Home Minister Amit Shah has accused the Mamata Banerjee-led government of West Bengal of engaging in appeasement politics and mismanaging state finances. Speaking at the ‘Parivartan Yatra Sabha’ in Mathurapur on March 2, he questioned the recent state budget allocations, highlighting what he termed a disparity in funding priorities.

Shah stated that while Rs 80 crore has been allocated for science and technology, which is essential for research and development, an excessive sum of Rs 5,700 crore has been earmarked for Madrasas. He emphasized that such an emphasis on Madrasas would not contribute to the development of West Bengal.

Rising Debt Concerns

Shah further highlighted the alarming debt situation in West Bengal, claiming it stands at Rs 8 lakh crore. He mentioned that this burden translates to Rs 77,000 for every newborn in the state. He argued that the mention of West Bengal tends to evoke images of corruption, linking it to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC). He accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of embezzling teacher salaries and implied that the TMC government’s image had been tarnished by various scams involving teacher recruitment and social welfare programs.

Critique of Political Leadership

The Union Home Minister criticized Banerjee for allegedly sending the Director General of Police, Rajeev Kumar, to the Rajya Sabha, despite his association with various controversies. Shah asserted that this was a sign of TMC’s desperation and suggested that the time for change in West Bengal was approaching. He expressed confidence that the BJP would soon take control of the state, portraying the current scenario as unacceptable.

Stance on Citizenship Amendment Act

In addressing the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), Shah criticized the opposition that the TMC had mounted against it. He asserted that had Banerjee supported the CAA, Bangladeshi refugees would have more easily obtained citizenship. Shah reassured Hindu refugees that the BJP government remains committed to protecting their rights and citizenship.

Comments on Infiltration and Religious Politics

Shah also remarked on what he described as a strategy by the TMC to cater to infiltrators for electoral gains. He dismissed the recent discussions about temple constructions in West Bengal as mere political posturing. Shah contrasted this with the BJP’s initiatives, such as the Ram Mandir and various pilgrim corridors, suggesting that the TMC had done little in this regard until pressured politically.

Comparisons within the TMC

He drew parallels between the actions of Humayun Kabir, a recent TMC expellee, and Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of misleading the public regarding the construction of religious sites like the Babri Mosque. Shah claimed that Banerjee’s actions were aimed at placating Hindu sentiments while managing internal party dynamics.

Upcoming Campaign Activities

The ‘Parivartan Yatra’ seeks to mobilize the electorate ahead of the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections. This extensive campaign is expected to cover more than 5,000 kilometers, featuring a combination of major rallies and smaller events, ultimately culminating in a significant rally at Kolkata’s Brigade Parade Ground, which will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

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