Amit Shah Warns of Border Security Measures Ahead of West Bengal Elections Amit Shah, India’s Union Home Minister, has issued stern warnings ahead of the first round of voting in West Bengal’s state assembly elections, vowing to address cross-border infiltration and strengthen security measures. Speaking during his final campaign rally in Chandipur, Shah emphasized that the BJP would seal the border with Bangladesh within 45 days of assuming power and ensure the deportation of illegal immigrants. He also promised to deploy central forces to monitor and neutralize criminal elements linked to the Trinamool Congress (TMC), accusing the party of sheltering “gangsters” who threaten public safety. Shah highlighted the deployment of 2,450 central paramilitary companies—approximately 250,000 troops—to secure polling stations and prevent disruptions. He urged voters to cast their ballots courageously, asserting that the BJP’s victory would dismantle the TMC’s influence and restore order. The minister also criticized TMC leader Mamata Banerjee, claiming her supporters had failed to protect the state from “illegal encroachments” and that her ambitions for her nephew Abhijit Banerjee to become Chief Minister were futile. The speech included a direct threat to TMC operatives, stating that the BJP would identify and deport all infiltrators, even if they hid “in hell.” Shah also announced plans to establish a research center in Chandipur to study the medicinal properties of local water sources. He reiterated the BJP’s commitment to implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), which he claimed would eliminate legal disparities and ensure social equity. Shah’s remarks came as the election campaign intensified, with the BJP vowing to counter TMC’s dominance in West Bengal.#mamata_banerjee #trinamool_congress #amit_shah #abhijit_banerjee #chandipur
Mamata holds first community outreach meet in Bhabanipur, attacks BJP over voter roll deletions West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee held her first community outreach programme in her Bhabanipur constituency on April 19, 2026, using the event to criticize the BJP over alleged voter roll deletions and claims of societal division. The meeting, organized at Ladies’ Park in Bhabanipur, came as Banerjee, a three-term MLA from the seat, prepared for the 2026 assembly polls. The constituency has become a focal point of the election race, with Banerjee facing off against Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, whose 2021 victory over her in Nandigram—after he left the Trinamool Congress to join the BJP—has added historical weight to the contest. At the gathering, Banerjee accused political opponents of attempting to divide society along religious, caste, and community lines. She alleged that names of voters from minority and migrant communities, including Christians, Muslims, Sikhs, Jains, Gujaratis, Biharis, and ISKCON followers, had been removed from electoral rolls during a recent revision process. Specifically, she claimed that around 300 nuns had found their names missing, while voters from Muslim, Bihari, and Gujarati communities were also reportedly struck off without justification. While not directly naming the BJP, she accused her political rivals of using “force” to “capture Bengal” and alleged that central agencies, security forces, and money power were being deployed to secure electoral gains. Banerjee framed the election as a “festival of democracy, not autocracy,” urging unity across communities. She emphasized the state’s commitment to communal harmony, stating that Bengal remains a place where people of all faiths can practice their religion freely.#mamata_banerjee #bjp #suvendu_adhikari #bhabanipur #nandigram

At Ladies’ Park, Didi meets constituents of ‘mini India’ Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee addressed a community gathering at Ladies’ Park in Bhowanipore on Sunday evening, emphasizing the importance of unity among diverse groups. The event, attended by representatives from Christian, Muslim, ISKCON, Sindhi, Gujarati, Jain, Sikh, and Bihari communities, was marked by the presence of Trinamool Congress flags and a crowd that filled the park from around 3:30 pm. The first three rows were reserved for community leaders, including priests from churches. Banerjee arrived at 6 pm, greeted attendees with folded hands, and began her speech by apologizing for delays, citing her direct arrival from Tarakeswar. In her address, Banerjee accused the BJP of attempting to divide people along caste, creed, and community lines. She alleged that approximately 300 nuns had their names removed during the SIR (Service and Recruitment) process and that voters from Muslim, Bihari, and Gujarati communities had been arbitrarily excluded from electoral rolls. She also criticized recent police raids and naka (checkpoint) operations, claiming they subjected ordinary citizens to severe harassment. Banerjee highlighted instances of harassment, including the Russian consulate and an artist returning from work, stating, “Are they running a country? This can’t go on for long.” Addressing the Gujarati community, Banerjee questioned the silence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the alleged deportation of Indian migrants from the United States in chains and handcuffs. She accused the BJP of using central forces, money, and muscle power to “capture Bengal” due to political fears.#kolkata #mamata_banerjee #trinamool_congress #ladies_park #bhowanipore

