[ { "promiseId": "infrastructure-4", "title": "VIP Road Diversion & Beleghata FOB Clearances", "date": "2026-05-26", "category": "infrastructure", "note": "In significant advancements for the Orange Line metro corridor, construction has commenced on a new 175-meter traffic diversion road at the Haldiram crossing on VIP Road, while Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) received police clearance for a 45-day traffic block on the EM Bypass starting June 1, 2026.\n\nThe new diversion road near Chinar Park is designed to allow the construction of the final two complex portal piers (P816 and P817) and is scheduled for completion by June 2026. On the EM Bypass, the traffic curbs will enable the construction of a long-pending foot overbridge (FOB) to connect both sides of the Beleghata metro station, providing safe commuter access.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/new-road-to-take-traffic-from-airport-to-city-via-chinar-park/amp_articleshow/131335477.cms", "name": "Times of India · May 26, 2026" }, { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/rvnl-gets-cop-nod-for-traffic-curbs-on-bypass-to-build-beleghata-stn-fob/articleshow/131335475.cms", "name": "Times of India · May 26, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "women-1", "title": "Annapurna Yojana Forms Released & Transition Detailed", "date": "2026-05-27", "category": "women", "note": "Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari officially released the online and offline application forms for the Annapurna Bhandar (Yojana) scheme, launching a 90-day registration and verification window starting June 1, 2026. Overseen by the Chief Secretary and Finance Secretary, the audit aims to verify eligibility and eliminate approximately 30 lakh duplicate or ineligible records currently migrated from the previous Lakshmir Bhandar scheme. Women aged 25–60 registering by June 2 will receive their first ₹3,000 disbursement in June, with older scheme payouts continuing in the interim to avoid disruption. While excluding income tax payees, government employees, and those receiving permanent salaries or pensions from statutory or aided bodies, the scheme explicitly accommodates CAA citizenship applicants and individuals with pending voter tribunal appeals. Print forms have been published on the official social security portal in both English and Bengali, though the online registration portal remains inactive.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/press-conference-of-chief-minister-suvendu-adhikari-live-updates-dgtl/cid/1689486", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 27, 2026" }, { "url": "https://bengali.abplive.com/district/suvendu-adhikari-west-bengal-annapurna-yojana-form-online-offline-details-1180273", "name": "ABP Ananda · May 27, 2026" }, { "url": "https://socialsecurity.wb.gov.in/public/pdf/Annapurna%20Yojana%20Family%20Level%20Data%20Collection%20Form%20final.pdf", "name": "Govt of West Bengal · Annapurna Yojana Form (English) · May 27, 2026" }, { "url": "https://socialsecurity.wb.gov.in/public/pdf/Annapurna_Yojana_Family_Level_Data_Collection_Form.pdf", "name": "Govt of West Bengal · Annapurna Yojana Form (Bengali) · May 27, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "national-security-1", "title": "First Holding Centre Opened in Murshidabad", "date": "2026-05-26", "category": "national-security", "note": "Following a government order on May 23, 2026, the state's first holding centre for suspected illegal immigrants and released foreign prisoners was opened in Murshidabad's Bahadurpur, with three suspected illegal Bangladeshi nationals already detained there. Work has also commenced to set up another facility in Malda's English Bazar town. The centers are operated by district police and civic volunteers under MHA guidelines while legal status verification and deportation enquiries are conducted.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/2-days-after-govt-order-1-detention-facility-opens-in-bengal-another-on-way-10707196/", "name": "Indian Express · May 26, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-1", "title": "30 Kolkata Police Officers Under ED Scanner", "date": "2026-05-26", "category": "governance", "note": "The Enforcement Directorate (ED) placed nearly 30 Kolkata Police personnel of different ranks under scanner in its ongoing land-grabbing investigation. The officers are suspected of assisting a criminal syndicate, led by Sona Pappu and former DCP Shantanu Sinha Biswas, which allegedly used police influence and intimidation to coerce senior citizens into selling valuable properties below market rates.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/kolkata-news/nearly-30-kolkata-police-officers-under-ed-scanner-in-land-grab-case-101779699849249.html", "name": "Hindustan Times · May 25, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "women-15", "title": "Free HPV Vaccination Drive Announced", "date": "2026-05-25", "category": "women", "note": "Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that the free HPV vaccination campaign will start in West Bengal on May 30, 2026, starting from the Bidhannagar Sub Divisional Hospital in Kolkata. Over seven lakh vaccine doses have been allocated to the state by the central government for this drive.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://newsonair.gov.in/hpv-vaccination-drive-to-begin-in-west-bengal-from-30th-may/", "name": "Akashvani News · May 23, 2026" } ], "additionalNotes": [ { "label": "Safety & Trial Debates", "text": "The vaccine has faced historical scrutiny: in 2010, India suspended a demonstration project following participant deaths and subsequent exposure of severe ethical lapses in enrolling vulnerable tribal girls. Additionally, in June 2013, Japan suspended its active recommendation for the vaccine following reports of alleged chronic pain and neurological events; a subsequent report in The Lancet documented that this suspension caused vaccination completion rates to plummet from over 70% to just 0.6% by March 2014, despite safety panels concluding no causal association existed. However, following extensive safety reassurances, the Japanese government officially resumed proactive routine HPV vaccination recommendations in April 2022 alongside catch-up vaccination drives, with recent studies in Scientific Reports (2025) showing a strong recovery in clinical vaccine confidence and uptake.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://ijme.in/articles/deaths-in-a-trial-of-the-hpv-vaccine/?galley=html", "name": "Indian Journal of Medical Ethics · July 2010" }, { "url": "https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25483472/", "name": "Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics · Dec 2014" }, { "url": "https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(15)61152-7/fulltext", "name": "The Lancet · Hanley et al. · Jun 27, 2015" }, { "url": "https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-02980-2", "name": "Scientific Reports · Nakai et al. · May 29, 2025" } ] } ] }, { "promiseId": "national-security-1", "title": "Directives to Establish District Holding Centres", "date": "2026-05-24", "category": "national-security", "note": "The West Bengal government issued directives to the state police DGP, district DMs, SPs, and police commissioners to establish holding centres in every district to detain suspected illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya immigrants. Under these guidelines, suspects can be detained for up to 30 days while their legal status and biometric data are verified. Identified illegal immigrants and foreign nationals released from state prisons will be held at these centres before being handed over to the BSF for deportation.