia has not independently confirmed it.Different sources have provided varying information regarding the distance of the attack. While the Ukrainian military and several media outlets reported the distance as 2,500 kilometers, some sources including the Kyiv Post have stated it to be up to 3,000 kilometers. The Ukrainian Special Operations Forces (SSO) claimed that the attack was carried out using advanced FP-1 long-range drones.Ukraine has described the Omsk refinery as Russia's largest oil refinery. However, Russian media Astra reported that, according to industrial data, the refining capacity of Kirishi and Achinsk refineries may be higher than this. ⚠️Meanwhile, at a defense and innovation conference held at the Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, CIA chief John Ratcliffe commented on Ukraine's drone capabilities. According to a Bloomberg report, he stated that their intelligence is consistent with open-source reports coming from Ukraine, and the average lifespan of a newly arrived Russian soldier on the battlefield is estimated to be around 20 to 30 minutes. Ratcliffe remarked that AI-powered drones have now become 'specialized, low-cost killing machines.'Military Times reported that Ratcliffe further stated that proficiency in emerging technologies has become as important as military strength, and that is why, even after four and a half years, relatively weaker Ukraine has been able to hold back a powerful force like Russia.In recent months, Ukraine has been carrying out a series of long-range drone attacks targeting Russian oil refineries. The aim of these operations is to exert pressure on Russian energy production and exports. The Ukrainian General Staff claims that these attacks have affected nearly 42 percent of Russia's total oil refining capacity.According to media reports, several regions in Russia are experiencing an energy crisis, and fuel rationing has been implemented in many areas. Although Russian President Vladimir Putin recently acknowledged the energy shortage, he described it as temporary and 'not serious.'There are various estimates regarding casualties in the Russia-Ukraine war. According to research from the American think tank CSIS, over 2 million soldiers from both sides have been killed or injured since the Russian aggression began in February 2022, with Russia's losses estimated at nearly 1.4 million. These statistics are based on estimates from various sources and are difficult to verify independently.

by Bengal News Net 76 reads

কলকাতা Jul 16, 2026

Did you receive money from the Annapurna scheme even after getting Lakshmi's fund? Who can still benefit, find out the details

Financial assistance has already been provided in two phases under the Annapurna scheme in the state. According to government sources, money has been sent to the bank accounts of more than 1.3 crore beneficiaries in July. However, there are still many applicants who have received the benefit of Lakshmi's fund but have not received money from the Annapurna scheme. In this situation, discussions have begun anew about who among them may benefit from this scheme in the future.Recently, the Chief Minister of the state stated in a government program that all eligible women will gradually come under the Annapurna scheme. According to him, there may be some technical and administrative issues in implementing such a large-scale project, which is why money has not yet reached some beneficiaries. However, it has been assured that eligible individuals will receive benefits after the verification process is completed as per the rules.Government sources have revealed that multiple conditions have been implemented in the selection of beneficiaries and verification of information. For this reason, some individuals may be excluded from the list of the Annapurna scheme even if they are beneficiaries of Lakshmi's fund.Experts believe that if there are discrepancies between the voter list and government document information, there may be issues during the verification of applicants' names. Additionally, decisions may also be made based on information related to Indian citizenship, the position of names in government documents, and other administrative verifications.On the other hand, since the project is primarily designated for women, male applicants will not come under this benefit. Additionally, names of individuals identified as deceased, permanently relocated, or disqualified for other reasons in government records may also be excluded from the final beneficiary list.However, it is believed that there is still an opportunity for those whose information is correct and who meet the eligibility criteria set by the government. Applicants have been advised to verify whether their bank account, identification, and other document information are correct.Any new guidelines or updates regarding the Annapurna scheme will be communicated through government sources. Therefore, experts are advising those who have not yet received financial assistance to keep an eye on government announcements and information.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 65 reads

পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Jul 16, 2026

Koel Mallick Resigns from Rajya Sabha Membership, Political Speculation Arises After Meeting with Bhupendra Yadav

