Can Bengal Be Controlled From New Delhi? Mamata Banerjee Thinks Not
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Synopsis
In a bold statement, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee challenges the BJP's attempts to control the state from New Delhi. She highlights the plight of migrant workers in BJP-ruled states and promises to assist stranded tourists in Nepal. Discover her firm stance against oppression and her commitment to West Bengal's autonomy.
Key Takeaways
- Mamata Banerjee challenges BJP's influence on Bengal.
- Focus on the treatment of migrant workers in BJP-ruled states.
- The state government assures support for stranded tourists.
- Banerjee emphasizes the autonomy of West Bengal.
- She refrains from commenting on Nepal's internal issues.
Kolkata, Sep 10 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, asserted on Wednesday that the BJP and the Union government are attempting to exert indirect control over the state's governance from New Delhi, but she confidently stated that such attempts will be futile.
Simultaneously, she criticized the BJP's much-touted slogan of "double-engine governments" in states governed by the party.
"Let me remind you that Bengal cannot be coerced in this manner. The management of affairs in West Bengal will occur from Bengal itself. The Bengali-speaking migrant workers in BJP-ruled states are facing mistreatment and harassment. I too am curious about how much longer they will endure such treatment," Banerjee remarked while speaking at an administrative gathering in Jalpaiguri district, located in north Bengal.
She noted that there has not been a single incident of mistreatment or harassment against migrant workers from other states currently residing in West Bengal for their livelihoods.
"We embrace them, and unlike the others, we do not oppress them, even as they speak of double-engine governments," the Chief Minister stated, subtly targeting the BJP.
Additionally, she assured that the state government will make every effort to facilitate the return of stranded tourists from West Bengal currently in Nepal, which has been experiencing unrest in recent days due to Gen Z protests that have resulted in multiple casualties and the downfall of the K.P. Sharma Oli government.
"Our state will initiate plans to bring everyone back within a day or two. No one should rush and put themselves in danger. Our neighboring country is facing issues. I was awake all night at my office in Siliguri monitoring the situation. You can sleep soundly; we are here to look after you," the Chief Minister assured.
However, Banerjee maintained her position of refraining from commenting on the ongoing crisis in Nepal, asserting that addressing any external affairs is the responsibility of the Union government.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize Mamata Banerjee's strong stance against perceived overreach by the central government. Her commitment to West Bengal's autonomy and the well-being of its residents reflects a broader dialogue on state versus federal governance in India. This situation warrants further scrutiny as it unfolds, impacting not only local but national politics as well.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Mamata Banerjee say about BJP's control?
Mamata Banerjee stated that the BJP and the Union government are trying to exert indirect control over West Bengal from New Delhi, but she asserted that such efforts will not succeed.
How does Banerjee view the treatment of migrant workers?
Banerjee highlighted that Bengali-speaking migrant workers in BJP-ruled states are being tortured and harassed, contrasting this with the treatment of migrant workers in West Bengal, where she claims they are welcomed.
What assurance did she give regarding stranded tourists in Nepal?
Banerjee assured that the West Bengal government will arrange for the safe return of stranded tourists from Nepal within a day or two.
Why did she refrain from commenting on the situation in Nepal?
She mentioned that commenting on external affairs is the prerogative of the Union government and refrained from making any statements regarding the situation in Nepal.
What is the significance of the 'double-engine government' concept?
The 'double-engine government' refers to BJP's claim of enhanced governance in states ruled by them, which Banerjee criticized as a facade while highlighting the issues faced by migrant workers.