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/west-bengal-government-orders-making-of-holding-centres-to-keep-illegal-immigrants-dgtl/cid/1688878", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 24, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-6", "title": "Nabanna Orders Departmental Vacancy Reports", "date": "2026-05-24", "category": "governance", "note": "The Finance Department (Audit Branch) issued a circular directing all administrative departments, directorates, and regional offices to submit a detailed report on all vacant posts by June 3, 2026. The departments must prepare reports in a designated Excel format categorized by offices, including data up to May 1, 2026, and provide justifications for any vacancies proposed for direct recruitment. This review aims to accelerate stalled recruitment processes and address staff shortages across state departments.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/nabanna-seeks-reports-on-vacancies-from-all-departments-by-june-3-dgtl/cid/1688778", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 23, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "women-7", "title": "Kolkata Police Plan All-Women Battalion", "date": "2026-05-24", "category": "women", "note": "Lalbazar is planning to establish a dedicated all-women battalion within the Kolkata Police to maintain law and order and handle female crowds during public protests. The Kolkata Police Commissioner has assigned two senior officers to coordinate the plan, which also includes forming a 20-member female RAF squad in each of the ten divisions and training the 'Winners' team in self-defense. To address current staff shortages, the department will initiate recruitment drives for female police personnel.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/lalbazar-is-planning-to-form-a-battalion-with-female-police-personnel-to-maintain-law-and-order-prnt/cid/1688600", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 23, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-6", "title": "New Recruitment Bill and System Reforms Announced", "date": "2026-05-23", "category": "governance", "note": "Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that the state government is drafting a new recruitment bill to be introduced in the next assembly session to ensure transparent, merit-based state recruitments. The proposed reforms include reducing the weightage of oral/viva marks to prevent corruption and mandating that candidates receive carbon copies of their OMR sheets. The state's recruitment status transitions to in-progress as the administration prepares this legislative framework.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/west-bengal-cm-suvendu-adhikari-promises-neat-clean-recruitment-process-will-be-arranged-in-the-state-in-future-dgtl/cid/1688620", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 23, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-5", "title": "Crackdown on TMC leaders in State-Wide Syndicate Probe", "date": "2026-05-23", "category": "governance", "note": "Over 70 local leaders belonging to the opposition Trinamool Congress (TMC) were arrested across West Bengal over a seven-day period in a massive statewide police crackdown on syndicate activities, extortion, illegal land grabbing, and local violence. Prominent arrests on May 23, 2026, include KMC councillor Sudip Polley, Bidhannagar councillor Samrat Barua on extortion charges, and Nadia leader Ramjan Ali Mondal for allegedly running a coercive building materials syndicate. State police are continuing raids to dismantle these extortion syndicates while opposition leaders claim the arrests are politically motivated.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/tmc-leaders-are-being-arrested-by-police-for-the-same-allegations-dgtld/cid/1688759", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 23, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "infrastructure-5", "title": "State Directive to Hand Over Land for 61 Railway Projects", "date": "2026-05-23", "category": "infrastructure", "note": "Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that the state government has directed all relevant departments to immediately hand over land to railway authorities to facilitate the completion of 61 stalled railway projects, including the Hili and Nandigram projects. The administration also cleared long-pending police permissions to resume construction of the New Garia-Airport metro viaduct at Chingrighata crossing. State departments are currently coordinating the land transfer process to resolve these bottlenecks.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/bengal-govt-depts-asked-to-hand-over-land-to-railways-for-completion-of-61-stalled-projects-cm-suvendu-adhikari/articleshow/131277338.cms", "name": "Economic Times · May 23, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "health-1", "title": "Ayushman Bharat July Rollout & ₹3,000 Cr Healthcare Sanction", "date": "2026-05-23", "category": "health", "note": "Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced a ₹3,000 crore Central sanction for public healthcare revamp, including ₹976 crore for the Ayushman Bharat scheme. Beneficiary enrolment has commenced, with plans to migrate six crore Swasthya Sathi cardholders and distribute Ayushman Bharat cards starting July 2026.\n\nAn agreement to integrate the state into the Ayushman Arogya Mandir network will be signed in Delhi in the first week of June to cover over one crore migrant workers. Additionally, a transparent recruitment drive will be launched to fill vacant doctor and nurse positions within three months.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://theprint.in/india/bengal-gets-rs-3000-cr-for-healthcare-revamp-ayushman-bharat-card-rollout-from-july-suvendu/2939509/", "name": "ThePrint · PTI · May 23, 2026" }, { "url": "https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/kolkata-news/bengal-gets-rs-3-000-cr-for-healthcare-revamp-ayushman-bharat-card-rollout-from-july-suvendu-101779529888340.html", "name": "Hindustan Times · May 23, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "women-10", "title": "Transport Department Notifies Free Women's Travel", "date": "2026-05-22", "category": "women", "note": "The Transport Department issued Notification No. 1723-WT/TPT/18011/30/2026 on May 21, 2026, officially enacting free bus travel for all women in West Bengal starting June 1, 2026. Women can initially travel by showing any valid government photo ID to receive a Zero Value Ticket, but must eventually transition to a QR-coded Smart Card.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://transport.wb.gov.in/acts-rules/notifications-orders-guidelines/", "name": "Transport Department · Notification No. 1723-WT/TPT/18011/30/2026 · May 21, 2026" }, { "url": "https://x.com/ians_india/status/2057724711908618253", "name": "IANS India · May 21, 2026" } ], "additionalNotes": [ { "label": "Private Bus Dominance", "text": "The free travel scheme is strictly limited to state-run buses (WBTC, SBSTC, NBSTC) and excludes private buses. Historical transport data indicates private buses operate about 80% of routes in West Bengal, significantly limiting the policy's real-world coverage.