Mamata Banerjee Engages Voters Directly in Bhabanipur Campaign Chief minister Mamata Banerjee addressed voters in Bhabanipur on Sunday evening without using the raised platform, instead sitting at the same level as the crowd at a section of Ladies Park renamed Uttam Udyan. The event drew attendees from diverse communities, including Sikhs, Sindhis, Gujaratis, Jains, Biharis, and others. Banerjee highlighted her government’s efforts to ensure stability and uninterrupted business, warning that a BJP victory could threaten this progress. During the interaction, she mentioned attending festivals and religious events across communities, such as Chhath Puja, Mahavir Jayanti, Christmas, and dandiya celebrations. She acknowledged her limited knowledge of specific traditions but expressed her intent to foster happiness among people. “I may not know much, but I go because I want people to feel happy,” she told the audience. Banerjee urged communities to resist what she described as the “autocratic” rule of the BJP, accusing the party of using central agencies to suppress dissent. She recounted how demonetisation had disrupted trade and business, citing the nationwide cashless transition as a contributing factor to economic strain. “You saw how India suffered during demonetisation because everything turned cashless. The country is not in a good situation,” she said, urging communities to spread awareness about the alleged negative impacts. The campaign event followed Banerjee’s earlier appearances in Hooghly’s Tarakeswar, East Burdwan’s Kalna and Manteswar, and Burdwan city. Despite the setup of a dais with chairs, a table, and a banner bearing her name and image, she opted to sit at the same level as the crowd.#mamata_banerjee #trinamool_congress #uttam_udyan #church_of_north_india #gurdwara_bara_sikh_sangat
TMC Dismisses Reports of I-PAC Halting WB Operations, Mamata Promises Jobs for Staffers The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Sunday categorically rejected allegations that the political consultancy firm I-PAC had suspended its operations in West Bengal, calling the claims “completely baseless” and accusing the BJP-led central government of orchestrating a conspiracy to undermine the party’s election campaign. The TMC’s sharp rebuttal came hours after media reports suggested I-PAC, which has been a key partner in the party’s electoral efforts since 2021, had instructed its employees in the state to halt work immediately and take a 20-day leave. According to a newspaper report, an email purportedly sent by I-PAC to its staff late on Saturday night cited “legal obligations” and stated that operations in West Bengal would remain suspended until May 11. However, the I-PAC has not yet issued an official statement confirming or denying the claims. In response, the TMC released an official communiqué asserting that the firm had not withdrawn from the party’s campaign. The statement emphasized that the I-PAC team in West Bengal “remains fully engaged” with the TMC and that campaign activities across the state were proceeding as planned. The TMC’s statement also accused the BJP and central agencies of attempting to sow confusion and distract from the “clear mood on the ground,” with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee vowing that the electorate of West Bengal would “respond democratically” to any such efforts. Banerjee, who addressed an election rally in Tarakeswar, accused the BJP and central authorities of trying to intimidate not only the TMC but also its workers.#mamata_banerjee #trinamool_congress #enforcement_directorate #ipac #prateek_jain

Bengal Polls: Trinamool Congress Denies I-PAC Operation Pause Amid Election Preparations The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Sunday dismissed a news report alleging that the political consultancy Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) had suspended its operations in West Bengal ahead of the state Assembly elections, calling the claim “completely baseless.” The ruling party’s statement came as the state prepares for polls scheduled in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with vote counting set for May 4. In a detailed response, the TMC clarified that I-PAC, which has managed the party’s election campaigns, including the 2021 Assembly elections, remained fully operational and actively engaged in campaign activities. The party accused the report of being a “deliberate attempt to create confusion on the ground” and emphasized that the people of Bengal would “respond democratically” to such misinformation. The disputed report, published by the Deccan Herald, claimed that I-PAC’s Bengal team had been instructed to take a 20-day leave, with a review expected on May 11. However, the TMC denied this, asserting that campaign efforts were proceeding as planned. The party also highlighted the ongoing legal battles over the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) recent raids on I-PAC offices, which it described as an attempt to disrupt its electoral preparations. The ED’s actions have intensified in recent months. In April, the agency conducted searches at multiple locations linked to I-PAC officials, including premises in Kolkata. One of the firm’s directors, Vinesh Chandel, was arrested on April 13 and remanded to 10 days’ custody in connection with a coal smuggling case.#mamata_banerjee #trinamool_congress #enforcement_directorate #calcutta_high_court #indian_political_action_committee

