Supreme Court Committee Urges West Bengal Government to Address Dearness Allowance Payments The Supreme Court-appointed monitoring committee has directed the West Bengal government to expedite the disbursement of Dearness Allowance (DA) to approximately 64,759 government employees whose e-service records have been scanned and uploaded. The committee mandated that the first installment of DA for the period 2008-2015 must be paid by September 3, 2026, to ensure compliance with judicial directives. The directive follows a hearing on Thursday, where the committee presented its findings to the Supreme Court. The court had earlier instructed the committee to submit its report to all stakeholders, which it did. The committee emphasized that the government must prioritize resolving the DA claims for employees whose records are already updated. The financial implications of the DA payments are significant. The government is required to allocate a total of ₹11,983 crore to settle outstanding DA claims for employees from 2008 to 2019. This includes adjustments for employees whose service records were not fully updated, necessitating the digitization of their files. As of now, 64,759 employees have completed the scanning and uploading of their e-service records, while an additional 133,991 are in the process of updating their data. The committee highlighted that the government’s delayed action in updating records has caused delays in calculating accurate DA amounts. To address this, the committee urged the government to expedite the digitization process and ensure timely payment of the first installment by the stipulated deadline.#dearness_allowance #west_bengal_government #supreme_court #indu_malhotra #firuz_shami
Dilip Ghosh Announces Loan Scheme to Empower 3 Lakh Women in West Bengal Kolkata: On August 5, 2026, a joint initiative between the National Commission for Women and the West Bengal government held a program titled "Sashakt Sakhī, Samriddh Bharat" (Empowered Women, Prosperous India) in Kolkata’s Dhana Dhanya Auditorium. The event, attended by nearly 500 lakhpati didis (wealthy women) and members of self-reliant groups, aimed to strengthen women’s economic independence and rural development. National Commission for Women chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar, West Bengal Panchayat and Rural Development Minister Dilip Ghosh, and Deputy Minister Santanu Pramanik were present alongside administrators, educators, and representatives from financial institutions. Ghosh announced a 40,000 crore rupee loan scheme for self-help groups (SHGs), emphasizing the need to address corruption and ensure transparency in fund distribution. He stated that the initiative seeks to create 3 lakh new lakhpati didis, highlighting the potential of women to drive societal and regional development. "Women in West Bengal are already leading in family and community management, but their role in shaping society and the state must be recognized," Ghosh said. The minister criticized the central government for delaying women-centric projects, noting that schemes like the "Bima Sakhī Didi" (Insurance Women) initiative were not implemented in the state. However, he confirmed that such programs would now be rolled out, starting with Medinipur district where he served as a legislator. Ghosh also pledged to penalize those involved in loan fraud, stating, "Anyone who misuses funds will face legal action.#west_bengal_government #national_commission_for_women #dilip_ghosh #sashakt_sakh_samriddh_bharat #vijaya_rahatkar
State Government Plans to List Profitable Government Entities on Stock Market The West Bengal government has announced plans to list two or three profitable state-owned entities on the stock market, with the first step involving the Electricity Development Corporation. Chief Minister Shubhendu Adhikari confirmed that the process has begun, while Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta emphasized that the decision was part of a broader policy to enhance transparency and efficiency. According to the latest data from March 2021, the state oversees 58 government entities and eight autonomous bodies, of which 25 are profitable. The Electricity Development Corporation, which reported a net profit of approximately 800 crore rupees in the previous fiscal year—up from 325 crore rupees the year before—has been identified as the first candidate for listing. The government aims to gradually introduce more profitable entities to the stock market, with a focus on those under the Ministry of Electricity and Finance. The initiative includes entities such as the West Bengal Power Distribution Corporation, Hidkha, the Economic Infrastructure Development Corporation, the Industrial Development Corporation, Saraswati Press, Benfed, the Essential Commodities Supply Corporation, and the State Beverages Corporation. While the government has outlined its plan, it has not yet specified which entities will be listed first. Finance Minister Dasgupta stated that the process will be carried out in a systematic manner, ensuring that the interests of both the government and the public are protected.#west_bengal_government #swapan_dasgupta #shubhendu_adhikari #electricity_development_corporation #west_bengal_power_distribution_corporation