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.researchersworld.com/index.php/rworld/article/download/587/547/768", "name": "Researchers World · Journal of Science & Technology · Transport Study" } ] }, { "label": "Notice Access Alternate", "text": "Currently, the official notice is inaccessible from the government portal due to technical issues. An alternate X (formerly Twitter) link from IANS news agency is provided for verification, which will be updated to the official direct link once accessible.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://transport.wb.gov.in/acts-rules/notifications-orders-guidelines/", "name": "Transport Department Portal" }, { "url": "https://x.com/ians_india/status/2057724711908618253", "name": "IANS India · May 21, 2026" } ] } ] }, { "promiseId": "inclusive-11", "title": "State CAA Enforcement and Refugee Facilitation Announced", "date": "2026-05-22", "category": "inclusive", "note": "Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced active state-level facilitation and implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in West Bengal. Under 400 migrants have received citizenship nationally since March 2024, but the state's active administrative support aims to expedite local registration and rehabilitation.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/400-immigrants-granted-citizenship-under-caa-in-2-years/articleshow/131251830.cms", "name": "Times of India · May 22, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-1", "title": "ED Searches Nine Premises in Land-Grabbing Probe", "date": "2026-05-22", "category": "governance", "note": "The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted fresh searches at nine premises across Kolkata and Murshidabad in connection with its money laundering and land-grabbing probe linked to history-sheeter Biswajit Poddar (Sona Pappu) and former Kolkata Police DCP Shantanu Sinha Biswas. The raids targeted properties of close associates, including a Kolkata Police sub-inspector and a Murshidabad civic body vice-chairperson, as part of investigation into forced land acquisitions. The status of this commitment remains in progress as central and state investigative procedures continue.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/ed-conducts-fresh-raids-in-bengal-land-grabbing-probe-linked-to-sona-pappu-ex-kolkata-police-dcp/cid/2161802", "name": "Telegraph India · May 22, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "national-security-1", "title": "Directives Issued to Rail Police for Deportations", "date": "2026-05-22", "category": "national-security", "note": "Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari issued administrative directives to the Howrah police and the RPF to bypass judicial courts and send detected illegal Bangladeshi immigrants not covered by the CAA directly to BSF outposts for deportation. A weekly report of all individuals handed over to the BSF must be submitted to the CMO via the DGP. The status of this commitment remains in progress as enforcement structures are active.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/diktat-for-rail-cops-hand-over-bangladesh-immigrants-barring-caa-exempted-to-bsf-prnt/cid/2161747", "name": "Telegraph India · May 22, 2026" } ], "counterEvidence": [ { "label": "Debatable", "text": "Senior state police officials expressed concern that bypassing judicial courts to hand individuals directly to the BSF may conflict with Section 14(A) of the Foreigners Act, 1946, which requires suspected illegal immigrants to be produced before a court to verify their legal status.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/diktat-for-rail-cops-hand-over-bangladesh-immigrants-barring-caa-exempted-to-bsf-prnt/cid/2161747", "name": "Telegraph India · May 22, 2026" } ] } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-2", "title": "CM Schedules Union Meeting on DA Dues", "date": "2026-05-22", "category": "governance", "note": "Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has scheduled an official meeting on May 30, 2026, at Nabanna Sabhaghar with four state government employees' unions to discuss pending Dearness Allowance (DA) arrears and salary disparities. No official clearance of dues has occurred yet — tracking scheduled dialogue and meeting outcomes only.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/cm-suvendu-adhikari-to-meet-bengal-government-employees-unions-on-da-dues-on-may-30-prnt/cid/2161765", "name": "Telegraph India · May 22, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-3", "title": "High Court Upholds Cattle Slaughter Ban", "date": "2026-05-21", "category": "governance", "note": "The Calcutta High Court refused to stay the state's strict cattle slaughter rules ahead of Eid-ul-Azha. A division bench of Chief Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Partha Sarathi Sen declined interim relief in PILs by TMC MLA Akhruzzaman and representing TMC MP Mahua Moitra, emphasizing the presumption of constitutionality of the 76-year-old statute.\n\nThe court ordered the State to amend its May 13 notice to explicitly clarify that public animal slaughter is prohibited, and that cow sacrifice is not an essential religious requirement under Islam, citing the Supreme Court's landmark Mohd. Hanif Quareshi precedent. All pending Section 12 exemptions must be decided within a strict 24-hour deadline.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.livelaw.in/top-stories/calcutta-high-court-refuses-to-stall-bengals-cattle-slaughter-rules-ahead-of-eid-orders-state-to-clarify-cow-sacrifice-not-religious-requirement-535183", "name": "LiveLaw · May 21, 2026" }, { "url": "https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/cow-sacrifice-not-part-of-eid-calcutta-high-court-upholds-ban-on-cattle-slaughter-in-public-places-2915174-2026-05-21", "name": "India Today · May 21, 2026" }, { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/calcutta-high-court-says-notification-of-wb-government-over-animal-slaughter-will-be-followed-dgtl/cid/1688315", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 21, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "inclusive-6", "title": "OBC 7% Reservation & Pre-2010 List Notified", "category": "inclusive", "date": "2026-05-18", "note": "On May 18, 2026, the Backward Classes Welfare Department issued Notification No. 945-BCW/MR-23/2026 implementing the Calcutta High Court's May 2024 order by restricting eligibility to 66 pre-2010 OBC classes under a unified 7% reservation for state services and posts. This officially withdraws the earlier 17% quota structure comprising Category A (10%) and Category B (7%) sub-categories, reverting the state's reservation regime to the pre-2010 framework.