CM Suvendu hints at delimitation in West Bengal
Kolkata (PTI): West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Friday hinted at the possibility of a delimitation exercise in the state, stating that the number of constituencies in the state could increase, requiring the construction of a new assembly building.
Adhikari made the remarks in the assembly after the election of Rathindra Bose as the speaker.
Addressing the House, he said the assembly infrastructure may need major changes in the coming years.
"There is a need for several reforms in the future. State government officials present here today are witnesses to this historic session. If delimitation takes place, the number of assembly seats may increase substantially. In that case, we may need to construct a new assembly building," he said.
Adhikari's remarks are being seen as significant with the Centre's attempt to push for a nationwide delimitation exercise.
A Constitution Amendment Bill to implement reservation for women in legislatures in 2029 and increase the number of Lok Sabha seats was defeated in the Lower House on April 17.
Adhikari's remarks have also triggered speculation about whether West Bengal could eventually witness a delimitation exercise similar to the one carried out in Assam in 2023.
Opposition parties in Assam had alleged that the exercise there reduced the significance of minority voters.
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
Vision Konkani felicitates 2025 Kendra Sahitya Academy Awardee HM Pernal in Mangaluru
NRI Entrepreneur, Philanthropist Michael D'Souza urges community to support Pernal's literary work
Mangaluru: Eminent Konkani writer and 2025 Sahitya Akademi awardee H. M. Pernal was felicitated at a grand function held at the Town Hall on Friday evening. The programme brought together literary figures, community leaders and admirers to celebrate Pernal's contribution to Konkani literature.
The felicitation ceremony was organised by Vision Konkani and presided over by NRI Entrepreneur and Philanthropist Michael D'Souza. Renowned Kannada poet and writer Jayant Kaikini attended as the chief guest.
The evening began with a musical presentation titled "Sitar Fusion" by Rafique Khan on sitar, Rajesh Bhagwat on tabla and Vaman Karkala providing rhythm accompaniment.
This was followed by a recital of H. M. Pernal's poems by Eddie Siqueira and Mahammad Muaad GM.
A special interactive session on "Celebration of Life and Literature" was later held with H. M. Pernal. The discussion was led by Shakuntala R. Kini and Wilson Kateel, offering insights into Pernal's literary journey and personal experiences.
During his address, Jayant Kaikini struck a humorous note by saying that the Konkan Railway Corporation Limited should reserve seats for Konkani writers. He said he was delighted that H. M. Pernal had received recognition for his literary work through the Sahitya Akademi award.
Kaikini expressed concern that while many people are writing poetry today, fewer are reading the works of established and accomplished writers. He noted that great artists throughout history have always shown interest in multiple forms of art rather than limiting themselves to a single field. Describing Pernal as an important pillar of Konkani literature, he said the writer's achievements deserved to be celebrated.
Presiding over the programme, Michael D'Souza said that quality is more important than quantity, and added that the same principle applies to literature. He called upon the community to support H. M. Pernal in his literary work and encouraged the veteran writer to continue serving the Konkani language. He also thanked all those who attended the event.
In his response, H. M. Pernal thanked the organisers, his family, community members and all those who had supported him over the years. He also shared his personal journey and recounted key moments from his life and literary career.
The programme included an introduction to the awardee, felicitation by the organising committee, and honours from various Konkani organisations.
Titus Noronha delivered the introductory remarks, while convener Melvyn Rodrigues proposed the vote of thanks.
The event concluded with a celebration attended by members of the Konkani literary community and admirers of H. M. Pernal.
