Bengal’s guarantee is protected lifelong, Delhi’s guarantee is uncertain, says Mamata Banerjee

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee (Photo:ANI)


Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday pledged lifelong benefits for the state’s citizens under various government projects while criticising the policies of the Central government.
Asserting the reliability of the Bengal government’s guarantees, Miss Banerjee emphasised the state’s commitment to providing sustained support to its people. The chief minister was addressing a gathering in West Midnapore,
Miss Banerjee highlighted the extensive reach of Bengal’s initiatives, citing the Lakshmir Bhandar programme which ensures benefits for all women in a family. “When the Bengal government is giving ‘Guarantee,’ it will be fully protected for lifelong, but the Delhi’s ‘Guarantee’ is uncertain” she said.
Miss Banerjee contrasted Bengal’s approach with that of the central government, particularly pointing out the recent shift in LPG gas policy. She criticised the BJP-led government for initially promising free LPG gas to the poor, only to impose a price of Rs 1000 later on. This move, she argued, left many vulnerable citizens struggling to afford essential resources.
Criticising the BJP, Miss Banerjee said: “Some people come during elections and advertise. But even when people die, they are not cared for. The Centre claims that they are providing water to every house. Is it true? But the state government is buying the land, laying pipelines and doing maintenance. This apart, the state is paying another 40 per cent of money. Actually, we give 70 per cent. And they give only 30 per cent.”
Miss Banerjee showcased Bengal’s progress, highlighting the transformative initiatives undertaken by her government. She underscored the significance of her administration’s projects, emphasising their long-term benefits and assuring lifelong protection to the citizens of Bengal.
While alleging neglect towards Bengal on the part of the Central government, Miss Banerjee lambasted the BJP for what she deemed false promises and inadequate support, particularly in crucial sectors like housing and infrastructure.
Refuting accusations of misappropriation of funds, she presented detailed figures to illustrate the state’s contributions and challenged the central government to acknowledge Bengal’s achievements.
Miss Banerjee exuded confidence in her party’s hold in Bengal, affirming that the Trinamul Congress would continue to dominate the state’s political landscape.
She declared her unwavering commitment to job creation and industrial growth, citing the burgeoning prospects in regions like Midnapore and promising sustained development across the state.
Remembering the days of  violent anarchy in Junglemahal, Miss Banerjee said: “Once Junglemahal people were worried to come out from their houses. I have seen Chamkaitala, Garhbeta, Keshpur where people were killed. The CPI-M harmads used to restrict me from going from one place to another. But, after coming to power, we have stopped everything. Now people move everywhere fearlessly. They can plough their field, go to school, colleges and do business. Junglemahal is now laughing. What more can you expect from me? We have developed every sector in Junglemahal.”
Miss Banerjee said: “Those CPI-M harmads are now the ustads of BJP. They try to destabilise the peaceful situation. But we will not allow them to do it.”
Miss Banerjee came down heavily on the BJP, condemning their actions in Kharagpur. She highlighted the dire situation in the area, where before the elections, residents in the rail colony faced severe hardships such as water and electricity cuts, along with threats from goons. These individuals coerced residents into voting for the BJP, warning of eviction if they didn’t comply, she pointed out.
In response, Miss Banerjee issued a stern challenge, declaring that such tactics wouldn’t be tolerated. She vowed to stand with the people of Kharagpur, urging them to unite democratically against such intimidation. Assuring them of administrative support within the bounds of the law, she emphasised the importance of standing up to such injustices and ensuring a fair and democratic electoral process.
Highlighting her government’s proactive stance on infrastructure development, Miss Banerjee announced plans for a freight corridor linking Raghunathpur-Dankuni-Haldia, which is poised to catalyse industrial growth along strategic corridors. She reiterated her administration’s commitment to projects like the Ghatal Master Plan, emphasising self-reliance in the face of central government apathy.