New Delhi: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, during her visit to North Bengal, a crucial region ahead of the state Assembly elections in 2026, heavily slammed the central government for not disbursing funds meant for several welfare schemes of the state. She criticised while speaking at an event of public service distribution at Jalpaiguri’s Fulbari.
The BJP, the main opposition party in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, has accused the ruling TMC government of neglecting North Bengal and failed to develop the region in true sense. However, CM Banerjee presented details, including data, to counter these claims.
According to CM Banerjee, the Centre has stopped funds for crucial programs like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, MGNREGA, and Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, and the state government has used its own funds to continue them. She said, “Even in the face of central neglect, North Bengal has seen significant development.”
Mamata Banerjee addressed the issue of communal violence
CM Banerjee also spoke on the issue of communal violence and made a statement without naming any party directly. She stressed the need to maintain peace and unity in society and pointed out the likes of Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam as inspirations to promote religious harmony. She 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.”
CM Banerjee also announced several developmental projects for North Bengal, including a skywalk’s construction at Jalpaiguri’s Jalpesh Temple and the historic Morgan House’s restoration in Kalimpong. Apart from industrial development, special attention will be given to rejuvenate the tourism sector, a major source of income for North Bengal. She has declared a multi-crore investment to construct roads and culverts there to improve the region’s connectivity.
Also, she revealed plans for an approach road in Alipurduar’s Falakata, which will cost Rs 60 crores. Moreover, she announced the establishment of an industrial park on 77 acres of land. She said while North Bengal witnessed no real development earlier, the TMC, since coming to power, has undertaken many development projects, resulting in overall progress of the region.