Mamata Banerjee Challenges PM Modi Over Women's Reservation Bill and Delimitation Disputes Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has strongly refuted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's criticism of the Women's Reservation Bill, which was passed by the Lok Sabha in 2023. Modi had accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of blocking the bill, claiming it was part of a broader political agenda to undermine the government's authority. Banerjee dismissed these allegations as misleading, asserting that the TMC had supported the bill from the outset and that Modi's claims were based on misinformation. Banerjee highlighted that the Women's Reservation Bill, which mandates 33% reservation for women in legislative bodies, was already passed by the Lok Sabha in September 2023. She accused Modi of using the bill as a political tool to divert attention from the government's delimitation policies, which aim to reallocate parliamentary seats to increase representation. According to Modi, the bill's implementation is tied to the delimitation process, which involves adjusting electoral boundaries based on population data. Banerjee, however, argued that the government's proposal to expand the number of Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 816 is a deliberate attempt to dilute the bill's impact. The dispute centers on the constitutional provision under Article 334A, which requires the delimitation process to be completed before the reservation can be enforced. Banerjee pointed out that the current law mandates the implementation of the reservation only after the delimitation process is finalized, which is expected to occur by 2034. She criticized the government for delaying the implementation of the bill, despite its passage in 2023, and questioned the logic of waiting until 2034 to enforce the reservation.#mamata_banerjee #bjp #trinamool_congress #narendra_modi #delimitation_process

CRPF: A Phone Call Changed the Route of 200 Armored Vehicles, Vehicles Going from Jammu-Kashmir to Manipur Reached Bengal The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) reportedly altered the route of 200 bulletproof armored vehicles originally destined for Manipur, redirecting them to West Bengal amid preparations for the state’s legislative assembly elections. The shift, attributed to a direct phone call from Delhi, has raised questions about the logistics and security protocols involved in moving such a large convoy. The vehicles, part of the CRPF’s Marksmen armored units, were initially scheduled to travel from Jammu-Kashmir to Manipur but were rerouted to Bengal to ensure voter safety during the polls. The decision to change the route came after a controversial statement by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who claimed during a rally that 200 CRPF armored vehicles were being sent to Bengal to “attack” the state. Banerjee’s remarks, which were widely criticized by BJP leaders, prompted an urgent reassessment of the convoy’s destination. According to sources, a high-ranking Delhi official contacted CRPF authorities to redirect the vehicles to Bengal, bypassing the standard operational procedures typically required for such movements. The CRPF’s standard operating procedures (SOP) for deploying armored vehicles involve meticulous planning, including determining the number of vehicles, assigning drivers, specifying command structures, and outlining stoppages along the route. However, in this case, the rerouting was reportedly executed swiftly without formal documentation, highlighting the urgency of the situation. The vehicles were then deployed to various parts of West Bengal, with instructions to position them in Siliguri to support election security efforts.#mamata_banerjee #west_bengal #manipur #jammu_kashmir #crpf

West Bengal Governor Calls on Youth to Restore State's Lost Glory Amid Political Tensions The political landscape in West Bengal has intensified following a speech by newly appointed Governor RN Ravi, who urged the state's youth to play a pivotal role in reviving the region's lost prestige. Ravi's remarks, delivered during the Bengali New Year celebrations, sparked a wave of debate and criticism, particularly from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who accused the governor of undermining the state's interests. Ravi, a former Intelligence Bureau officer, began his address at the famous Kali Ghata Kali Mandir in Kolkata, where he performed a puja before addressing a gathering at the city's Lok Bhavan. He highlighted the historical significance of West Bengal as a hub of culture, literature, and economic prosperity, emphasizing that the state had fallen behind in recent years. "The state has lost its former glory, and it is up to every citizen to restore it," Ravi stated. He called for collective action, urging people to embrace change and take responsibility for the state's development. The governor also presented data on the decline of West Bengal's economy over the past few years, citing a contraction in the state's overall economic growth. This came amid growing concerns about the state's fiscal health and its ability to compete with other Indian states. Ravi's speech was seen as a direct challenge to the ruling party, which has faced criticism for its handling of economic policies and governance. Mamata Banerjee swiftly responded to Ravi's remarks, accusing him of hypocrisy and failing to address the state's challenges. "He should have extended well-wishes to the people of Bengal on the occasion of the New Year, but instead, he criticized me," Banerjee said.#kolkata #mamata_banerjee #west_bengal #rn_ravi #bengali_new_year

