Kolkata news - NewsLocker

Bengal assembly election: Suvendu Adhikari hits the street in CM lair, vows to defeat Mamata Banerjee by 25,000 votes

20-03-2026 11:01 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari launched his Bhowanipore campaign by filing a complaint over alleged attacks on BJP workers. He expressed confidence in defeating Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee by over 25,000 votes, citing alleged appeasement politics and lack of development. Trinamool dismissed his claims as farcical.

West Bengal elections: Left Front names 32 more candidates, key netas not on list

20-03-2026 10:07 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The Left Front unveiled its second list of candidates for 32 seats, notably excluding prominent figures like Mohammad Salim and Sujan Chakraborty, sparking election absence speculation.With 234 out of 294 seats now declared, key contests include Shanti Giri in Nandigram and a lawyer challenging Mamata Banerjee and Suvendu Adhikari in Bhowanipore.Seat-sharing talks continue for remaining constituencies.

Kolkata man dies after being trapped in lift at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital

20-03-2026 08:33 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

A man in his early 40s tragically died after becoming trapped in a malfunctioning lift at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. He was at the hospital with his son when the elevator stopped at the trauma care unit. His family alleges no lift operator was present. An investigation is underway.

IIT Kharagpur revokes permission to feed stray dogs on campus

20-03-2026 03:27 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

IIT Kharagpur has stopped feeding stray dogs on campus. This decision has led to protests from animal lovers. The institute cited safety concerns and dog bite incidents. Previously, feeding was prohibited inside hostels. Animal welfare groups argue this will create behavioral issues among the dogs. They are demanding the order be revoked.

‘Smuggling’ lens on 5-fold spike in auto LPG demand in Kolkata over 10 days

20-03-2026 03:03 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Auto LPG sales in Kolkata have surged nearly five-fold in ten days, raising suspicions of illegal diversion to commercial establishments facing supply shortages. This spike follows a government order suspending new LPG bookings for non-priority sectors due to the West Asia war, impacting both auto drivers and food businesses.

RG Kar victim’s mother seeks BJP ticket from Panihati, faces ‘Reclaim the Night’ backlash

19-03-2026 20:33 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The mother of an RG Kar victim announced her intention to contest assembly elections as a BJP candidate from Panihati, seeking justice for her daughter and advocating for women's safety. This decision has drawn sharp criticism from 'Reclaim the Night' protesters, who deem it an unfortunate choice given the BJP's past actions.

Bengal polls: RG Kar victim’s mother seeks BJP ticket from Panihati, faces ‘Reclaim the Night’ backlash

19-03-2026 20:33 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The mother of an RG Kar victim announced her intention to contest assembly elections as a BJP candidate from Panihati, seeking justice for her daughter and advocating for women's safety. This decision has drawn sharp criticism from 'Reclaim the Night' protesters, who deem it an unfortunate choice given the BJP's past actions.

‘Deeply religious’ Vijay Upadhyay is Trinamool’s ‘surprise pick’ in trading hub Jorasanko

19-03-2026 09:14 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Trinamool strategically fields two-time councillor Vijay Upadhyay from Jorasanko, replacing sitting MLA Vivek Gupta. Leaders believe Upadhyay's community acceptance and religious but moderate image can counter BJP's gains among traders and Hindi-speaking voters. He aims to bridge communities and assures the influential business base of safety, predicting a significant win for Trinamool.

Bengal polls: EC directs Kolkata Police to use central forces

19-03-2026 08:12 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The Election Commission has instructed West Bengal's top police officials to deploy central forces immediately in any area experiencing deteriorating law and order. In a review meeting, officials emphasized that central forces are meant for rapid deployment, not static stationing. The EC also met with telecom providers to ensure seamless connectivity for webcasting from all polling booths.

'Political' films add a dash of glamour to West Bengal polls, focus on personalised tales

19-03-2026 06:32 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

This year's Bengali cinema features a surge of political films exploring diverse themes. From Hindutva ideology and student activism to revolutionary journeys and exposes of past regimes, these movies delve into societal issues, individual psychology, and historical events, sparking conversations about resistance, accountability, and the complexities of power.

