News for 'kolkata politics'

Bengal's mid-day meal shift sparks fresh egg vs veg debate

Bengal's mid-day meal shift sparks fresh egg vs veg debate

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

The move has sparked a political row, with the opposition accusing the BJP of promoting a vegetarian agenda.

How CJI's cockroach remark led to youth movement that claimed a minister

How CJI's cockroach remark led to youth movement that claimed a minister

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

A derogatory 'cockroach' remark by Chief Justice Surya Kant during a Supreme Court hearing inadvertently sparked a nationwide student movement, transforming an insult into a powerful symbol of protest that led to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.

Mamata rushes to Abhishek's house as cops raid at dawn

Mamata rushes to Abhishek's house as cops raid at dawn

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee's Kolkata residence was raided by police and central forces for over four hours in connection with a financial fraud case, targeting his close aide Sumit Roy, whose mobile phone was last traced to the property.

'We are Not traitors': Amid split, TMC readies for July 21 rally

'We are Not traitors': Amid split, TMC readies for July 21 rally

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

The TMC's July 21 Shahid Diwas rally is expected to serve as a crucial test of party unity and organisational strength amid defections and an internal rebellion.

Moments That Defined 2026 World Cup

Moments That Defined 2026 World Cup

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

From Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to Cape Verde's fairytale run, VAR controversies and unforgettable fan moments, relive the memories that made the 2026 FIFA World Cup the biggest and most dramatic tournament in history.

After revolt, Mamata, Abhishek return to grassroots, cuts I-PAC role

After revolt, Mamata, Abhishek return to grassroots, cuts I-PAC role

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Facing a massive rebellion of MLAs and MPs after its defeat in the West Bengal assembly polls, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has begun an organisational reset, with sources saying the focus is on top leaders increasing direct engagement with workers and reducing dependence on political-consultancy firm I-PAC.

Banerjee Orders Arrests Over Leaflet Distribution at Kolkata Protest

Banerjee Orders Arrests Over Leaflet Distribution at Kolkata Protest

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of distributing leaflets at her sit-in protest in Kolkata, leading to the detention of two individuals. Banerjee alleges the BJP is attempting to undermine her protest against the SIR exercise.

BJP Must Be Wary About Inducting Fleeing TMC Leaders

BJP Must Be Wary About Inducting Fleeing TMC Leaders

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Both the political executive in New Delhi and the newly elected political dispensation in Kolkata must be careful to ensure that their image is not tarnished by induction of undesirable elements in the name of political expediency, asserts Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (retd).

Fresh blow to Mamata: TMC's Rs 675-cr war chest becomes new battleground

Fresh blow to Mamata: TMC's Rs 675-cr war chest becomes new battleground

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

The internecine war within the Trinamool Congress took a new turn on Thursday with "party treasurer" Aroop Biswas writing to a bank seeking restrictions on the operation of the party's accounts, citing uncertainty over its legitimate leadership amid rebellions by MLAs and MPs.

How fish has become a political storm in Bengal elections

How fish has become a political storm in Bengal elections

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

In West Bengal's assembly elections, fish has become a potent symbol of Bengali identity, with the Trinamool Congress and BJP clashing over food habits and cultural representation.

TMC crisis deepens, Mamata camp files fresh police complaints against rebels

TMC crisis deepens, Mamata camp files fresh police complaints against rebels

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

The Mamata Banerjee-led faction of the Trinamool Congress has filed fresh police complaints against dissident leader Ritabrata Banerjee and his associates. The complaints accuse the rebels of illegally using the party's name, symbol, and designations to mislead workers, marking a significant escalation in the month-long internal struggle following the assembly poll defeat.

Quit Before July 21: Mamata Tells Rebels

Quit Before July 21: Mamata Tells Rebels

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

'Those under pressure from the BJP and the police, or due to court cases, the ED, CBI, CID, local police officers, or the STF, I request that you make your decision before July 21.'

TMC crisis deepens as Sudip Bandyopadhyay meets BJP leaders

TMC crisis deepens as Sudip Bandyopadhyay meets BJP leaders

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Senior Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay's meeting with Union Minister Bhupender Yadav and allegedly with Home Minister Amit Shah has ignited fresh political speculation about his potential defection and the formation of a dissident parliamentary faction, further deepening the turmoil within the Mamata Banerjee-led party.

Amid TMC split, LS speaker gave Abhishek Banerjee just 2-hour notice

Amid TMC split, LS speaker gave Abhishek Banerjee just 2-hour notice

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will hear both the defected TMC MPs and the faction led by Mamata Banerjee before deciding on recognising the breakaway group's proposed merger with the Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI).