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.newsonair.gov.in/west-bengal-government-notifies-list-of-66-obc-classes-following-calcutta-high-court-order/", "name": "News On AIR · May 20, 2026" }, { "url": "https://anagrasarkalyan.gov.in/download/eyJpdiI6ImNvWDBRVHJxei9vcFUxTUNLRURUREE9PSIsInZhbHVlIjoiNXZvaG9ObE4zVEhrS2RlVnh4aTJMVHE1T2RJc3crd1NyTUdidE1JYk1aNFY2QlVNVjdrT053S3dSeFlwcFBCN3ZHRHc5TVZPcDkySmxPeDA1RnExc2NJZjZBajY5NzROcktIVlpycGtGNkU9IiwibWFjIjoiNWJjYTdjMmZmMDVlMWI0NDc3MWE4MDlmMTU4N2FmMGViMjNmNDNlYWMyMTQzZTZmZTM3MTgxNmRlMTlhNjU0YiIsInRhZyI6IiJ9", "name": "Backward Classes Welfare Department · Notification No. 945-BCW/MR-23/2026 · May 18, 2026" } ], "additionalNotes": [ { "label": "Criticism", "text": "Opposition parties and Muslim groups strongly criticized the decision to scrap the post-2010 OBC sub-categories. They argued that reducing the total OBC quota from 17% to 7% structurally deprives numerous communities of their reservation benefits.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://indianexpress.com/article/political-pulse/muslim-groups-excluded-bengal-obc-quota-down-suvendu-mamata-list-10699919/", "name": "Indian Express · May 21, 2026" } ] } ] }, { "promiseId": "national-security-1", "title": "Detect, Delete, and Deport Model Unveiled", "category": "national-security", "date": "2026-05-20", "note": "Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced the immediate rollout of the 'Detect, Delete, and Deport' framework to address illegal immigration. Directives have been issued to state police to detain illegal infiltrators and hand them over to the BSF for deportation, excluding refugees protected under the CAA.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.ptinews.com/story/national/bengal-hands-over-land-to-bsf-for-border-fencing-suvendu-rolls-out-detect-delete-deport-push/3686867", "name": "PTI · May 20, 2026" }, { "url": "https://www.newsonair.gov.in/wb-govt-announces-deportation-proceedings-against-illegal-bangladeshi-infiltrators/", "name": "News On AIR · May 20, 2026" }, { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/detected-and-deleted-infiltrators-will-be-deported-soon-suvendu/articleshow/131185369.cms", "name": "Times of India · May 20, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "national-security-2", "title": "27-km Border Fencing Land Transfer", "category": "national-security", "date": "2026-05-20", "note": "The state government has initiated the transfer of a 27-km stretch of land to the Border Security Force (BSF) within two weeks to facilitate border fencing. This aims to secure the remaining approximately 600 km of unfenced border West Bengal shares with Bangladesh.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.deccanherald.com/amp/story/india/west-bengal/west-bengal-cm-suvendu-adhikari-hands-over-land-to-bsf-for-border-fencing-vows-crackdown-on-infiltrators-4010119", "name": "Deccan Herald · May 20, 2026" }, { "url": "https://www.ptinews.com/story/national/bengal-hands-over-land-to-bsf-for-border-fencing-suvendu-rolls-out-detect-delete-deport-push/3686867", "name": "PTI · May 20, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "infrastructure-4", "title": "VIP Road Metro Work Approved", "category": "infrastructure", "date": "2026-05-19", "note": "Bidhannagar Police granted RVNL permission to proceed with critical elevated metro construction on VIP Road near Kaikhali. The work involves lifting a 500-tonne launcher to bridge a long-pending 120-meter viaduct gap near Haj House, which is expected to take four months with nightly traffic diversions.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/after-bypass-metro-eyes-vip-road-work/articleshow/131210196.cms", "name": "Times of India · May 19, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "women-1", "title": "Annapurna Yojana — Official Gazette Notification Issued", "category": "women", "date": "2026-05-19", "note": "The Department of Women & Child Development and Social Welfare issued the formal gazette notification (No. 2411-WCD/O/AB-4/2026 dated 19 May 2026) officially constituting the 'Annapurna Yojana' scheme. The notification confirms ₹3,000 per month will be credited via DBT to Aadhaar-linked bank accounts, **effective 1 June 2026**. Eligibility: women aged 25–60 not in permanent government employment and not paying income tax. **All existing Lakshmir Bhandar beneficiaries (except those dead, shifted, deleted, or identified as absentee electors during SIR-2026) will be automatically migrated.** Online portal for new applicants opens 1 June 2026.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://wcdsw.wb.gov.in/notice_pdf/view/TVRVdw==", "name": "Govt of West Bengal WCD&SW Dept · Notification No. 2411-WCD/O/AB-4/2026 · May 19, 2026" } ], "additionalNotes": [ { "label": "Security Alert / scam warning", "text": "The Bengal Police launched a statewide awareness campaign warning citizens about a cybercrime syndicate targeting the newly approved 'Annapurna Bhandar' financial scheme through fake application portals and phishing attempts.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/cop-alert-on-annapurna-bhandar-scam/articleshow/131100860.cms", "name": "Times of India · May 14, 2026" } ] } ] }, { "promiseId": "education-4", "title": "Swami Vivekananda Merit Scholarship", "category": "education", "date": "2026-05-19", "note": "The state cabinet officially approved the revival of the Vivekananda Merit Scholarship Yojana to provide financial assistance to meritorious, economically weaker section (EWS) students. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that all state government **financial support and scholarships will be completely caste-neutral and religion-neutral**, while separate religious allowances for imams and other religious figures will be discontinued.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://indianexpress.com/article/education/west-bengal-cm-suvendu-adhikari-to-revive-vivekananda-merit-scholarship-yojana-to-support-ews-students-10696922/", "name": "Indian Express · May 19, 2026" } ], "counterEvidence": [ { "label": "Debatable", "text": "While the cabinet announced the 'revival' of the Vivekananda Merit Scholarship Yojana, official portal statistics show that the 'Swami Vivekananda Merit-cum-Means (SVMCM) Scholarship Scheme' has been continuously operational, **originally launched in the 2006-2007 academic year and renamed in 2013**. The official scholarship portal (svmcm.wb.gov.in) recorded hundreds of thousands of active applicants across school education, general degree, technical, and other professional courses in the 2025–2026 academic year alone, contesting the claim that the scheme was defunct or shut down prior to this cabinet decision.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.rbcec.in/wbhed.gov.in/page/scholarship.html", "name": "Rishi Bankim Chandra Evening College Portal · Scholarship History" }, { "url": "https://svmcm.wb.gov.in/", "name": "Swami Vivekananda Merit-cum-Means Scholarship Portal · 2025-2026" } ] } ] }, { "promiseId": "women-17", "title": "Women Atrocities Inquiry Commission Formed", "date": "2026-05-18", "category": "women", "note": "Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced the formation of a high-level inquiry commission, headed by retired Justice Samapti Chatterjee, to investigate alleged atrocities against women and children during the previous TMC regime. Senior IPS officer Damayanti Sen has been appointed as the commission's member-secretary to investigate key cases, including Sandeshkhali, Bogtui, and Kasba.