West Bengal Government to Review Land Use from Previous Trinamool Government The West Bengal government has decided to conduct a detailed review of the usage of land leased out during the tenure of the previous Trinamool Congress government. According to sources, the state’s Department of Land and Land Revenue will examine how the leased land was utilized, ensuring it aligns with the original intended projects. The review aims to address two primary objectives: first, to verify whether the land was used for its designated purpose or remained unused for an extended period, and second, to investigate any unauthorized use of the land for purposes other than those specified. The review process will involve assessing whether the leased land was fully or partially utilized for the projects it was allocated for. If it is found that the land was not used for its intended purpose, the government may consider reclaiming it and reallocating it to other industrial projects. Additionally, if partial use was observed, the relevant parties will be required to provide explanations regarding the project’s timeline and potential delays. In cases where the land was misused without authorization, the government may impose financial penalties or even revoke the lease. The state government has expressed concern over the significant amount of leased land that has remained unused or underutilized for years. Reports indicate that some land was allocated for specific projects but was not developed, while other instances involved the use of land for purposes outside the original agreement.#west_bengal_government #trinamool_congress #department_of_land_and_land_revenue #direct_land_purchase #industrial_projects
Bengal Govt Ends Imam Purohit Stipends, CM Suvendu Says Funds Will Go to Education and Scholarships The West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, has announced the discontinuation of religious stipends for imams and priests, redirecting the funds towards education and scholarships. This decision was made during a cabinet meeting chaired by Adhikari, who emphasized that public funds should prioritize quality education and merit-based scholarships over religious allowances. The move marks a significant shift in the state's policy, aiming to eliminate what the government terms "vote-buying" practices and focus on developmental initiatives. The cabinet approved the termination of all faith-based financial assistance programs, including the monthly stipends for imams and priests. Under the previous Mamata Banerjee administration, imams received Rs 3,000 monthly, while priests got Rs 2,000. These stipends were part of initiatives launched in 2012 for imams and 2020 for priests during the pandemic. The new policy will phase out these programs by the end of the month, with formal termination expected afterward. Adhikari stated that the funds will now be allocated to the "Vivekananda Merit Scholarship," which will benefit all students regardless of religion or political affiliation. The decision also includes the cancellation of a controversial list of newly added communities under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category, which had been challenged in the Kolkata High Court as unconstitutional. The court had previously ruled in 2024 that the list was invalid, prompting the government to scrap it.#west_bengal_government #suvendu_adhikari #imam_purohit #vivekananda_merit_scholarship #annapurna_scheme
SC में ईडी-बंगाल सरकार में तीखी बहस, सॉलिसिटर जनरल बोले- 'सूबे में कानून का राज पूरी तरह फेल' सुप्रीम कोर्ट में I-PAC रेड मामले की सुनवाई के दौरान ईडी और पश्चिम बंगाल सरकार के बीच जोरदार कानूनी जंग देखने को मिली। सॉलिसिटर जनरल तुषार मेहता ने राज्य में 'कानून के शासन' की अनुपस्थिति का आरोप लगाया, जबकि सीनियर अधिवक्ता मेनका गुरुस्वामी ने अदालती कार्यवाही के राजनीतिक इस्तेमाल पर आपत्ति जताई। सुप्रीम कोर्ट में सुनवाई शुरू होते ही माहौल गरमा गया। पश्चिम बंगाल सरकार की तरफ से पेश सीनियर एडवोकेट मेनका गुरुस्वामी ने आरोप लगाया कि अदालती कार्यवाही को सोशल मीडिया पर एक राजनीतिक दल द्वारा चुनाव प्रचार के हथियार के रूप में इस्तेमाल किया जा रहा है। उन्होंने सॉलिसिटर जनरल (SG) तुषार मेहता के लहजे पर भी आपत्ति जताई। जवाब में SG मेहता ने कहा कि वह किसी के इशारे पर राजनीतिक नहीं बल्कि तथ्यों पर आधारित कानूनी दलीलें दे रहे हैं। उन्होंने कोर्ट से कहा कि पश्चिम बंगाल में एक खास पैटर्न के तहत जांच को बाधित किया जा रहा है और बाबासाहेब अंबेडकर ने कभी ऐसी स्थिति की कल्पना भी नहीं की होगी। सॉलिसिटर जनरल तुषार मेहता ने कोर्ट को बताया कि 8 जनवरी 2026 को कोयला तस्करी मामले की जांच के दौरान 10 ठिकानों पर छापेमारी की गई थी, जिसमें प्रतीक जैन का आवास भी शामिल था। ED का आरोप है कि अवैध कोयला खनन से मिले 20 करोड़ रुपये की 'प्रोसीड्स ऑफ क्राइम' को हवाला के जरिए I-PAC को ट्रांसफर किया गया था। SG मेहता ने सनसनीखेज दावा किया कि छापेमारी के दौरान मुख्यमंत्री ममता बनर्जी खुद सैकड़ों पुलिस अधिकारियों के साथ दोपहर 12:40 बजे परिसर में घुस गईं। उन्होंने आरोप लगाया कि मुख्यमंत्री ने ED अधिकारियों से जबरन डिजिटल डिवाइस और दस्तावेज छीन लिए और कंप्यूटर सिस्टम का बैकअप रोक दिया। सुनवाई के दौरान SG मेहता ने राज्य के पुलिस महानिदेशक (DGP) और पुलिस कमिश्नर की मौजूदगी पर कड़े सवाल किए। उन्होंने कहा कि जब मुख्यमंत्री वहां पहुंचीं, तो DGP और कमिश्नर उनके साथ ऐसे खड़े थे जैसे वे उनके 'निजी सुरक्षा अधिकारी' हों। राज्य सरकार के उस हलफनामे पर भी तंज कसा गया, जि...#west_bengal_government #supreme_court #ed #menaka_guruswami #tushar_mehtha