West Bengal polls: TMC sets in motion a generational shift; only 1 of 4 on candidates’ list a senior citizen

19-03-2026 03:01 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Trinamool Congress has significantly reduced its senior citizen candidates to 25% for the assembly polls, a shift from 42.4% in 2021, signaling a generational change. While retaining experienced leaders in key roles, the party has introduced many younger faces, including professionals and second-generation politicians, to revitalize its electoral strategy.

West Bengal shocker: Husband kills 6-month pregnant wife, wraps body in plastic and hides it under bed

19-03-2026 00:59 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

A 24-year-old pregnant woman was allegedly murdered by her husband in Sodepur after she refused to meet his monetary demands. Her body was found wrapped in plastic and hidden under a bed. The husband, mother-in-law, and another family member have been arrested in connection with the incident.

West Bengal shocker: 6-month pregnant woman killed, body wrapped in plastic and hidden under bed; husband held

19-03-2026 00:59 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

A 24-year-old pregnant woman was allegedly murdered by her husband in Sodepur after she refused to meet his monetary demands. Her body was found wrapped in plastic and hidden under a bed. The husband, mother-in-law, and another family member have been arrested in connection with the incident.

West Bengal election: Bhowanipore sees early campaign blitz for high-stakes political fight

18-03-2026 23:09 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The Bhowanipore constituency is set for a fierce electoral battle as Mamata Banerjee faces Suvendu Adhikari. Both parties are actively campaigning, with the Trinamool Congress re-strategizing after a significant number of voters were struck off the rolls. The BJP is focusing on direct voter outreach and temple visits.

2nd cop reshuffle in 24 hours; EC 'playing game' to help BJP, says CM Mamata Banerjee

18-03-2026 05:54 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The Election Commission ordered a significant reshuffle of senior police officials in Bengal, transferring 12 superintendents and four commissioners. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the EC of acting on behalf of the BJP, alleging the moves were designed to facilitate illicit activities. She questioned the timing and competence of the replacements, warning of potential law and order issues.

EC moves former Bengal home secretary J P Meena to Tamil Nadu as poll observer

18-03-2026 05:18 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Former Bengal Home Secretary J.P. Meena has been appointed as an observer by the Election Commission for the Tiruchirappalli (West) assembly constituency in Tamil Nadu. This move, seen as an "unprecedented" decision by a former IAS officer, comes after Meena's replacement in West Bengal. The EC cited his batch year and rank as eligibility for the observer duty.

At 478, EC appoints max observers for Bengal among poll-bound states

18-03-2026 05:18 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The Election Commission has deployed a record 478 observers for Bengal's assembly elections, exceeding previous deployments. This significant increase across general, police, and expenditure categories aims to ensure free, fair, and peaceful polls. Observers will be stationed in constituencies by Wednesday, making their contact details public for citizen outreach.

Mamata Banerjee vs Suvendu Adhikari 2.0: High-stakes West Bengal fight shifts from Nandigram to Bhowanipore

18-03-2026 03:55 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Mamata Banerjee will re-contest from Bhowanipore, her home turf, against Suvendu Adhikari, who is also contesting from Nandigram. Banerjee expressed confidence in a significant victory, highlighting her commitment to the constituency. The constituency's demographic profile and a significant number of Muslim voters flagged as 'under adjudication' could impact the election outcome.

West Bengal polls: Mamata Banerjee vs Suvendu Adhikari in Bhabanipur, TMC bets on mix of old guard, fresh faces; drops 74 incumbent MLAs

18-03-2026 02:52 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Trinamool Congress announced its 291 candidates for the upcoming assembly elections, with Mamata Banerjee contesting from Bhowanipore. The party aims for 226 seats, urging opposition parties to unite against the BJP. While retaining many old guards, 74 incumbent MLAs were dropped, making way for new faces and youth.

CM Mamata Banerjee keeps home seat Bhowanipore. Asks opposition to ‘vote for Bengal, TMC’

18-03-2026 02:52 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Trinamool Congress announced its 291 candidates for the upcoming assembly elections, with Mamata Banerjee contesting from Bhowanipore. The party aims for 226 seats, urging opposition parties to unite against the BJP. While retaining many old guards, 74 incumbent MLAs were dropped, making way for new faces and youth.