Police Raid Abhishek Banerjee's Residence In Financial Fraud Probe

Police Raid Abhishek Banerjee's Residence In Financial Fraud Probe

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

West Bengal police, supported by central forces, conducted a four-hour predawn raid on TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee's Kolkata residence in connection with a financial fraud case involving his aide, Sumit Roy. The operation, which Banerjee claims involved forced entry, has been denounced by the TMC as "political vendetta" and comes as Banerjee faces multiple investigations from various agencies, further escalating political tensions in the state.

Mamata reaches out to Cong, CPI-M for anti-BJP front

Mamata reaches out to Cong, CPI-M for anti-BJP front

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee has urged the Congress and CPI(M) to set aside their differences and unite under the INDIA bloc to fight the BJP in West Bengal. This marks a significant shift in the TMC's stance, which has historically been a bitter rival to the Congress and Left in the state.

They are not worried of Wangchuk's health...: Oppn slams govt

They are not worried of Wangchuk's health...: Oppn slams govt

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Opposition leaders across party lines have condemned the forced removal of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk from the Jantar Mantar protest site in Delhi, accusing the BJP-led central government of undermining democratic freedoms, curbing dissent, and choosing force over dialogue.

FIR against Mamata Banerjee for 'provocative remarks'

FIR against Mamata Banerjee for 'provocative remarks'

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

An FIR has been registered against former West Bengal chief minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee for allegedly making provocative remarks during the last assembly poll campaign, with a complaint stating her comments were 'capable of promoting enmity between communities'.

Bengali Filmmaker Anik Dutta Passes Away After Tragic Fall

Bengali Filmmaker Anik Dutta Passes Away After Tragic Fall

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Bengali filmmaker Anik Dutta, celebrated for his unique blend of political and social satire in films like Bhooter Bhabishyat, has tragically died after allegedly falling from his Kolkata residence, prompting an ongoing police investigation.

Thank You For Reminding Us Courage Never Goes Out Of Fashion

Thank You For Reminding Us Courage Never Goes Out Of Fashion

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

You blurred the line between online and offline activism until supporting a cause became part of everyday culture. And something remarkable happened.
People who weren't participating didn't just disagree. Many felt they were missing out on being part of an important moment.

In historic revolt, TMC rebels oust Mamata as chairperson, install Arup Roy

In historic revolt, TMC rebels oust Mamata as chairperson, install Arup Roy

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

In a bid to wrest control of the Trinamool Congress, its rebel faction led by Leader of the Opposition Ritabrata Banerjee on Monday elected MLA Arup Roy as chairperson, marking the sharpest challenge yet to the authority of party founder Mamata Banerjee.

Man dies in RG Kar hospital lift; political blame game begins

Man dies in RG Kar hospital lift; political blame game begins

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

A man died after becoming trapped in a lift at a Kolkata hospital, leading to accusations of negligence and corruption against the state government.

Nitin Nabin Criticises Mamata Banerjee's Focus on Politics Over Sports in West Bengal

Nitin Nabin Criticises Mamata Banerjee's Focus on Politics Over Sports in West Bengal

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

BJP National President Nitin Nabin has criticised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for allegedly prioritising political games over sports and cultural activities, leading to the state's decline in these areas. He also accused the TMC government of using sports clubs for political purposes.

Confusion over Abhishek's hospitalisation as doctors term injuries superficial

Confusion over Abhishek's hospitalisation as doctors term injuries superficial

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Confusion arose regarding the hospitalisation of TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee after he complained of pain following an alleged attack. Despite initial reports suggesting superficial injuries, Banerjee was admitted to the ICU, leading to allegations of political interference in his medical treatment.

'Without A Shade Of Doubt BJP Is Behind This'

'Without A Shade Of Doubt BJP Is Behind This'

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

'It was done with record speed. First, a revolt of the MLAs, which was obviously engineered.' ''No one believed me when I said the MLAs breaking away is not the real issue.' 'It is like a comet. The head doesn't matter, the tail matters.' 'And the tail is Parliament. Suvendu has gifted the prime minister 20 MPs.'

Mamata Banerjee Vows To Protest Despite Police Obstruction

Mamata Banerjee Vows To Protest Despite Police Obstruction

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has declared that the TMC will proceed with its planned sit-in protest against alleged attacks on party leaders and workers, as well as the Railways' hawker eviction drive, despite the police denying permission for the event.

Chaos at Messi's Kolkata event sparks political slugfest

Chaos at Messi's Kolkata event sparks political slugfest

Rediff.com13 Dec 2025

Political parties in West Bengal, including the ruling TMC and opposition BJP, have condemned the organizers of an event featuring Lionel Messi in Kolkata after it descended into chaos due to spectators' inability to properly view the football star. Demands for action and accountability have been made.