Mamata Banerjee Confronts Governor RN Ravi Over Youth Engagement Remarks The political tensions in West Bengal escalated after newly appointed Governor RN Ravi urged the state’s youth to drive change, sparking a sharp response from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Ravi’s comments, delivered during a public event in Kolkata, drew criticism for allegedly undermining the state government’s authority and casting aspersions on its governance. Banerjee accused the governor of hypocrisy and called him “Lath Sahib,” a term historically associated with British colonial rule, while accusing him of inciting unrest in the state. Ravi’s speech, held at the Lok Bhawan in Kolkata, focused on the economic decline of West Bengal. He highlighted the state’s shrinking industrial base, citing data on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which he claimed had stagnated despite national economic growth. Ravi also emphasized the need for youth engagement in revitalizing the state’s cultural and intellectual legacy, which he described as once a hub of creativity and innovation. However, his remarks were interpreted by critics as an attempt to shift blame for the state’s challenges onto the government. Banerjee swiftly dismissed Ravi’s comments as politically motivated. During a public address, she accused the governor of using his position to “incite unrest” and questioned his credibility, given his past affiliations with the ruling party. She also raised concerns about the governor’s alleged interference in state affairs, particularly in light of the Mothabadi incident—a 2023 protest that turned violent, with reports of police and protesters clashing. Banerjee claimed the incident was a result of the state government’s inability to manage dissent, a stance Ravi denied, calling it a “mischaracterization.#mamata_banerjee #west_bengal #trinamool_congress #rn_ravi #lok_bhawan

Mamata Banerjee Built Her Coalition To Be Everything To Everyone. In 2026, That Is Exactly The Problem The 2026 West Bengal election marks a pivotal moment for Mamata Banerjee, whose political dominance has long rested on a coalition that sought to appeal to every community. However, the arithmetic of her 2021 electoral success—winning 213 of 294 seats with nearly 48% of the vote—has now become a source of vulnerability. The election, set against a backdrop of shifting alliances and fractured loyalties, is not merely a contest between Banerjee and the BJP but a battle against a configuration of five simultaneous threats to her coalition. On 17 March 2026, Banerjee unveiled the list of 291 candidates for the assembly election, a move that reflected the fifteen-year political strategy of her Trinamool Congress (TMC). The list included 47 Muslim candidates, 95 SC/ST nominees, and 52 women, signaling her efforts to consolidate support across diverse demographics. Yet, the inclusion of these candidates was accompanied by the quiet removal of 74 sitting MLAs, an acknowledgment that the party’s coalition was under strain. Banerjee framed the election as a fight for Bengal’s “astitva”—its very existence—vowing that the BJP’s “Dilli ka laddu” (Delhi’s sweet) would not secure victory. The coalition’s fragility became evident in the weeks that followed. Humayun Kabir, a former TMC MLA suspended for declaring his intent to “inaugurate a Babri Masjid in Murshidabad,” formally aligned with Asaduddin Owaisi’s AIMIM. Together, they targeted 190 seats across Muslim-majority districts in Murshidabad, Malda, and Uttar Dinajpur. Though the alliance later dissolved, its formation underscored the growing fragmentation of Bengal’s Muslim vote.#mamata_banerjee #west_bengal #bjp #trinamool_congress #aimim

PM Narendra Modi's Rally in Coochbehar Sparks Speculation Over BJP's Internal Dynamics Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rally in Coochbehar, West Bengal, on Sunday drew significant attention, not only for its political implications but also for the absence of senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari. The event, which marked Modi's first public appearance in the state since the announcement of the assembly elections, highlighted the party's strategic focus on key constituencies. However, Adhikari's conspicuous absence from the rally raised questions about his role within the BJP and the party's internal power dynamics. Adhikari, a prominent figure in West Bengal's political landscape, has been a key ally of Modi in the state. His absence from the rally, which was attended by other BJP leaders including Nitin Navlani, the party's national