Big names out, new faces in: TMC drops 74 sitting MLAs, reshuffles candidates across West Bengal; 135 retained

17-03-2026 22:05 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Trinamool Congress dropped 74 MLAs and shifted 15 in its candidate list, retaining 135 out of 209 sitting legislators. This significant reshuffle aims to counter anti-incumbency, with party surveys indicating declining popularity of some sitting MLAs. The BJP also dropped at least eight MLAs from its first list of candidates.

April 9 cut-off tension for 3.6 lakh Kolkata voters

17-03-2026 11:14 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Around 3.6 lakh voters in Kolkata face uncertainty as their electoral status remains under judicial scrutiny, with a supplementary roll due by April 9. Many voters, despite submitting documents and attending hearings, are still awaiting clearance for the upcoming Bengal assembly elections. This situation affects a significant portion of the 60 lakh electors across Bengal placed under adjudication.

Kolkata doctors remove brain tumour from Dutch tourist misdiagnosed abroad

17-03-2026 09:33 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

A 36-year-old Dutch man's persistent headaches and vomiting, initially dismissed as weather-related in the Netherlands, were diagnosed in Kolkata as a brain tumor. Doctors at C K Birla Hospitals, CMRI, successfully operated on the patient, removing the tumor lodged at a critical junction of his brainstem and cerebellum, and he made a full recovery.

West Bengal poll: ‘Temple Man’ may boycott vote as kin names missing from list

17-03-2026 07:07 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

A septuagenarian, honored for preserving Hindu temples and promoting harmony, threatened to boycott polls after his son and two daughters' names were excluded from the voter list. Despite submitting all necessary documents and attending hearings, their names remained under adjudication. He vowed his entire family would abstain from voting if their names aren't reinstated.

After poll dates, EC rejigs Bengal’s bureaucracy and top cops; chief secretary, DGP among those replaced

17-03-2026 04:42 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Following the announcement of assembly poll dates, the Election Commission initiated a significant overhaul of Bengal's top bureaucracy and police leadership. Key officials, including the chief secretary, home secretary, director-general of police, and Kolkata Police commissioner, were replaced. The EC barred the transferred officers from any poll-related duties, citing a review of preparedness.

West Bengal assembly elections: Four RG Kar rape-murder protest faces on CPM’s first list of candidates

16-03-2026 20:51 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Four prominent Left leaders, including Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya and Dipsita Dhar, have been fielded for assembly elections, with their candidatures linked to their roles in the 2024 RG Kar rape and murder case protests. The party also announced Sabina Yasmin, mother of a bomb blast victim, as a candidate.

BJP counters TMC largesse with Annapurna Yojana, Rs 5.7k cr package

16-03-2026 10:39 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Bengal BJP President Samik Bhattacharya unveiled poll promises including Rs 3,000 monthly for women under Annapurna Yojana and implementation of the 7th Pay Commission. He emphasized rapid industrialization, job creation, and fair land acquisition for farmers, promising to establish the rule of law and an inclusive government.

Bengal elections 2026: High-stakes contest between Mamata Banerjee, her lieutenant and rival Suvendu Adhikari

16-03-2026 08:29 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee navigates political anxieties by embracing a combative street-fighting persona, effectively countering anti-incumbency. Her strategy, amplified by Abhishek Banerjee's organizational prowess and Suvendu Adhikari's opposition leadership, positions the 2026 election as a crucial test for both state and national politics.

West Bengal elections: Chief secretary, home secretary removed, Ajay Kumar Nand appointed Kolkata top cop; TMC fumes

16-03-2026 08:06 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Ahead of the West Bengal assembly elections, the Election Commission has removed Chief Secretary Nandini Chakravorty and Home Secretary Jagdish Prasad Meena. Dushyant Nariala has been appointed as the new chief secretary, and Sanghamitra Ghosh as principal secretary of Home and Hill Affairs. Ajay Kumar Nand is the new Kolkata police commissioner.