New Delhi: After resigning from the Rajya Sabha membership, a meeting between Koel Mallick and Union Minister Bhupendra Yadav has sparked fresh discussions in political circles. Speculations have arisen regarding her future political position.According to sources, Koel Mallick submitted her resignation letter to the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha and Vice President in Delhi on Thursday. It is reported that she was physically present to complete the necessary procedures as per the established rules for resigning from the parliamentary position.Shortly after submitting her resignation letter, she met with Union Minister Bhupendra Yadav. Since this meeting, various questions have begun to arise in political circles. However, no official information has been disclosed by either party regarding the subject of the meeting.It is noteworthy that several former MPs of the Trinamool Congress have recently switched parties and joined the BJP this month. Some of them have also been nominated as candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha by-elections. In this context, observers consider Koel Mallick's resignation and meeting with central leadership to be politically significant.Political sources indicate that multiple equations in national politics have changed recently. There have also been instances of MPs from various parties changing their positions. In this situation, there is considerable curiosity about what Koel's next move will be.Meanwhile, her resignation has become even more significant in political circles before the upcoming session of the Rajya Sabha. This could have been her first opportunity to participate in a full session after gaining membership.However, there has been no official announcement yet regarding which political party Koel Mallick will join in the future or whether she will make any new political decisions. Therefore, while speculation continues, the political circles will have to wait for her next move.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 78 reads

কর্মসংস্থান সংবাদ Jul 16, 2026

236 Staff Nurse Recruitment at SVIMS, Online Applications Begin

The Sri Venkateshwara Institute of Medical Sciences (SVIMS) has initiated a large-scale recruitment drive to strengthen healthcare services. A notification has been issued for the recruitment of 236 staff nurse positions. Interested and eligible candidates can apply online within the specified time.According to the notification, the selected candidates will be stationed in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. The monthly salary for the selected employees will range from approximately ₹38,720 to ₹1,18,390 based on the government pay scale.Staff Nurse – 236 PositionsEducational QualificationApplicants must have completed B.Sc. Nursing from a recognized university and must be registered with the Andhra Pradesh Nursing Council.Additionally, candidates who have completed the General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) course can also apply. In this case, specific experience and registration with the nursing council are mandatory.Age LimitThe minimum age for candidates is set at 18 years, and the maximum age is 42 years.Age relaxation will be provided for candidates from reserved categories as per government rules.Application FeeA separate application fee has been prescribed for candidates from different categories. Candidates with disabilities (PwBD) will not have to pay any application fee.Selection ProcessCandidates will be selected based on a written examination, skill assessment (skill test), and interview.Important Dates* Application Start: July 15, 2026* Application End: August 10, 2026Application ProcedureEligible and interested candidates can apply online by visiting the official website of SVIMS. Candidates are advised to read the complete notification carefully before applying.This is considered a significant opportunity for nursing professionals wishing to build a career in healthcare services.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 95 reads

বিনোদন Jul 16, 2026

Happy News on Their Wedding Anniversary, Sohini Sarkar and Shovon Gangopadhyay are Becoming Parents

Popular Tollywood couple Sohini Sarkar and Shovon Gangopadhyay shared a special happy news with their fans on their second wedding anniversary. They revealed through an emotional picture on social media that a new member is about to join their family. In other words, this star couple is on the way to becoming three from two.In the published picture, Sohini is seen in a white outfit, while Shovon stands beside her, lovingly holding her. The hint of Sohini's motherhood is clearly captured in the photo. In the caption of the post, they wrote, “On our two-year wedding anniversary... we are on the way to becoming three.”Sohini and Shovon tied the knot on July 15, 2024, in the presence of close family members. Two years later, on that very special day, they announced the news of a new chapter in their lives. Since the post was published, their social media pages have been flooded with congratulatory messages. Many Tollywood actors and well-wishers have congratulated the couple.https://www.instagram.com/p/Da0E3XjoODn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==For the past few months, there has been much discussion in the entertainment industry about Sohini's potential motherhood. Speculation intensified around her absence from various events and her reduced public appearances. However, they had not publicly commented on this matter until now.Although Sohini has been seen at several recent events, she has not wanted to say much about her personal life. However, sources close to the couple revealed that they wanted to share this happy news with everyone at the right time. Finally, on their wedding anniversary, that wait has come to an end.Preparations to welcome the new member are reportedly in full swing. Fans are also eagerly awaiting the arrival of this star family's new guest.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 86 reads

ধর্ম ও সংস্কৃতি Jul 16, 2026

Grand Rath Yatra of Jagannath Dev in Digha, Expecting Attendance of Hundreds of Thousands of Devotees

