Mamata Banerjee slams Centre over welfare fund cuts, announces key North Bengal projects

On the second day of her three-day visit to Northern Bengal, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee strongly criticised the central government for halting funds meant for various state-run welfare schemes. She was speaking at a public service distribution event in Fulbari, Jalpaiguri.

In the wake of ongoing allegations, particularly from the BJP, that her administration had neglected North Bengal and failed to bring real development to the region, the Chief Minister presented data and details (to counter those claims).

She stated that despite the Centre stopping funds for crucial programs such as the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, and MGNREGA, the state government has continued these initiatives using its own financial resources. 

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“Even in the face of central neglect, North Bengal has seen significant development,” she said.

Addressing the issue of communal violence, Mamata Banerjee took a swipe at the BJP’s alleged use of divisive politics, without naming the party directly. She emphasised the need for peace and unity, drawing inspiration from Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam to promote communal harmony.

CM Banerjee said: 

“Those who incite riots are born to spread hatred. They do not care about people’s welfare. Riots burn homes, claim lives, and give politicians a chance to exploit the situation. I want peace, not riots.”

As part of her developmental roadmap for North Bengal, the Chief Minister announced a series of new projects. These include the construction of a skywalk at the Jalpesh Temple in Jalpaiguri and the restoration of the historic Morgan House in Kalimpong.

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While industrial development will be a major focus, special attention will also be given to revitalising the tourism sector. To improve connectivity in the region, she has declared a multi-crore investment for the construction of roads and culverts in various parts of Northern Bengal. The chief minister also revealed plans for an approach road in Falakata in Alipurduar at a cost of ₹60 crores.

She also announced the development of an industrial park on 77 acres of land, with ₹4 crores allocated for establishing an Utkarsha Kendra (Excellence Centre) in the Jalpaiguri Sadar block.

“Earlier, there was no real development in North Bengal. Since the Trinamool Congress came to power, numerous development projects have been undertaken. Today, North Bengal is progressing on all fronts,” she concluded.

India