News Matrix

21-Year-Old Woman Found Dead in Siliguri; Harassment Allegations Under Investigation

A 21-year-old woman, Sarika Rajput, was found dead in her rented room in the Sarkarpara area of Siliguri on Sunday. Police from Bhakti Nagar Police Station recovered the body and sent it to North Bengal Medical College and Hospital for post-mortem examination. Following the incident, the deceased's younger sister lodged a written complaint against the owner and manager of a restaurant-cum-bar on Sevoke Road where Sarika worked, alleging prolonged mental and physical harassment. Police have begun an investigation into the allegations and are examining all aspects of the case. No official response has yet been issued by the establishment's management.

Students Attend Classes Amid Knee-Deep Waterlogging at Fulbari School

Students of Mahananda Barrage Primary School in Fulbari's Paschim Dhantala area were forced to wade through knee-deep water to attend classes after overnight rainfall inundated the school premises. The waterlogging, which locals say is a recurring problem during the monsoon due to inadequate drainage, submerged the school ground and approach road. Students complained that even light rainfall leads to flooding, often soaking their uniforms and bringing worms, leeches, and insects into the campus. Head teacher Abdul Halim stated that the school has been facing the issue for several years and urged authorities to take steps to improve drainage and ensure safe access for students.

Maintenance Concerns Surface at Gajoldoba’s Bhorer Alo Tourism Centre

Visitors and local residents have raised concerns over the condition of the Bhorer Alo Tourism Centre in Gajoldoba, a popular tourist destination in North Bengal. Overgrown bushes, unattended greenery, and maintenance issues have reportedly affected the appearance of the tourism complex, drawing criticism from visitors. Locals have urged the authorities to take immediate steps to restore and maintain the site, which is known for its scenic surroundings and attracts tourists throughout the year. Concerns have also been raised that inadequate upkeep could impact the overall visitor experience and the area's tourism potential.

Jalpaiguri’s ‘Brazil House’ Draws Crowds Again During FIFA World Cup 2026

With the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026, the famous ‘Brazil House’ in Jalpaiguri has once again become a major attraction for football enthusiasts. Known for its unwavering support for the Brazilian national team, the house has been decorated with Brazil’s colours, flags, and football-themed displays, drawing visitors from across the region. Every World Cup season, the residence becomes a local landmark, reflecting Bengal’s deep passion for football and the enduring popularity of Brazil national football team among fans in North Bengal. Residents and visitors alike have gathered to celebrate the football festival and capture photographs of the uniquely decorated home.

Stray Dog Allegedly Beaten to Death in Siliguri; Police Probe Underway

A stray dog was allegedly beaten to death in the Siliguri area of Dabgram's Ward No. 23, sparking concern among local residents and animal welfare advocates. The dog had reportedly bitten several people a day earlier, following which some residents allegedly attacked it with stones and bamboo sticks. The incident was reported to the Darjeeling District Legal Aid Forum, whose representatives alerted the police. Officers from Siliguri Police Station have launched an investigation, while the animal's carcass has been sent for post-mortem examination. Residents said the situation might have been avoided if authorities had been informed earlier about the dog's aggressive behaviour. Authorities are continuing their inquiry into the incident.

MLA Sikha Chatterjee Halts Toll Collection at Fulbari Bypass

MLA Sikha Chatterjee on Sunday intervened to stop toll collection at the Fulbari Bypass following complaints from drivers and commuters. Allegations had surfaced that toll fees ranging from ₹100 to ₹500 were being collected from goods and passenger vehicles travelling on the Fulbari–Ghoshpukur route in the name of the Siliguri Jalpaiguri Development Authority. After visiting the toll plaza, the MLA directed officials to immediately suspend the collection, stating that illegal toll charges would not be tolerated. The move was welcomed by transport operators and local residents, who claimed that despite paying fees, road conditions and maintenance had not improved.

60-Foot Maa Durga Statue Planned for Howrah Riverfront

A towering 60-foot statue of Maa Durga is set to be installed along Howrah's Hooghly riverfront as part of a major beautification and tourism development initiative. The project aims to transform the riverfront into a prominent cultural and tourist destination, enhancing the area's aesthetic appeal while celebrating Bengal's rich heritage and devotion to Maa Durga. Authorities expect the landmark attraction to boost tourism and contribute to the overall development of the riverfront region.

Indian Air Force Airlifts Re-NEET Papers to Ensure Security

In an unprecedented security operation, the Indian Air Force (IAF) deployed its transport aircraft, including a C-17 Globemaster, to airlift sealed NEET-UG re-examination question papers to various centres across the country, including Patna. The move was undertaken to prevent any possibility of paper leaks and to ensure the safe and timely delivery of examination materials. The operation forms part of enhanced security measures introduced after concerns over the integrity of the medical entrance examination, reflecting the government's commitment to conducting a fair and transparent exam process.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has announced the revival of the historic Eastern Frontier Rifles (EFR) and the recruitment of more than 1,000 Gorkha youths, with 30% of the posts reserved for women. The announcement was made during his visit to Kurseong on 16 June 2026.

Over 1,000 recruitment opportunities are proposed under the revived EFR.
The move is aimed at generating employment for Gorkha youth in the Darjeeling Hills.
The Chief Minister linked the EFR revival with a broader development plan for North Bengal, including tourism, infrastructure, healthcare, and skill development.
What is the Eastern Frontier Rifles (EFR)?

The Eastern Frontier Rifles is one of the oldest armed police forces in India. It traces its origins to the late 18th century and has been known by its current name since 1920. Today it functions as a state armed police force under the West Bengal Police, primarily handling law-and-order duties, riot control, and security operations.

Why is this announcement significant?

The EFR has strong historical and cultural ties with the Gorkha community of the Darjeeling Hills.
The recruitment drive could create substantial government employment opportunities in the region.
The announcement fulfills a long-standing demand from sections of the Hills for strengthening and expanding the EFR.

BJP-Sikkim has expressed deep concern over the alleged attack on Chandra Hang S***a and has demanded the immediate arrest of all the accused as well as a fair and impartial investigation into the matter.

According to a press release issued by the party, at around 10:00 a.m. on June 10, Chandra Hang S***a was returning home after dropping his children at school when he was allegedly attacked by three masked individuals near Rangyang Bridge under the jurisdiction of Sombarey Police Station. BJP stated that the attackers used stones and other weapons, causing serious injuries to S***a. He is currently undergoing treatment at Namchi District Hospital.

In the press release, BJP claimed that despite several days having passed since the incident, only one person has been arrested so far, while the other accused remain at large. According to the party, this has led to growing dissatisfaction among local residents.

BJP further stated that residents of Thongling, Muney Village, and Karthok visited Sombarey Police Station and demanded the prompt arrest of all those responsible, along with swift action in the case. The party expressed support for the villagers' demands and urged the police to treat the matter seriously, deploy additional personnel, and utilize special investigation teams to apprehend the remaining accused as soon as possible.

In the statement issued by party spokesperson Sange Gyatso Bhutia, it was noted that Sikkim has long been known as a peaceful state and that incidents of this nature raise concerns about public safety. BJP appealed to the state administration to take prompt action in order to maintain public confidence.