Digha, East Medinipur:The coastal town of Digha is immersed in a festive atmosphere centered around the holy Jagannath Rath Yatra. This year, it is expected that hundreds of thousands of devotees, pilgrims, and visitors from various parts of India as well as abroad will gather for the Rath Yatra.Since morning, the temple premises have been bustling with devotees. Around 10:30 AM, through the traditional Pahandi-Vijaya ceremony, Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra will be brought out of the temple amidst Vedic chants, Harinam Sankirtan, and a devotional atmosphere. They will then be seated on three beautifully decorated chariots.According to the organizers, from 1 PM to 2:30 PM, the three chariots will be adorned with flowers, garments, and traditional decorations. Special offerings will also be made to the deities seated on the chariots.On this day, former Union Minister Shishir Adhikari is expected to be present as the chief guest at the temple premises at 3 PM. The inaugural ceremony of the Rath Yatra will take place from 3 PM to 3:30 PM.Following this, at 3:30 PM, the grand Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra will commence. The chariots of the three deities will proceed towards the Gundicha Temple. Thousands of devotees have already started gathering in Digha to participate in this historic and religious event.The administration has made special arrangements for security, traffic control, health services, and the convenience of the devotees. A festive atmosphere prevails throughout Digha surrounding the Rath Yatra.

by Editor - Bengal News Net 252 reads

আন্তর্জাতিক Jul 16, 2026

US Strikes Again in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran Claims Attacks on US Bases in the Gulf

The United States has launched a new large-scale airstrike near Iran's southern coast close to the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed to have attacked US military bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan in retaliation. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that dozens of military targets were struck in a seven-hour operation on Tuesday night near the Strait of Hormuz and in coastal areas of Iran. Tensions are rising as the fragile ceasefire from April comes under pressure.According to news agencies and multiple US media outlets, CENTCOM stated that fighter jets, drones, and naval vessels were used to target Iran's missile and drone facilities, naval capabilities, and coastal defense systems. The operation reportedly concluded at 10 PM US time (2 AM GMT on Wednesday), according to CENTCOM.Reports from Al Jazeera indicate that Iranian media have reported explosions in several cities and islands along the southern coast, including Bandar Abbas, Kish, Hengam, Sirik, and Bushehr, where air defense systems were activated. The report also mentioned damage to a bottled water factory in Dehloran, West Ilam province, and a military base in Bampour, Sistan-Baluchestan. No immediate confirmation of casualties has been reported.In retaliation, the IRGC claimed to have inflicted significant damage on the US Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, its supporting infrastructure, and fuel tanks, as well as a major US military supply center in Mina Abdullah, Kuwait. They also claimed to have destroyed shelters for F-15, F-16, and F-35 fighter jets and several MQ-9 drones.However, these claims of damage from Iran have not been independently verified. ⚠️ Multiple international news outlets, including Reuters, reported that there has been no independent confirmation of Iran's claims regarding damage or casualties in Bahrain and Jordan. Bahrain's defense forces only stated that their air defense systems had intercepted multiple Iranian aerial attacks.The Jordanian military reported that they shot down an Iranian ballistic missile that entered their airspace early Wednesday morning; there were no casualties or property damage. Notably, there are discrepancies in the number of intercepted missiles reported by different sources — while Al Jazeera and some sources mention three, the Anadolu Agency, citing Jordan's official news agency Petra, reported the number as four.Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump warned in an interview with Fox News that attacks on Iran would continue “until I say so,” and that infrastructure such as power plants and bridges could also become targets in the future. He stated that energy targets would be “left for last,” but ultimately would also be struck. He also claimed that America has warned Tehran to return to the negotiating table.In addition to military strikes, the US has reimposed a naval blockade on ships traveling to Iranian ports, effective from 8 PM GMT on Tuesday night. Al Jazeera's correspondent in Washington, Mike Hanna, reported that approximately 21 US naval vessels are deployed in the region, according to CENTCOM.According to Al Jazeera, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between Washington and Tehran last June, which aimed to extend the April ceasefire and pave the way for negotiations to end the war. The purpose of this agreement was to halt the war that began with Israeli and American attacks on February 28. However, both sides have accused each other of violating the agreement.The recent escalation of tensions began after Iran announced the closure of this strategic waterway following the declaration of a new shipping corridor through the Oman Strait of Hormuz. The IRGC had previously instructed commercial vessels to use only Tehran-approved routes, which they claim is a condition of the MoU from June. According to Iranian news agency IRNA, the IRGC warned on Wednesday that they could close “all export corridors that benefit America and its allies” if necessary.Before the war began, nearly one-fifth of the world's total oil and gas supply passed through the Strait of Hormuz daily. Following reports of the US blockade, crude oil prices began to rise on Wednesday morning; at 12:29 AM GMT, Brent crude reached $86.19 per barrel, significantly higher than around $70 per barrel before the recent tensions. Additionally, the US Treasury announced that it has blocked over $130 million in assets by imposing sanctions on several cryptocurrency wallets linked to Iran's central bank.