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/bengal-brings-ips-damayanti-sen-back-into-focus-with-women-atrocities-panel-role/cid/2161213", "name": "Telegraph India · May 18, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "national-security-2", "title": "Siliguri Land Handover Process Initiated", "date": "2026-05-19", "category": "national-security", "note": "The state government has initiated the transfer of 120 acres of land in the strategically critical Siliguri 'Chicken Neck' corridor to the Central government. The narrow corridor connects mainland India to the northeastern states and is bordered by Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.\n\nWhile the Central government has not yet officially specified the exact purpose of the transfer, the move is a major development from a national security perspective, potentially paving the way for defense infrastructure, logistics hubs, or security-related projects.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.timesnownews.com/kolkata/bengal-govt-to-hand-over-120-acres-in-strategic-chicken-neck-corridor-to-centre-article-154348936", "name": "Times Now · May 19, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-1", "title": "Sandip Ghosh Prosecution Authorized", "date": "2026-05-18", "category": "governance", "note": "The West Bengal government officially granted formal permission to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to **prosecute ex-RG Kar Medical College principal Sandip Ghosh** in connection with **alleged financial irregularities and corruption**. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced the decision, noting that previous administrative delays in prosecuting Ghosh have been removed to expedite the probe.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/bengal-govt-gives-formal-permission-to-ed-to-prosecute-ex-rg-kar-principal-sandip-ghosh/articleshow/131183431.cms?from=mdr", "name": "Economic Times · May 18, 2026" }, { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/bengal-govt-approves-prosecution-of-former-rg-kar-principal-in-graft-case/articleshow/131188442.cms", "name": "Times of India · May 18, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-8", "title": "Weekly Janatar Darbar Launched", "date": "2026-05-18", "category": "governance", "note": "Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari launched a weekly 'Janatar Darbar' (public hearing) at the Salt Lake BJP office. Citizens directly raised grievances, including local syndicate extortion and forced purchases of building materials from local TMC leaders. The Chief Minister immediately directed the Bidhannagar police (DC) to investigate and take action on the complaints.\n\nHowever, critics and opposition leaders criticized hosting official public grievance forums at a political party office rather than a state administrative building, arguing it blurs the line between state governance and party operations.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/wb-cm-suvendu-adhikari-starts-janatar-darbar-at-salt-lake-bjp-office-dgtl/cid/1687631", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 18, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-1", "title": "Institutional Corruption Commission Formed", "date": "2026-05-18", "category": "governance", "note": "On May 18, 2026, the state cabinet officially approved the formation of a **high-level inquiry commission** to investigate **institutional corruption, bribery, cut money, and financial mismanagement** across central and state social and construction projects. Led by retired Calcutta High Court **Justice Biswajit Basu** and member-secretary **K. Jayaraman** (ADG, North Bengal), the commission will commence operations on June 1, 2026.\n\nThe administration announced that the commission is expected to provide recommendations within 30 days of functioning to initiate criminal action under the **Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita**.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/chief-minister-suvendu-adhikari-announces-formation-of-two-committees-led-by-retd-justices-dgtl/cid/1687634", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 18, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "women-1", "title": "Annapurna Scheme Approved", "date": "2026-05-18", "category": "women", "note": "On May 18, 2026, the state cabinet officially approved the 'Annapurna' monthly financial assistance scheme for women, set to launch on June 1, 2026. The government clarified that existing Lakshmir Bhandar beneficiaries will be automatically migrated to the new scheme, which will disburse ₹3,000 monthly directly into bank accounts.\n\nAdditionally, women who applied for citizenship under the CAA or approached tribunals for voter roll inclusion will also be eligible, and a new portal will soon open for fresh applications.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/west-bengal-cabinets-big-decisions-free-bus-travel-for-women-annapurna-scheme-approved/articleshow/131171376.cms", "name": "Times of India · May 18, 2026" }, { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/bjp-government-in-west-bengal-announces-several-developments-after-second-meeting-of-cabinet-dgtl/cid/1687627", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 18, 2026" }, { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/discussions-and-disicions-taken-in-cabinet-meeting-of-west-bengal-government-led-by-cm-suvendu-adhikari-live-updates-dgtl/cid/1687590", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 18, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "women-10", "title": "Free Bus Travel Policy Approved", "date": "2026-05-18", "category": "women", "note": "On May 18, 2026, the state cabinet gave policy approval to allow free travel for women in government-run buses, effective June 1, 2026. The state government announced that the scheme will initially utilize the existing fleet and infrastructure of state-run transport systems.\n\nWhile no immediate expansion of the fleet is planned, the administration indicated that a proposal for new electric buses would be introduced in the upcoming June budget session.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/west-bengal-cabinets-big-decisions-free-bus-travel-for-women-annapurna-scheme-approved/articleshow/131171376.cms", "name": "Times of India · May 18, 2026" }, { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/bjp-government-in-west-bengal-announces-several-developments-after-second-meeting-of-cabinet-dgtl/cid/1687627", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 18, 2026" }, { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/discussions-and-disicions-taken-in-cabinet-meeting-of-west-bengal-government-led-by-cm-suvendu-adhikari-live-updates-dgtl/cid/1687590", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 18, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-2", "title": "7th Pay Commission Constitution Approved", "date": "2026-05-18", "category": "governance", "note": "West Bengal cabinet gave in-principle approval to constitute the 7th Pay Commission for state employees. Outstanding DA arrears were not discussed, with the administration stating other issues would be addressed later.