HC appoints special officer to manage TMC's frozen bank accounts

HC appoints special officer to manage TMC's frozen bank accounts

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The Calcutta High Court has appointed a retired judge as a special officer to manage the day-to-day expenses of the Mamata Banerjee-aligned Trinamool Congress (TMC) from three debit-frozen bank accounts. The accounts were frozen following a complaint by a rival TMC faction alleging they held proceeds of crime. The court allowed transactions for party expenses and legal costs, noting that the initial freezing lacked specific material basis and that the complainant had previously benefited from these accounts.

Speaker Om Birla to decide fate of rebel TMC bloc as NCPI eyes major LS leap

Speaker Om Birla to decide fate of rebel TMC bloc as NCPI eyes major LS leap

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

The Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI) has named Jyotiprakash Chatterji as its new president, a development that follows the merger of a Trinamool Congress (TMC) rebel Lok Sabha faction with the party. This announcement by Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, a key figure in the dissident camp, comes amidst speculation about the party's leadership after its founder stepped down. However, details about Chatterji and the party's internal workings remain unclear, with some existing members expressing unawareness of the change.

Mamata's 'Girgiti' poem targets TMC rebels amid growing dissent

Mamata's 'Girgiti' poem targets TMC rebels amid growing dissent

Rediff.com29 May 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has penned a new poem titled 'Girgiti' (Chameleon), which political observers believe carries a veiled message for leaders who have recently turned critical of the Trinamool Congress.

Adhikari Pledges Economic Revival, Improved Law And Order In Bengal

Adhikari Pledges Economic Revival, Improved Law And Order In Bengal

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari outlined his government's priorities, focusing on strengthening the state's economy, attracting investment to create jobs, and improving law and order. He criticised the previous administration for alleged corruption and appeasement politics, while highlighting initial successes in border management and reducing criminal activities.

Mamata questions security lapse after attack on Abhishek

Mamata questions security lapse after attack on Abhishek

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Mamata Banerjee has expressed shock over the attack on her nephew and party MP Abhishek Banerjee, raising questions about security arrangements and his subsequent treatment at a hospital. She alleged that there was pressure on doctors regarding his treatment and that the incident could have had fatal consequences.

'BJP Wants Opposition-Mukt Bengal'

'BJP Wants Opposition-Mukt Bengal'

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

'BJP wanted a compromised Opposition and found a match in this faction of the Trinamool.'

Why Sukhendu Sekhar Ray Resigned as TMC MP

Why Sukhendu Sekhar Ray Resigned as TMC MP

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

'Something could happen to me... I understood that day itself that what they had sent me was a final warning.'

RG Kar doc's mother breaks down in assembly as CM Suvendu promises justice

RG Kar doc's mother breaks down in assembly as CM Suvendu promises justice

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday said in the assembly that justice would be delivered in the RG Kar hospital rape and murder case, leaving the victim's mother, a BJP MLA who was present in the House, in tears.

Mamata Banerjee Vows To Protest Despite Police Refusal

Mamata Banerjee Vows To Protest Despite Police Refusal

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has declared that the TMC will proceed with its planned sit-in protest against alleged attacks on party leaders and workers, as well as the Railways' hawker eviction drive, despite the police denying permission for the event.

Maharashtra plans Devabhau, Chhava taxis to take on Uber/Ola, activists cry foul

Maharashtra plans Devabhau, Chhava taxis to take on Uber/Ola, activists cry foul

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Maharashtra BJP MLC Pravin Darekar announced the launch of 'Devabhau' and 'Chhava' cooperative taxi services in Mumbai, aiming to counter private aggregators and benefit drivers directly, but the scheme has drawn sharp criticism from social activist Anjali Damania and the Opposition Congress over the proposed use of Mumbai Bank funds and its political branding.

Another Rajya Sabha MP quits Trinamool, third in a week

Another Rajya Sabha MP quits Trinamool, third in a week

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The TMC is facing a crisis following its defeat in the West Bengal assembly polls and a rebellion that has significantly weakened its organisational and legislative strength.

After assembly revolt, TMC faces rebellion in Parliament

After assembly revolt, TMC faces rebellion in Parliament

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Barely days after losing control of its legislature party in the West Bengal assembly, the Trinamool Congress is now staring at an even bigger political nightmare -- the possibility of the rebellion spreading to its parliamentary ranks.

TMC meltdown continues as ex-minister, Siliguri mayor resign

TMC meltdown continues as ex-minister, Siliguri mayor resign

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) is facing a severe leadership crisis as former minister Jyoti Priya Mallick resigned from all party organisational posts citing health, and senior North Bengal leader Goutam Deb stepped down as mayor of Siliguri Municipal Corporation, amidst widespread internal rifts and electoral setbacks.