by Bengal News Net 102 reads

ধর্ম ও সংস্কৃতি Jul 16, 2026

The Wheels of the Chariot Roll in Puri: What is the Real Story Behind the Jagannath Rath Yatra and Why So Much Crowd

Today, Thursday, July 16, the world’s one of the oldest and largest chariot festivals began in Puri, Odisha. Lord Jagannath, along with his elder brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, leaves the main temple and travels towards the Gundicha temple in three massive wooden chariots, covering a distance of about three kilometers. According to government sources in Puri and the administration of the Shree Jagannath temple, this year the return journey, known as 'Bahuda Yatra', falls on July 24.In Hindu temples, established deities are generally not taken outside the sanctum sanctorum. The Jagannath temple in Puri is an exception to this rule, as stated in official descriptions. On the day of the Rath Yatra, the deities themselves descend to meet the devotees — and this is where the main significance of the festival lies, according to devotees.According to official sources (rathjatra.nic.in) and descriptions from the Shree Jagannath temple, there are three separate chariots for the three deities. The chariot of Jagannath is named Nandighosh — about 45 feet tall, with sixteen wheels, covered in red and yellow cloth. Balabhadra's chariot is Taladhwaja — about 44 feet tall, with fourteen wheels. Subhadra's chariot is Darpadalan — about 43 feet tall, with twelve wheels, adorned in red and black cloth.Every year, these chariots are made anew from specific types of wood, as mentioned in official descriptions. A hereditary group of carpenters is entitled to perform this work.Several rituals are performed before the journey. On the full moon of Jyeshtha, the deities are bathed with 108 pots of water, known as Snana Yatra. The common belief is that after this, the deities become 'ill' and remain in seclusion (anabasara) for a few days. On the morning of the Rath Yatra, the deities are placed on the chariot while being swung to the sound of conch shells and drums — this ritual is called Pahandi Bije.The most talked-about ritual is 'Chhera Pahanra'. In this ritual, the Maharaja of Puri himself sweeps the floor of the chariot with a broom having a golden handle and sprinkles fragrant water, as reported by multiple sources. Even as a king, this humble service before God symbolically conveys — in the eyes of devotees, the king and common people are equal.After this, thousands of devotees pull the chariot towards the Gundicha temple. It is mentioned in official descriptions that people of all castes, religions, or identities can participate in this pulling.There are multiple mythological explanations for why this journey takes place. According to a widely circulated story, Jagannath wishes to visit his maternal home (Gundicha temple) with his siblings every year, and this festival is a commemoration of that journey. Another explanation states that Jagannath and Balabhadra take Subhadra on the chariot for a city tour to fulfill her wishes.Historically, multiple sources claim that the roots of this festival in Puri are centuries old and are linked to the reign of the 12th century. Some researchers also mention the possibility of its indigenous origins from the wooden, human, or animal forms of Lord Jagannath — although there are differing opinions on this.The Rath Yatra is not unfamiliar to readers in West Bengal. According to Wikipedia, the Rath Yatra of Mahesh in Shrirampur is known as the second oldest and the oldest Rath Yatra in Bengal, which has been celebrated since 1396 AD. Since the 1960s, with the influence of ISKCON, Rath Yatra is now celebrated in various cities around the world.

by Bengal News Net 186 reads

জাতীয় Jul 15, 2026

Buy 100% petrol if you don't want ethanol-blended fuel, but it will cost more, says Nitin Gadkari

