More tea gardens to be opened in north Bengal, says Mamata

 Hints Jonn Barla’s presence indication of her inclusive approach

RAJESH SHARMA, EOI, ALIPURDUAR, JANUARY 23: On the occasion of the 128th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose on Thursday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee presided over a government programme held at the Subhashini Tea Garden grounds in Alipurduar. During the event, she paid tributes to the national leader and also announced several development initiatives for north Bengal, particularly benefiting tea garden workers.

The Chief Minister outlined a series of welfare measures to uplift the lives of tea garden workers. The major announcements included housing under the "Chai Sundari" Scheme. A total of 438 houses were allocated to tea workers. Under "Banglar Bari Yojana," which is housing for all, 1.6 million beneficiaries had already received the first installment, with the second installment scheduled for June, she said. Tea garden workers would be given land ownership rights to ensure their security. A plan was also underway to open new tea gardens, creating employment opportunities in north Bengal, she said.

Addressing the issue of illegal encroachments in the Jaigaon area, Mamata Banerjee asked the district administration to act promptly. She said: “The overall development of Jaigaon is our priority. No illegal activity will be tolerated, and those involved will face legal action.”

The Chief Minister launched a scathing attack on the Centre, accusing it of neglecting schemes like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act. She said: “The Centre has failed to allocate adequate funds for welfare schemes. However, we will not beg for assistance. The State Government has independently introduced initiatives like the 'Karmashree Yojana,' benefiting lakhs of people.”

Mamata Banerjee remembered Netaji’s contributions, saying: “Netaji’s ideals guide us even today. It is unfortunate that his death remains shrouded in mystery. We must continue to draw inspiration from his vision for a progressive India.”

The event witnessed a political twist with the presence of BJP M.P. John Barla. While some analysts view this as part of a strategic move by Trinamool Congress to weaken the hold of the BJP in north Bengal, Barla dismissed the possibility of his joining the Trinamool. He said: “I was invited to this government programme, and my presence should not be politicized. I remain committed to the BJP.”

Adding a twist to the politically significant event of John Barla’s presence in a programme presided over by the West Bengal Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee portrayed his attendance as a testament to her government’s inclusive approach, stating, “We work for all, and our actions speak for themselves.”

The programme concluded with Mamata Banerjee reiterating her commitment to the development of north Bengal, especially focusing on tea gardens and border areas. She assured: “More tea gardens will be opened, and the State Government will continue to prioritize the welfare of the people.