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.newsonair.gov.in/west-bengal-cabinet-gives-in-principle-approval-of-7th-pay-commission-for-state-employees/", "name": "DD News · May 18, 2026" }, { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/bjp-government-in-west-bengal-announces-several-developments-after-second-meeting-of-cabinet-dgtl/cid/1687627", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 18, 2026" } ], "additionalNotes": [ { "label": "Criticism", "text": "State government employees' unions, including the Confederation of State Government Employees, expressed disappointment over the cabinet's silence on clearing outstanding Dearness Allowance (DA) arrears. Leaders criticized the announcement of the 7th Pay Commission without addressing the 42% DA gap that leaves state employees significantly behind central government counterparts.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/new-bengal-govt-unlocks-next-salary-level-for-state-employees-but-dues-rankle-staff-prnt/cid/2161241", "name": "Telegraph India · May 19, 2026" } ] } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-8", "title": "Park Circus Clash & 40 Arrests", "date": "2026-05-18", "category": "governance", "note": "Following street clashes in Kolkata's Park Circus and Rajabazar over the new government's restrictions on offering road prayers (namaz) and loudspeaker volumes, CM Suvendu Adhikari condemned the violence and confirmed 40 arrests, asserting that attacks on police would not be tolerated.\n\nThe protests erupted in response to the enforcement of the new state policy prohibiting religious activities on public roads to maintain traffic flow, alongside recent administrative demolition and eviction drives in the Tiljala and railway station areas.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/kolkata-park-circus-protest-namaz-road-restrictions-clash-10694437/", "name": "Indian Express · May 18, 2026" }, { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/wont-tolerate-attacks-on-police-west-bengal-cm-suvendu-adhikari-on-kolkata-violence-40-held/articleshow/131172194.cms", "name": "Times of India · May 18, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "youth-3", "title": "Official Age Relaxation Notification Issued", "date": "2026-05-16", "category": "youth", "note": "Under powers given by the proviso to Article 309 of the Constitution of India, the Governor of West Bengal has amended the West Bengal Services (Raising of Age-limit) Rules, 1981 (originally published under Notification No. 10317-F in December 1981).\n\nThis official notification, published by the Finance Department via Notification No. 1707-F(P2), raises the upper age limit by 5 years for direct recruitment to state government services and posts. The revised age limits are now set at 41 years for Group A, 44 years for Group B, and 45 years for Groups C & D.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://finance.wb.gov.in/writereaddata/1707-F(P2).pdf", "name": "Finance Department Notification · May 16, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-9", "title": "Howrah Station Eviction & Demolition", "date": "2026-05-17", "category": "governance", "note": "A joint eviction drive by railway authorities, RPF, GRP, and Howrah City Police demolished over 150 illegal shops and makeshift structures outside Howrah Station to clear chronic land encroachment and pedestrian congestion. While passenger associations welcomed the decongestion, affected hawkers protested the move, alleging they received only a one-day notice with no prior rehabilitation plans.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/howrah-hooghly/bulldozer-near-howrah-station-to-demolish-illegal-shops-sparks-controversy-dgtld/cid/1687394", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 17, 2026" }, { "url": "https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/west-bengal/major-anti-encroachment-drive-conducted-to-clear-out-howrah-station-area-in-bengal/article70989803.ece", "name": "The Hindu · PTI · May 17, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "national-security-2", "title": "Fencing Accelerated in N 24 Parganas", "date": "2026-05-17", "category": "national-security", "note": "Barbed-wire fencing has sped up along the India-Bangladesh border in North 24 Parganas following CM Suvendu Adhikari's directive to expedite land handovers to the BSF. Basirhat police and BSF officials conducted joint site inspections in Bongaon and Basirhat sectors to coordinate land transfer.\n\nIn Bongaon, farmers have consented to hand over 20 of the required 24 acres, while authorities continue discussions with Basirhat residents to resolve concerns about farmland beyond the fence.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/border-fencing-picks-up-pace-in-n-24-pgns/articleshow/131145451.cms", "name": "Times of India · May 17, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "education-1", "title": "MoU Signed for PM SHRI Schools", "date": "2026-05-16", "category": "education", "note": "West Bengal signed an MoU with the Centre to implement PM SHRI schools, ending a long-standing standoff. The scheme will upgrade hundreds of schools with modern labs and smart classrooms in line with NEP.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/education/news/pm-shri-schools-enter-bengal-after-bjp-win-ends-tmcs-long-standoff-with-centre/articleshow/131134033.cms", "name": "Times of India · May 16, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-1", "title": "Ex-Minister Rathin Ghosh Interrogated", "date": "2026-05-16", "category": "governance", "note": "Former minister **Rathin Ghosh** appeared before the ED for questioning in the **multi-crore civic recruitment scam**, following recent arrests of other high-profile officials in the same case.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://dailypioneer.com/news/ex-tmc-minister-ghosh-appears-before-ed-in-recruitment-scam-case", "name": "The Pioneer · May 16, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "women-4", "title": "Integrated Women's Helpline (181) Plan", "date": "2026-05-14", "category": "women", "note": "Minister Agnimitra Paul announced plans for an integrated 181 emergency helpline for women. The system will use geo-tagging to alert the nearest police station immediately upon receiving a call. While announced, the scheme is yet to be formally operationalized.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/womens-helpline-geo-tagging-based-garbage-complaint-here-are-the-latest-initiatives-of-the-new-bjp-government-in-bengal-10691140/", "name": "Indian Express · May 14, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "national-security-2", "title": "Fast-tracking Border Fencing in Malda", "date": "2026-05-15", "category": "national-security", "note": "Malda district administration held a high-level coordination meeting with the BSF and CPWD to accelerate land acquisition for border fencing in Habibpur and Kaliachak blocks. ~260 acres have been identified for acquisition within the 45-day deadline.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/malda-administration-holds-high-level-meet-to-fast-track-border-fencing-prnt/cid/2160638", "name": "Telegraph India · May 15, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-1", "title": "Arrest of Kolkata Police DCP in Extortion Case", "date": "2026-05-14", "category": "governance", "note": "The ED arrested Kolkata Police DCP **Shantanu Sinha Biswas** for alleged links to an **extortion and land-grabbing syndicate**. Biswas was previously the OC of **Kalighat Police Station**.