president, sparked speculation about potential tensions within the BJP leadership. Analysts suggested that Adhikari's absence might reflect a shift in the party's strategy or internal disagreements over the handling of the West Bengal elections. The BJP's decision to exclude Adhikari from the rally was seen as a calculated move to bolster Modi's image as a unifying leader. However, it also raised concerns about the party's ability to maintain cohesion in a state where regional politics remain complex. Adhikari's absence was particularly notable given his role in mobilizing support for the BJP in key constituencies, including the coal-rich Dhanbad and Hazaribagh districts. Internal Tensions and Leadership Dynamics The incident underscored the growing tensions within the BJP's West Bengal unit. Reports indicated that Adhikari had been excluded from the rally at the behest of senior party leaders, including Amitava Chakraborty, the party's state president.#mamata_banerjee #prime_minister_narendra_modi #suvendu_adhikari #nitin_navlani #amitava_chakraborty
TMC candidates voter list uncertainty | Murder of democracy, says Mamata Banerjee after 11 TMC nominees face voter roll uncertainty Eleven candidates from the Trinamool Congress (TMC) are uncertain whether their names remain on the electoral rolls for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections. Nine of these candidates belong to minority communities, raising concerns about the fairness of the voter verification process. The issue has drawn sharp criticism from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who accused the Election Commission of selectively removing names from the voter list, calling it a "murder of democracy." Among the affected candidates are state industries minister Shashi Panja, environment minister Md Ghulam Rabbani, three-term MLA Swati Khandoker from Hooghly’s Chanditala, and Kajal Sheikh, a prominent leader from Birbhum. Three of these candidates are from Murshidabad district, where over 11 lakh voters were marked for adjudication in the final electoral rolls released on February 28. In Naoda, 29,121 voters, including TMC candidate Shahina Mumtaz, were flagged for review. Similar numbers were recorded in Lalgola and Shamshergunj, with 1,08,400 and 99,082 voters respectively under scrutiny. The Election Commission’s final rolls listed 6.44 crore voters in West Bengal, with 60.06 lakh marked for adjudication. These cases will be resolved by 705 judicial officers appointed for the process. However, the commission has yet to release the second tranche of the supplementary voter list, which is expected on Monday night. Since the first supplementary list was published, the commission has not disclosed how many voters were deleted or retained, leaving candidates and voters in limbo.#mamata_banerjee #west_bengal #trinamool_congress #election_commission #shashi_panja
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Accuses Centre of Imposing President’s Rule West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the central government of imposing an “unofficial” and “self-declared” President’s rule in the state on Friday, March 20, 2026. She claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi must hold elections in West Bengal under President’s rule, calling it a “shame” and expressing fear that the Centre’s actions, though not officially announced, signal an intent to undermine the state’s autonomy. Banerjee released her party’s manifesto for the upcoming Assembly elections, framing the polls as an opportunity to “save the country from the hands of Narendra Modi.” Banerjee reiterated her frustration over the transfer of senior state officials by the Election Commission, including the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, Director General of Police, and over a dozen District magistrates and Superintendents of Police. She questioned how officers from other states, unfamiliar with West Bengal’s language, culture, and geography, could fairly conduct elections. The transfers, she argued, were part of a broader strategy to destabilize the state. The leader also alleged that the Centre planned to “take away people’s citizenship” through the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and Census initiatives, which she claimed would target specific communities. She further accused the government of plotting to divide West Bengal by creating a separate state encompassing parts of north Bengal and Bihar, stating, “They do not want West Bengal to exist.” Banerjee expressed concerns about the delayed judicial adjudication of 60 lakh electors, warning that the process would not be completed before the elections.#mamata_banerjee #west_bengal #trinamool_congress #narendra_modi #election_commission

