Kolkata, March 7: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday raised concerns over alleged atrocities against tribal communities in BJP-ruled states, accusing the Centre of engaging in politics ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.
Speaking at a protest rally on the second day of her demonstration against alleged voter roll deletions during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) drive, Banerjee questioned why no action was being taken when such atrocities occur in states like Madhya Pradesh or Chhattisgarh.
"Why is there no protest when tribals face atrocities in BJP-ruled states? Why no action in Madhya Pradesh or Chhattisgarh? Before making any statements, take action for the tribals. Don’t indulge in election-time politics under the BJP's guidance," she stated.
Banerjee’s remarks came in response to President Droupadi Murmu’s comments about the 9th International Santal Conference. The President expressed disappointment over the choice of venue for the event and the difficulties faced by many members of the Santal community in attending it. She also voiced her concern about the absence of West Bengal's Chief Minister from the event.
In her response, Banerjee accused the Centre of disregarding the concerns of several communities, including minorities and scheduled castes. "You never took a stand for the minorities, scheduled castes, Buddhists, Punjabis, Parsis, Jains, or even Hindus. You’re experts at playing politics, but we are not," Banerjee remarked.
Banerjee also announced that leaders from her party would seek an appointment with the President to present the state government's efforts for the welfare of tribal communities. "I will instruct Derek and Sudip to request a meeting with the President to share the work we’ve done for the tribal people, especially the Santali community," she added.
The West Bengal CM further urged the President to examine the conditions in BJP-ruled states before making any comments on West Bengal. "Before criticizing West Bengal, look at the situation in BJP-ruled states. It's wrong to comment based on one party’s viewpoint," Banerjee emphasized.
President Murmu, speaking earlier at the conference, suggested that the event could have been held at a larger venue to allow greater participation from the Santal community. "When I attended the conference, I felt the venue was too small for such an important event. The area is vast, and they said the place was congested, but I believe it could have easily accommodated five lakh people," the President said.
President Murmu also expressed regret over the absence of the state leadership at the event. "When the President visits, it is customary for the Chief Minister and other ministers to attend, but Mamata didi was absent," she remarked. The President also conveyed her personal connection to Bengal, saying, "I am a daughter of Bengal. Mamata Didi is my younger sister. I don't know if she was upset with me, which is why she wasn't present."
The exchange between Mamata Banerjee and President Murmu highlights ongoing political tensions in the state, especially as both parties prepare for upcoming electoral challenges.
