West Bengal Minister Says 43% of Poll Promises Fulfilled

PTI, August 26, 2026, Kolkata : West Bengal Urban Development Minister Agnimitra Paul on Wednesday asserted that the ruling BJP has already fulfilled "43 per cent" of its poll promises since coming to power in May.

Paul was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the CREDAI 'Kolkata Techcon 2026' here.

"Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has already fulfilled 43 per cent of promises made in the poll manifesto," she said, without elaborating.

Paul also expressed confidence that corporate investment would pick up pace in the state.

"The government is working on the ground for development, and we expect industries to come in a big way," the minister stated.

State Industry Minister Tapas Roy had earlier said the government is likely to come out with separate policies for land and industry to attract investments. The proposed industry policy will incorporate measures to boost exports, too, Roy had said.

Paul also outlined a vision for transforming Kolkata into a "thriving smart metropolis", and urged the real estate sector to contribute to the process. She asserted that West Bengal was witnessing development across sectors such as affordable housing, hospitality, warehousing and logistics.

The minister called for greater adoption of modern construction technologies, including digital engineering and smart building solutions, to reduce costs and augment safety.

Paul on Wednesday also expressed confidence that the BJP will win the upcoming civic polls in the state, saying people could not be misled by controversies and misinformation as they were aware of the need for development.

"After a huge mandate (in Assembly polls), I do not foresee any change in people's mindset to have any other 'decision'. People may accuse, but they know it is only BJP who can bring development," Paul said.

Her remarks came amid a controversy over her interaction with a woman during an anti-encroachment drive on Park Street, where the minister faced opposition criticism for questioning the woman about heating milk for her child on the roadside.

The minister later acknowledged that she may have spoken harshly and should perhaps have explained her position better.

Paul, however, said she stood by her position on keeping footpaths clear and accused former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of politicising the episode.