Supreme Court Criticizes West Bengal Government Over Malda Incident The Supreme Court on April 6, 2026, sharply criticized the West Bengal government for its handling of a violent incident in Malda, where judicial officers faced harassment and threats. During a hearing, the court directly questioned the chief secretary, asking, "Why aren’t you answering the phone?" The court’s intervention followed allegations of systemic negligence and failure to protect judicial personnel. The incident in Malda involved multiple cases of intimidation and physical assaults on judges and legal officials. According to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), 11 FIRs have been registered so far, with three specifically linked to threats and attacks on judicial officers. One FIR pertains to a female judge who was allegedly prevented from attending a court event, while another involves a male judicial officer who was reportedly threatened. A third FIR details the harassment of a female administrative officer. Additionally, nine other FIRs were filed for alleged roadblocks and local police negligence, bringing the total to 11 cases under investigation. The NIA revealed that 24 individuals have been arrested in connection with the incidents, and 309 suspects have been identified. The agency has requested the analysis of call detail records (CDRs) for 432 individuals to trace potential links to the violence. The court mandated that the state police immediately transfer all case files and records to the NIA, which has been granted authority to investigate all 12 cases. The Supreme Court emphasized that the attacks on judicial officers were "extremely grave" and ordered the state government to ensure the safety of legal personnel.#chief_secretary #west_bengal_government #supreme_court #national_investigation_agency #malda_incident
West Bengal Government Announces 4% DA Hike for Government Employees Amid Legal Pressure In a significant development, the West Bengal government announced a 4% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for government employees, effective from April 1, 2026. This decision comes amid mounting pressure from the Supreme Court, which had earlier mandated a 25% DA hike for all employees, with the remaining 75% to be fulfilled by March 31. The government’s move aims to address the legal directive while navigating administrative complexities. Supreme Court Directive and Government Response In February 2025, the Supreme Court directed the state government to provide a 25% DA hike to all employees, including those in the public sector. The court emphasized that the remaining 75% must be implemented by March 31, 2025. However, the government faced challenges in meeting this deadline, citing delays in verifying service records for employees hired before 2016. To comply with the court’s order, the state government submitted a fresh petition to the Supreme Court, explaining that the 25% hike could not be implemented immediately due to administrative hurdles. The court, however, reiterated its stance, urging the government to prioritize the welfare of employees. Confusion Over DA Hike and Budget Adjustments The confusion deepened with the release of the 2026 budget, which included an additional 4% DA hike for government employees. This brought the total DA to 22%, surpassing the initial 18% proposed. While the government framed this as fulfilling the Supreme Court’s directive, critics argue that the timing and methodology of the hike remain unclear.#west_bengal_government #trinamool_congress #supreme_court #bikash_ranjan_bhattacharya #2026_budget
Letters to The Editor — March 10, 2026 The Prime Minister’s recent remarks about the alleged shortcomings of the West Bengal government in organizing the International Santal Conference have sparked debate. The comments, reportedly made during election speeches, followed President Droupadi Murmu’s expressed disappointment over the arrangements for her visit. Critics argue that the Prime Minister’s focus on this issue raises questions about the adequacy of advance notice provided to the West Bengal government. Additionally, concerns have been raised about protocol breaches involving sudden changes in the appointment of Governors in certain states, with doubts about whether Chief Ministers were sufficiently informed or consulted. These incidents are seen as indicative of growing tensions between the central government and state administrations within an increasingly fragmented federal structure. The West Bengal government’s response to the criticism has been met with skepticism. Given the symbolic importance of the President’s role, the circumstances surrounding the arrangements for her visit warrant thorough examination. The lack of clarity about the government’s preparedness has prompted calls for a detailed explanation of the events. The recent increase in LPG prices has caused distress for households, but broader economic factors must also be considered. Tensions in West Asia have disrupted global supply chains, and India’s reliance on imported LPG has made it vulnerable to price fluctuations. While the price hike is unwelcome, analysts note that the adjustment remains relatively modest compared to the scale of international disruptions. Domestic supply chains, however, have remained stable, ensuring uninterrupted access to essential fuel.#prime_minister #west_bengal_government #droupadi_murmu #international_santal_conference #lpg_prices
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
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