Amid the ongoing debate over ethanol-blended petrol (E20) across the country, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has stated that those who do not wish to use ethanol-blended fuel can purchase 100% pure petrol — but it will come at a higher price. He made this statement in an interview with 'Times of India' and dismissed concerns about E20 fuel as 'misinformation.'Gadkari's comments come in the context of concerns raised by consumers and some opposition parties regarding reduced mileage and engine damage. According to media sources, he stated in the interview, "Those who do not want ethanol-blended fuel can take 100% petrol, but they will have to pay more."When asked whether it is possible to keep E10 alongside E20 at petrol pumps, Gadkari replied that the country has already achieved the target of blending 20% ethanol and that E20 is now available at almost every pump. He avoided directly commenting on whether separate dispensers for multiple blends will be kept, stating that the decision falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Petroleum.According to news agency sources, Gadkari mentioned that E85 (petrol blended with 85% ethanol) is already available at some pumps for flex-fuel vehicles (FFV). He claimed that E85 is actually cheaper than E20 and that more than half a dozen car companies are preparing to launch such vehicles in the market.Gadkari dismissed the claim that E20 damages engines as misinformation, stating, "All vehicles suitable for E10 are also eligible for E20 usage." He claimed that no complaints of engine damage have been filed so far, and Maruti Suzuki has publicly acknowledged this. Gadkari alleged that the campaign against this program is 'politically motivated.'Regarding mileage, Gadkari admitted that due to the lower calorific value of ethanol compared to petrol, there may be a slight decrease in mileage with E20. Notably, last week, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas also stated that in some vehicles, mileage with E20 fuel could decrease by 3 to 5 percent. However, the ministry claimed that this slight shortfall is not significant compared to the benefits of reduced life-cycle carbon emissions. The ministry described E20 as a 'cleaner, superior, and more efficient fuel' compared to E10 or pure petrol.Gadkari also refuted allegations of benefiting from the ethanol program through family businesses. He stated that discussions regarding ethanol in his sons' sugar mills began long before and that this program was initiated during Atal Bihari Vajpayee's tenure. Gadkari claimed, "Ethanol accounts for only 10 percent of my sons' business, and their share in the country's ethanol business is less than 0.5 percent. Those companies are burdened with debts of 16 billion rupees. A lot of false information is being spread." He asserted that since fuel prices are determined by the Cabinet and the Ministry of Petroleum runs the program, he has no influence over it.Under the ethanol-blended petrol program, up to 20 percent ethanol is blended with regular petrol, known as E20. India reached its target for 2030 nearly six years early, achieving it in the ethanol supply year of 2025-26. Recently, the controversy intensified due to a series of complaints on social media regarding reduced mileage, engine damage, and compatibility with older vehicles. Some drivers claim that mileage is decreasing by 6 to 10 percent, although government figures suggest a shortfall of 3 to 5 percent.In this context, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas published a detailed 10-point Q&A document addressing questions related to engine damage, warranty, insurance, mileage, and environmental impact. The ministry claimed that no significant engine damage has been detected in tests conducted by multiple agencies, including ARAI and Indian Oil, although it acknowledged that some rubber components in older vehicles may wear out sooner.The government claims that since the inception of the ethanol program in 2014-15, it has saved over 1.9 lakh crore rupees in foreign currency by reducing crude oil imports, increased farmers' income, and strengthened the sugar economy. However, the opposition claims that pure petrol and blended petrol should be sold side by side at regular pumps in the interest of older vehicles.