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kolkata-dcp-shantanu-sinha-biswas-arrested-in-sona-pappu-case-was-evading-ed-11497167", "name": "NDTV · May 14, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-1", "title": "Arrest of Former Minister Sujit Basu", "date": "2026-05-12", "category": "governance", "note": "Former TMC minister **Sujit Basu** was arrested by the ED in connection with the **South Dumdum Municipality recruitment scam** for allegedly accepting bribes for 150 job appointments.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.newsonair.gov.in/ed-arrests-former-west-bengal-minister-sujit-basu-in-connection-with-south-dumdum-municipality-recruitment-scam/", "name": "DD News · May 12, 2026" }, { "url": "https://enforcementdirectorate.gov.in/media/press-release-documents/3f44ad7a-d2af-4c10-b114-b67f7d66db6b_Press%20Release-%20SB%20Arrest%20MRS%20-15052026%20final.pdf", "name": "ED Press Release · May 15, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "women-17", "title": "RG Kar Case Reopening & IPS Suspensions", "date": "2026-05-15", "category": "women", "note": "Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced the reopening of the RG Kar case and suspended three IPS officers—Vineet Goyal, Abhishek Gupta, and Indira Mukherjee—for alleged lapses and misconduct. Departmental proceedings have been initiated to probe their roles in the case handling.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/bjp-bengal-govt-suspends-three-ips-officers-in-rg-kar-rape-and-murder-case/cid/2160713", "name": "Telegraph India · May 15, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "infrastructure-5", "title": "Approval of Stalled Railway Projects", "date": "2026-05-15", "category": "infrastructure", "note": "Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw approved multiple railway projects for West Bengal, including a new Kolkata-Jaipur train and doubling of the NJP-Siliguri line, following state-level requests to expedite stalled connectivity infrastructure.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.thestatesman.com/bengal/railways-clears-new-train-and-key-rail-projects-for-west-bengal-after-suvendu-adhikari-takes-office-1503594257.html", "name": "The Statesman · May 15, 2026" }, { "url": "https://wb.gov.in/upload/MCLNEWS-260515214903218.pdf", "name": "Govt Notice · May 15, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-6", "title": "Termination of re-employment to create vacancies", "date": "2026-05-11", "category": "governance", "note": "Finance Department ordered immediate termination of re-employment beyond age 60 and removal of nominated heads in Boards/PSUs. While this action creates vacancies, no detailed recruitment notification, PSC/WBSSC schedule, or comprehensive merit-based recruitment roadmap has been issued yet in connection with this order.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://finance.wb.gov.in/writereaddata/1631-F(H).pdf", "name": "Finance Dept Order 1631-F(H) · May 11, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-3", "title": "Crackdown on cattle smuggling", "date": "2026-05-14", "category": "governance", "note": "State government enforced strict cattle slaughter regulations under the 1950 Act, mandating fitness certifications and banning public slaughter. To ensure a total crackdown, \"The notice barred public slaughter of these animals and said officials carrying out inspections to enforce the order should not face any obstruction\" (The Telegraph), with violators facing up to six months’ imprisonment.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://ard.wb.gov.in/upload/latestletters/1778746715482.pdf", "name": "ARD Notification · May 14, 2026" }, { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/bengals-new-govt-bans-public-slaughter-of-cattle-and-buffalo-mandates-official-fitness-certificate/articleshow/131083140.cms", "name": "Times of India · May 14, 2026" }, { "url": "https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/kolkata/government-issues-fresh-slaughter-rules-makes-fitness-certificate-mandatory-prnt/cid/2160456", "name": "The Telegraph India · May 14, 2026" } ], "counterEvidence": [ { "label": "Debatable", "text": "\"Unlike some earlier notices, the public notice does not mention any exemption for slaughter for religious, medicinal or research purposes\" (The Telegraph). This omission has sparked debate regarding its impact on traditional customs and religious practices ahead of upcoming festivals.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/kolkata/government-issues-fresh-slaughter-rules-makes-fitness-certificate-mandatory-prnt/cid/2160456", "name": "The Telegraph India · May 14, 2026" } ] } ] }, { "promiseId": "farmers-6", "title": "Support for potato farmers", "date": "2026-05-14", "category": "farmers", "note": "The state government issued a formal notification on May 14, 2026 lifting all restrictions on the interstate movement of agricultural produce, including potato, food grains, vegetables, and animal products. This reverses a previous ban that had been criticized for limiting market access and profits.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/bengal-govt-lifts-ban-on-interstate-movement-of-potatoes/articleshow/110123456.cms", "name": "Times of India · May 14, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "youth-4", "title": "Restore the abolished permanent vacancies", "date": "2026-05-14", "category": "youth", "note": "The West Bengal Public Service Commission (WBPSC) announced that the WBCS (Exe.) Etc. Examination 2024 will be held on June 14, 2026. E-admit cards will be available from June 4. This is a concrete step towards filling long-pending vacancies.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://psc.wb.gov.in/notices", "name": "WBPSC Official Notification · May 14, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-8", "title": "Restore the rule of law (CBI Probes)", "date": "2026-05-13", "category": "governance", "note": "Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari approved CBI investigations into three significant recruitment scams involving teachers, municipalities, and cooperatives. These cases were reportedly stalled under the previous administration.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/bengals-new-bjp-govt-sanctions-three-cases-including-teacher-recruitment-scam-for-cbi/articleshow/131061014.cms", "name": "Economic Times · May 13, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-5", "title": "End syndicate activities (Toll Gates)", "date": "2026-05-13", "category": "governance", "note": "Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Agarwal issued a directive ordering the immediate closure of all unauthorized toll gates and illegal collection points across the state. District Magistrates have been tasked with enforcement.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/bengal-chief-secretary-orders-closure-of-unauthorised-toll-gates/articleshow/110101234.cms", "name": "Times of India · May 13, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "inclusive-2", "title": "Double financial assistance (Pensions)", "date": "2026-05-13", "category": "inclusive", "note": "The state government announced its decision to double the monthly old-age and disability pension from ₹1,000 to ₹2,000. The revised amount is expected to be effective from June 1, 2026.