BJP Candidates List West Bengal Election 2026: Suvendu Adhikari to Contest Against Mamata Banerjee The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced its candidate list for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections, with Suvendu Adhikari set to contest from the Bhowanipore constituency, the home turf of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Adhikari, who previously defeated Banerjee in the 2021 Assembly polls from the Nandigram constituency, will also run from Nandigram in the 2026 elections. This marks a significant move for the BJP, as it aims to challenge the ruling Trinamool Congress in a state where the party has historically struggled to gain traction. The election process in West Bengal is expected to be conducted in two phases after a 25-year gap, with the Election Commission deploying 2,000 paramilitary companies to ensure security and prevent disruptions. The decision to split the voting process reflects the scale and complexity of the state’s electoral landscape, as well as the heightened political tensions in the region. Adhikari’s candidacy from Bhowanipore, a constituency that has been a stronghold for Banerjee, is seen as a strategic attempt by the BJP to directly confront the chief minister. His previous victory in Nandigram, where he secured a narrow margin over Banerjee, has positioned him as a key figure in the party’s campaign. Analysts suggest that the BJP’s focus on contesting from Banerjee’s constituency is part of a broader effort to undermine her political influence and rally support among voters disillusioned with the ruling party. The election is also expected to draw attention to the role of regional political dynamics, with the BJP leveraging its alliance with smaller parties and local leaders to consolidate its base.#mamata_banerjee #west_bengal #trinamool_congress #bharatiya_janata_party #suvendu_adhikari
West Bengal Election: Two-Phase Schedule Benefits Trinamool Congress, Challenges BJP The 2026 West Bengal Assembly election will be conducted in two distinct phases, scheduled for April 23 and April 29, creating a unique electoral landscape that favors the Trinamool Congress (TMC) while posing significant challenges for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The Election Commission of India’s decision to divide the state into two voting phases has led to a stark contrast in political dynamics, with each phase reflecting different levels of competition and voter alignment. The first phase, set for April 23, includes constituencies where the 2021 election results were closely contested. When the 2021 outcome is projected onto the new phase structure, the TMC is projected to secure 92 seats (60.5%) in these 152 constituencies, while the BJP would hold 59 seats (38.8%). This phase encompasses regions in northern, western, and central West Bengal, where the BJP previously expanded its influence through anti-incumbency sentiment and grassroots mobilization. The TMC’s presence here is strong but not overwhelming, creating a competitive environment that could shape the BJP’s strategy. The second phase, scheduled for April 29, presents a far more challenging scenario for the BJP. Of the 142 constituencies in this phase, the TMC is expected to dominate 123 seats (86.6%), forming a contiguous stronghold that has historically supported Mamata Banerjee’s leadership. This region, characterized by its alignment with the TMC’s welfare-driven policies and organizational strength, has remained a reliable base for the party. The BJP’s performance in this phase is projected to be limited, securing only 18 seats (12.7%) and one seat for other parties.#mamata_banerjee #west_bengal #trinamool_congress #bharatiya_janata_party #election_commission_of_india
West Bengal Announces ₹1,500 Youth Allowance under Banglar Yuva Sathi West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has introduced a monthly financial assistance of ₹1,500 for unemployed youth aged 21–40 years who have completed Class 10 education. The initiative, part of the Banglar Yuva Sathi programme, aims to support jobless individuals in achieving financial independence while they seek employment opportunities. The allowance will be disbursed starting from March 7, 2026, marking an early rollout compared to the original plan for April. This decision coincides with International Women’s Day (March 8), serving as a symbolic gesture. Eligible beneficiaries must not be receiving benefits from other government schemes, except for scholarships. The government claims that the unemployment rate in West Bengal has dropped by approximately 40% due to initiatives like Utkarsha Bangla, which focus on skill development and job creation. Additional welfare measures include support for landless farmers and employment opportunities through infrastructure and industrial growth. Officials report that around 40 lakh people have undergone skill training, with about 10 lakh already employed, and efforts are underway to connect trainees with job placements. Hurun Global Rich List 2026 Highlights India’s Wealth Growth The Hurun Global Rich List 2026, released by Hurun Research Institute, underscores India’s rapid rise as a global hub for wealth creation. The report reveals that India added 57 new billionaires in 2025–26, bringing the total to 308. This places India as the third-largest billionaire hub globally, following the United States and China. Mumbai remains the top Indian city for billionaires, hosting 95 individuals on the list.#mamata_banerjee #west_bengal #international_womens_day #banglar_yuva_sathi #utkarsha_bangla

