A pavement-dwelling woman at the center of a major political controversy after being reprimanded for heating milk on a Park Street footpath unexpectedly arrived at the state BJP office with her child on Tuesday. The incident follows a widely circulated video involving Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Minister Agnimitra Paul, who sternly checked the woman for using a stove on a busy walkway.

The confrontation drew sharp criticism from opposition circles, prompting a heated political debate across the state regarding urban eviction drives and the welfare of marginalized residents.

Direct Intervention and Assurances

While leaving the state party office following a public grievance session, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari was approached by the distressed mother holding her baby. Visibly emotional during the interaction, the woman spoke directly with the leadership.

Addressing reporters shortly after, Adhikari stated that the woman expressed full trust in the administration. “Footpaths are meant for the public, and no one should be forced to live on the streets,” Adhikari noted, assuring that instructions would be given to the municipal corporation to arrange proper housing for the family.

Minister Defends Anti-Encroachment Drive

The controversy began when Minister Agnimitra Paul objected to open-flame cooking on narrow city pavements, citing severe safety hazards and the risk of accidents in crowded areas.

Defending the administration’s ongoing efforts to clear public walkways, Paul criticized political opponents for attempting to politicize poverty. Highlighting previous governance records, the minister emphasized that urban planning and pedestrian safety remain top priorities for maintaining public infrastructure and keeping city pathways clear.

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