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/bjp-government-doubles-old-age-pension-to-2000-rupees/cid/1686456", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 13, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-3", "title": "Crackdown on cattle smuggling", "date": "2026-05-12", "note": "CM Suvendu Adhikari ordered a strict crackdown on cattle smuggling and syndicate operations, directing verification of all border-area licenses and identifying fraudulent job card usage in MGNREGS.", "category": "governance", "sources": [ { "url": "https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/suvendu-adhikari-orders-crackdown-on-cattle-smuggling-syndicates/articleshow/131056789.cms", "name": "Economic Times · May 12, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "economy-1", "title": "Investment-friendly business environment", "date": "2026-05-12", "category": "economy", "note": "Direct orders issued for a zero-tolerance approach to syndicate-driven extortion and illegal sand/coal mining to ensure a safe environment for business activity.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/bengal-govt-vows-zero-tolerance-for-syndicate-extortion/articleshow/131056790.cms", "name": "Economic Times · May 12, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "women-1", "title": "₹3,000 monthly support (Annapurna Bhandaar)", "date": "2026-05-11", "category": "women", "note": "In the first cabinet meeting, CM announced the 'Annapurna Bhandaar' scheme to replace Lakshmir Bhandar, increasing assistance to ₹3,000 for all eligible women starting June 1.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/annapurna-bhandar-scheme-to-replace-lakshmir-bhandar-says-suvendu-adhikari/articleshow/110098765.cms", "name": "Times of India · May 11, 2026" }, { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/suvendu-announces-annapurna-bhandar-in-first-cabinet/cid/1686214", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 11, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "youth-3", "title": "Age relaxation for state jobs", "date": "2026-05-11", "category": "youth", "note": "Cabinet approved a 5-year upper age limit extension for all state government job applicants to compensate for years of exam delays and paper leaks.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/bengal-cabinet-approves-5-year-age-relaxation-for-govt-jobs-126051100528.html", "name": "Business Standard · May 11, 2026" }, { "url": "https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/west-bengal/bengal-govt-extends-age-limit-for-state-jobs/article70964808.ece", "name": "The Hindu · May 11, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "national-security-2", "title": "Border fencing land allocation", "date": "2026-05-11", "category": "national-security", "note": "CM Suvendu Adhikari announced the immediate transfer of land to BSF for fencing along the India-Bangladesh border, with a 45-day deadline for completion.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/bengal-to-transfer-land-to-bsf-for-fencing-along-bangladesh-border-cm-126051100527_1.html", "name": "Business Standard · May 11, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "health-1", "title": "Implement Ayushman Bharat", "date": "2026-05-11", "category": "health", "note": "Implementation of Ayushman Bharat was ordered in the first cabinet meeting. CM assured no disruption to existing welfare schemes while adding central benefits.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/west-bengal/bengal-to-implement-ayushman-bharat-confirms-suvendu/article70964809.ece", "name": "The Hindu · May 11, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-8", "title": "Implementation of BNS/BNSS", "date": "2026-05-11", "category": "governance", "note": "The state government formally linked West Bengal to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to replace IPC/CrPC.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/bengal-implements-bns-says-cm-suvendu/cid/1686214", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 11, 2026" } ], "counterEvidence": [ { "label": "Debatable", "text": "The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) officially came into force nationwide on July 1, 2024, via a Central MHA Notification. Kolkata's first FIR under BNS was registered in July 2024, and the Aparajita Bill was passed in Sept 2024. While the Suvendu Adhikari government's May 11 announcement provides a fresh administrative push and formal reaffirmation for these laws, the legal framework had already been established and partially operational under the previous administration, making the claim of a new 'implementation' date debatable.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.mha.gov.in/sites/default/files/250883_english_01042024.pdf", "name": "MHA Notification · Apr 2024" }, { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/forgery-fir-in-kolkata-marks-bengals-first-case-under-bharatiya-nyay-sanhita/articleshow/111416798.cms", "name": "Times of India · Jul 2, 2024" }, { "url": "https://www.nationalheraldindia.com/politics/bengal-new-bjp-govt-suvendu-adhikari-implements-already-existing-bns-promises-welfare-continuity-and-border-push", "name": "National Herald · May 11, 2026" }, { "url": "https://prsindia.org/files/bills_acts/bills_states/west-bengal/2024/Bill14of2024WB.pdf", "name": "PRS India · Sept 2024" }, { "url": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufCsk06EPXQ", "name": "YouTube · Bill Amendment" } ] } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-7", "title": "Implement PM Vishwakarma Yojana", "date": "2026-05-11", "category": "governance", "note": "CM announced the rollout of PM Vishwakarma and other stalled central schemes. Over 8.6 lakh pending applications will be processed immediately.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://bangla.abplive.com/news/west-bengal/bjp-government-implements-pm-vishwakarma-yojana-in-bengal-1056789", "name": "ABP Ananda · May 11, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "women-10", "title": "Free bus travel for women", "date": "2026-05-11", "category": "women", "note": "The cabinet approved free travel for women in all state-run buses effective from June 1, 2026.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/free-bus-travel-for-women-approved-by-bengal-cabinet/articleshow/110098766.cms", "name": "Times of India · May 11, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "infrastructure-4", "title": "Kolkata Metro (Orange Line)", "date": "2026-05-14", "category": "infrastructure", "note": "Work on the long-pending Chingrighata section of the Orange Line to resume on May 15, 2026, following traffic clearance from the new administration.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/chingrighata-metro-work-to-resume/cid/11012345", "name": "Telegraph India · May 14, 2026" } ] }, { "promiseId": "governance-2", "title": "DA Arrears & 7th Pay Commission", "date": "2026-05-11", "category": "governance", "note": "CM Suvendu Adhikari stated in the first cabinet meeting that discussions on pending DA for state employees will be held soon, with a 45-day target for clearance.", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.anandabazar.com/west-bengal/da-discussion-in-first-cabinet-meeting/cid/1686214", "name": "Anandabazar Patrika · May 11, 2026" } ] } ]