President Murmu criticises Bengal Government for protocol failures at Darjeeling event President Droupadi Murmu expressed disappointment with the West Bengal Government for failing to follow proper protocol during her visit to an event in Darjeeling district. The President also lamented the absence of state ministers at the gathering, which she described as a personal affront. “I am also a daughter of Bengal... Mamata Didi is also my sister, my younger sister. I don’t know if she was angry with me; that’s why this happened,” Ms. Murmu said, referring to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. She emphasized that the presence of state leaders during her visits is essential, stating, “If the President visits a place, the Chief Minister and the Ministers should also come. But she did not.” The State Government had relocated the International Santhal Conference, where the President was participating, from Bidhannagar to Gossainpur in Bagdogra, citing concerns about overcrowding. Murmu criticized this decision, arguing that the original venue had sufficient space to accommodate attendees. “Had the programme been held there, it would have been better. There is ample space there, and many people could have attended,” she said. The President accused the state administration of prioritizing logistical convenience over the welfare of tribal communities. “Today’s programme is being held at such a place that it is difficult for people to come here. Perhaps the State Government does not want the welfare of tribals, and that is why they were prevented from coming here,” she added. The event was initially scheduled for Bidhannagar under Phansidewa but was moved to Gossainpur, located on the outskirts of Siliguri.#mamata_banerjee #west_bengal_government #president_droupadi_murmu #international_santhal_conference #darjeeling_district

President Murmu Criticizes West Bengal Government Ahead of Elections President Droupadi Murmu criticized the West Bengal government led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during a tribal community event in north Bengal, questioning whether development for indigenous communities was being prioritized. Murmu noted that neither Banerjee nor any of her ministers had attended to greet her during her visit, a gesture she described as disrespectful. She also raised concerns about the relocation of the International Santal Conference from Bidhannagar to Goshaipur, citing low turnout at the latter venue. Murmu accused the state administration of undermining the event, stating, “I do not know why the state administration did not allow the meeting there. There is ample space. I am also a daughter of Bengal. Mamata Banerjee is like my younger sister. I do not know whether she is upset, which is why the programme was held there (in Goshaipur). But that does not matter. All of you stay well.” She emphasized that while the central government had invested in tribal development, the Bengal administration had failed to deliver tangible progress. The President questioned whether development and facilities were reaching tribal communities, suggesting that some efforts might be obstructed. “I think some people are being stopped from coming here (to this event)... Maybe some people don’t want the Santals to unite, progress, be educated and gain strength,” she said, expressing disappointment over the perceived neglect of tribal empowerment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah echoed Murmu’s criticism, condemning the West Bengal government for its “anarchic behaviour” and “glaring disregard for protocol.#mamata_banerjee #droupadi_murmu #trinamool_congress #bidhannagar #goshaipur
West Bengal Yuva Sathi Scheme: When Will the 1,500 Rupee Funds Be Deposited? Mamata’s Announcement The West Bengal government has announced that funds under the Yuva Sathi scheme and the Kheta Mazdur program will start being disbursed to beneficiaries’ bank accounts from April 1st. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee made the announcement on March 7, 2026, stating that the money will be transferred immediately without waiting for the April 1st deadline. Mamata highlighted that the Yuva Sathi scheme, aimed at providing monthly financial assistance of 1,500 rupees to unemployed youth aged 21 to 40, will begin disbursement from the current day. She emphasized that the initiative was launched to address youth unemployment and support young people in the state. Over 90 lakh to 1 crore applications were received for the scheme, and the government has ensured that the funds will reach beneficiaries promptly. The Kheta Mazdur program, which provides financial aid to landless agricultural laborers, will also see immediate disbursement. Mamata noted that this initiative ensures that even those without land ownership receive support, as they previously did not benefit from existing agricultural subsidies. Under this program, beneficiaries will receive 4,000 rupees monthly. Mamata reiterated that the government’s focus is on reducing unemployment and encouraging youth to remain active in the workforce. She mentioned that the disbursement of funds is part of broader efforts to improve livelihoods and economic stability for marginalized groups. The announcement comes amid ongoing discussions about economic reforms and social welfare programs in the state. The government has also emphasized the importance of timely financial support to address immediate needs and foster long-term development. ---#mamata_banerjee #west_bengal #west_bengal_government #yuva_sathi_scheme #kheta_mazdur_program
