Will Business Flourish in Bengal If Industrialists Are Harassed by Central Agencies?
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Synopsis
In a powerful address, CM Mamata Banerjee advocates for industrialists' freedom, warning that persistent harassment from central agencies could deter investment in Bengal. She challenges the Union government's handling of GST funds and defends the state's progress against negative perceptions.
Key Takeaways
- Mamata Banerjee defends industrialists against central agency harassment.
- Emphasis on the importance of business security for economic growth.
- Criticism of the Union government’s management of GST funds impacting the state.
- Bengal’s progress as a significant logistics hub is highlighted.
- Rejection of negative narratives about Bengal.
Kolkata, December 18 (NationPress) West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee firmly stood up for the industrialists facing undue pressure from central investigative agencies.
While speaking at a business and industrial conclave in Kolkata, Chief Minister Banerjee expressed that without a sense of security, businesses will not thrive.
"When businessmen are constantly troubled by agencies, they are left in fear. How can businesses flourish under such conditions? They live in perpetual uncertainty. It is crucial for industrialists to operate freely; the government should not meddle unnecessarily in their affairs. We advocate for the freedom of industrialists," she emphasized.
Furthermore, she criticized the central government regarding the Goods and Services Tax (GST), stating that while it collects GST, it fails to return the rightful share to the state.
"Even shopkeepers are burdened with GST. States have lost their own tax revenues. We now have just one national tax. Initially, we thought it would benefit the country. I was encouraged by Amit Mitra (former Finance Minister of West Bengal) to support it. Now, explain to me why the Centre is withholding our GST share. My state has lost 20,000 crore which was meant for development and economic stability. Where is the advantage in this?" CM Banerjee questioned.
The Chief Minister also addressed those disparaging the state, asserting that efforts to malign West Bengal will not succeed.
"Some individuals aim to tarnish Bengal’s reputation, unaware of how much the state has transformed. Today, Bengal is a prominent logistics hub, serving as the gateway to South East Asia, East India, and the North Eastern states. It is strategically located amidst border states like Jharkhand, Bihar, and Odisha," she stated.
She underscored that West Bengal is a peaceful state, and the negative narratives circulating on social media are merely falsehoods intended to damage its image.
"There is a lot of misinformation on social media that aims to defame Bengal. I challenge anyone to prove otherwise; they cannot harm Bengal," she concluded.
Point of View
CM Mamata Banerjee's remarks highlight critical issues surrounding industrial freedom and government accountability. Her emphasis on the adverse effects of harassment on business investment resonates with many stakeholders. The ongoing tension with the central government over financial matters is a significant concern for the state’s development.
NationPress
19/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Mamata Banerjee say about industrialists?
Mamata Banerjee defended industrialists facing harassment from central agencies, stating that such intimidation prevents business growth.
How does the Union government handle GST funds?
Banerjee criticized the Union government for not returning the rightful share of GST to West Bengal, claiming a loss of 20,000 crore.
What is Bengal's current status in the logistics sector?
West Bengal is recognized as a leading logistics hub and serves as a gateway to South East Asia and the North Eastern states.
How does Mamata Banerjee respond to criticism of the state?
She asserted that attempts to defame Bengal are unfounded and highlighted the state's positive transformation.
What did Mamata Banerjee emphasize about the role of the government?
She emphasized that the government should not interfere excessively in the affairs of industrialists, advocating for their freedom to operate.