West Bengal elections 2026: SIR-charged state sets stage for old rivals, new contest

16-03-2026 06:58 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Bengal's 2026 elections present unprecedented challenges, driven by a Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, the global impact of a distant war on household budgets, and a late change in the Raj Bhavan. These factors are creating a highly unpredictable contest, potentially altering the political landscape regardless of the final outcome.

Bengal polls: CM Mamata Banerjee announces Rs 10,000 crore DA arrears, hike for purohits, muezzins

16-03-2026 02:24 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Just before the election code of conduct took effect, West Bengal's Chief Minister announced a Rs 10,000 crore DA arrears payment to state employees and pensioners, starting March 2026. Additionally, monthly honorariums for priests and muezzins were raised by Rs 500 to Rs 2,000. The Election Commission stated these policy decisions did not violate the code.

SIR, West Asia war may queer Bengal poll pitch

16-03-2026 02:00 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Bengal's 2026 elections present unprecedented challenges, driven by the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, the global impact of a distant war on fuel prices, and an eleventh-hour change in the Raj Bhavan. These factors are creating a complex and unpredictable electoral landscape, making it difficult for political analysts to decipher the potential outcomes.

West Bengal assembly election: Voting in 2 phases on April 23 and 29, result on May 4

16-03-2026 01:40 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Bengal's assembly elections will be held in two phases on April 23 and 29, the fewest since 2001. The Election Commission cited convenience for the reduction, assuring free and fair polling. Results for the 294 seats will be declared on May 4.

Fresh faces on Kolkata poll roll: Metiabruz, Jadavpur, Kasba lead new voters

16-03-2026 00:32 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Young voters in Kolkata are counting down to their first election. Many are excited to cast their ballots and contribute to the nation's future. New additions to the electoral roll are significant in areas like Metiabruz and Jadavpur. These first-time voters are keen to participate in the democratic process and make their voices heard.

West Bengal BLOs breathe easy as poll dates are announced

16-03-2026 00:29 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Booth Level Officers (BLOs) in West Bengal, many of whom are school teachers, expressed relief following the announcement of polling dates. The intensive process, involving field visits, paperwork, and document uploads, significantly impacted their personal lives and the school education system.

West Bengal polls: Many voters alter home visit calendar to cast votes

15-03-2026 19:25 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Youngsters studying and working outside Kolkata are returning home to cast their votes, many for the first time. Motivated by the intensive revision of electoral rolls and calls from BLOs, these individuals are prioritizing their right to franchise, altering travel plans and taking leave to participate in the democratic process.

Bengal elections 2026: Lakshmir Bhandar, Yuva Sathi, DA give TMC winning edge

15-03-2026 18:54 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee announced DA arrears payout for state employees and increased honorariums for imams and muezzins. These moves aim to counter potential fallout from the SIR phase before the upcoming elections. The Trinamool Congress expresses confidence in securing a fourth term, banking on cash transfer schemes to win over voters.

West Bengal polls 2026: Congress warns EC delay may block voters, candidates

15-03-2026 18:53 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The Pradesh Congress warns that the Election Commission risks disenfranchising voters and candidates if the final supplementary voter list isn't published before elections. Leaders expressed concern over unresolved adjudicated cases, fearing genuine voters and aspirants might be excluded. They are seeking Supreme Court intervention to ensure a fair electoral process.

West Bengal elections: CPM seeks SC intervention over missing voters

15-03-2026 18:38 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The CPM plans to approach the Supreme Court against the potential disenfranchisement of voters on the adjudicated list during the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bengal. Citing the threat to democratic rights for various communities, the party will add this issue to its existing petition, vowing to fight on streets, booths, and in court.

After SIR change, depleted Kolkata to vote on April 29

15-03-2026 17:24 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Kolkata's voter rolls have seen significant reductions, impacting various demographics and raising concerns about inclusivity.Large numbers of single male migrants and Chinese community members have been removed.Analysis suggests potential disenfranchisement of Muslim and women voters, core bases for the TMC, due to the voter revision process.