by Bengal News Net 145 reads

আন্তর্জাতিক Jul 13, 2026

Modi in New Zealand after 40 Years, Announces Strategic Partnership

Indian Prime Minister in New Zealand after Four Decades: 18 Decisions in Modi-Luxon Meeting, Relations Reach 'Strategic Partnership'In the Modi-Luxon meeting in Auckland, India-New Zealand relations elevated to strategic partnership. The 'Roadmap 2030' was announced, with 18 decisions and a target to double trade.After a long 40 years, the relationship between the two countries has officially been elevated to 'strategic partnership' during the visit of an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand. On Saturday, at Government House in Auckland, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced the 'Roadmap 2030'— a comprehensive outline covering trade, defense, maritime security, counter-terrorism, agriculture, and education. A total of 18 decisions were announced from the meeting, including 10 agreements and memorandums and 8 policy declarations.Modi arrived in Auckland on Friday night. On Saturday morning, he was welcomed in the traditional Maori 'Pohiri' ceremony at Government House. Accepting the 'Wero' (formal challenge) from the New Zealand Defense Force, he inspected the Guard of Honor with Luxon. The bilateral meeting at the representative level then commenced.The main decision from the meeting is to double the amount of bilateral trade to NZD 7 billion (approximately INR 35,000 crore) by 2030. This target is based on the free trade agreement (FTA) signed in April this year.In defense and security, the two countries have decided to initiate an annual 'Maritime Security Dialogue'. New Zealand is joining India's Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) maritime security pillar. A maritime cooperation agreement, a memorandum regarding hydrography and nautical cartography, and a mutual logistics support agreement have been signed— under which the forces of both countries can use each other's bases and infrastructure for fuel replenishment, repair, and supply of logistics when needed.A joint task force is being formed for counter-terrorism, through which regular discussions and intelligence sharing will take place. A memorandum of understanding has been signed between India's National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and New Zealand's National Emergency Management Agency.However, there was a discrepancy in the statements of the two Prime Ministers regarding a condition of the FTA. Modi referred to the condition regarding the New Zealand government's role in 'promoting' private investment in India as a 'commitment' in his speech and mentioned USD 2 billion in private investment over 15 years. But according to a report by New Zealand media RNZ, Luxon avoided this explanation and stated that there is no financial commitment in that roadmap and it does not create any legally binding obligation.On Saturday afternoon, Modi addressed a gathering of expatriate Indians at Spark Arena in Auckland. He said, “It took 40 years for an Indian Prime Minister to come to New Zealand. It will not take another 40 years, this is Modi's guarantee.” Referring to the Maori word 'Waka', he said it is not just a boat, but a symbol of moving forward together.Outside the venue, however, protests also took place. RNZ reported that Modi supporters and protesters faced each other on either side of police barricades. Among the protesters were members of anti-immigration groups and about a dozen Khalistani supporters. When asked about the protests, Luxon stated that he did not see any protesters and was not concerned.Notably, New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters was not present at the meeting— he was on a visit to Singapore and Japan at that time. From India's side, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri were present.This is the first visit of an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand since Rajiv Gandhi's visit in 1986. Recent momentum came after Luxon's visit to India in March 2025, when discussions on the free trade agreement began and a series of agreements were signed regarding defense, education, customs, horticulture, and sports.According to the FTA signed in April this year, once fully effective, 95% of New Zealand's export products to India will see a reduction or elimination of tariffs; 57% of products will receive duty-free benefits from day one. In the fiscal year 2024-25, the volume of goods trade between the two countries was approximately USD 13 billion, nearly 49% higher than the previous year.A significant portion of New Zealand's population is of Indian descent— according to the Indian government, the number is around 300,000. Elections are scheduled in New Zealand in November. Political observers believe that Luxon wants to present the FTA and this visit as a major success of his foreign policy, although it is still unclear how much impact it will have on the elections.

by Bengal News Net 119 reads

জাতীয় Jul 10, 2026

US Attack Shakes Chabahar Port, Concerns Rise Over India's Investment Worth Thousands of Crores

New Delhi: Amid rising tensions in West Asia, reports have emerged of a US attack on Iran's strategic Chabahar Port. This incident has raised new concerns regarding India's long-standing strategic investments and future commercial plans.According to reports, US forces have launched attacks on multiple coastal areas of Iran. Local media claims that the maritime infrastructure of Chabahar Port, vessel traffic control tower, and power services have also been targeted. As a result of the attack, power supply has been disrupted in parts of the city.Chabahar Port is extremely important to India. New Delhi has long sought to use this port as a strategic hub to establish direct commercial links with Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. India has invested billions of rupees in this project and plays a crucial role in the development and management of the port.Experts believe that if instability increases in Chabahar, India's commercial interests, international transport systems, and regional connectivity projects could face significant setbacks. Additionally, there are concerns that plans to expand trade with Central Asia may also be affected.Meanwhile, India has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict in West Asia. New Delhi has urged all parties to exercise restraint and emphasized the need to return to diplomatic discussions quickly to prevent further complications.Analysts suggest that this attack on Chabahar Port has not only escalated Iran-US tensions but has also posed new challenges to India's long-term strategic and economic interests.

by Bengal News Net 214 reads