Bengal election 2026: Judicial scrutiny divides voters into haves and have-nots

15-03-2026 17:20 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Thousands of Kolkata's electors face uncertainty as poll dates are announced, with their voting rights pending judicial adjudication. Prominent figures like Richa Ghosh and Mehtab Hossain are among those affected. While judicial officers have cleared many cases, a supplementary list's publication remains unclear, leaving voters in limbo.

'Drama queen': BJP leader Dilip Ghosh slams minister Shashi Panja after BJP-TMC clash in Kolkata

15-03-2026 05:47 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

BJP leader Dilip Ghosh labelled West Bengal minister Shashi Panja a "drama queen" after clashes between BJP and TMC workers in Kolkata. Ghosh alleged Panja's supporters were beaten, while Panja accused BJP workers of attacking TMC supporters and her residence. Police arrested four individuals amid the violence, which injured several party workers and eight police personnel.

On way to PM Narendra Modi’s rally, BJP workers target Bengal minister Shashi Panja’s Girish Park residence

15-03-2026 02:08 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

State minister Shashi Panja sustained injuries when BJP supporters en route to PM Modi's rally allegedly attacked her Kolkata home. The incident saw clashes between Trinamool and BJP workers, with police also injured. Panja accused BJP of violence, while the party claimed their buses were stoned first. The Election Commission has sought a report.

Relief for booking home LPG as oil cos restore online & phone-based systems

14-03-2026 16:56 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

LPG booking systems are back online after a crash, bringing relief to thousands. Oil companies expanded infrastructure, adding new call centers to handle the surge in consumer calls. This restoration eased pressure on distributors and ended days of anxiety for households relying on gas for cooking. The crisis highlighted the importance of a stable booking system.

Scientific ‘Fingerprinting’ to authenticate Bengal Masters debuts in Kolkata exhibition

14-03-2026 10:10 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Kolkata's Chitrakoot Art Gallery is showcasing 23 authenticated masterpieces by Bengal masters, verified using Raman Fingerprint Technology (RaFiTech). Developed with IISER Kolkata, this non-invasive scientific method analyzes unique pigment molecular signatures to combat art forgery and restore collector confidence.

IDSK launches Rabindranath Tagore Centre for Climate Change and Sustainable Development

14-03-2026 09:19 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The Institute of Development Studies Kolkata (IDSK) has launched the Rabindranath Tagore Centre for Climate Change and Sustainable Development to address climate challenges in eastern and northeastern India. The centre will focus on research, awareness, and policy recommendations, collaborating with various stakeholders to advance climate action.

Diesel stoves vanish like hot cakes in Kolkata as LPG crisis sparks rush for alternatives

14-03-2026 06:09 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Kolkata is witnessing a surge in demand for diesel stoves and traditional cooking alternatives due to an LPG crisis. Shops report zero supply despite overwhelming inquiries, with prices skyrocketing. Businesses and religious organizations are desperately seeking replacements to maintain operations, with some now considering induction ovens.

Sweet but a very serious business: The confectionery queens of Kolkata

14-03-2026 01:30 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Kolkata's sweet cravings are changing. New bakeries are offering diverse desserts, moving beyond classic mishti. Many of these ventures are led by women. They started from home kitchens or inherited family businesses. These bakers are adding new layers to the city's dessert culture. Building a bakery here requires resilience and offers rewarding success.

Women, kids among 40 trapped inside dilapidated building as new owner razes stairs in Kolkata

13-03-2026 21:34 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Around 40 residents were trapped in a dilapidated Kolkata building after the staircase was allegedly razed by the new owner. Emergency services used ladders to rescue many, including women and children, from the building slated for real-estate development. The mayor assured tenant protection, while residents expressed concerns about displacement.

'Strain family's financial resources': Irked over charity spend, couple kills mother in Bengal, dumps body in sack

13-03-2026 21:29 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

A shocking incident unfolded in Howrah where a son and his wife were arrested for allegedly murdering his 62-year-old mother. The victim's body was discovered in a sack. The son confessed to the crime, citing his mother's extensive charitable activities as a financial strain. He claimed his wife was also mistreated by the victim, leading to the brutal act.