Amit Shah Unveils Major Promises for North Bengal, Targets Gorkha Issues and Language Rights
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, addressing election rallies in West Bengal on Wednesday, made a series of significant commitments aimed at addressing long-standing grievances in the northern regions of the state. Speaking in Jalpaiguri and Falakata, Shah outlined a comprehensive plan that includes legal, linguistic, and economic measures designed to resonate with local communities.
Withdrawal of False Cases and End to Police Raj
In a direct appeal to political workers across party lines, Shah pledged that a BJP government would systematically withdraw every false case lodged against them, putting an end to what he described as a "police raj" in Bengal. He specifically highlighted the plight of Gorkha representatives, who he said are facing hundreds of such cases, emphasizing that justice has been denied to these "true patriots" of Darjeeling.
Constitutional Recognition for Rajbanshi Language
One of the landmark promises made by Shah is the inclusion of the Rajbanshi language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. This move would grant it official language status in India, a demand long held by linguistic groups in north Bengal. Shah framed this as a step toward recognizing and preserving the cultural identity of the region.
Progress on Gorkhaland and Interlocutor Meetings
Shah revealed that the central government is actively working on a resolution to the Gorkhaland issue, for which an interlocutor has been appointed. He noted that three meetings have already been held in Delhi to find a solution, but criticized Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for refusing to participate. "The people of Darjeeling deserve their rights and justice," Shah asserted, underscoring the BJP's commitment to addressing this decades-old demand.
Economic and Security Measures for North Bengal
Accusing the state government of "stepmotherly" treatment toward north Bengal, Shah announced plans to raise the wages of tea garden workers by Rs 500 and form a dedicated battalion within the state police specifically for the region. These measures aim to boost economic welfare and enhance local security.
Women's Safety and Poll Violence Warnings
Highlighting incidents in RG Kar, Sandeshkhali, and Durgapur Medical College, Shah vowed to improve women's safety, promising that under a BJP government, "women would be able to roam freely even at midnight." He also issued a stern warning to Trinamool Congress workers against election-day violence, referencing an attack on BJP candidate Rathindranath Bose's convoy. "I am warning Trinamool's goons to stay indoors on April 23. Else they will be behind bars after May 5," he declared, pledging to end "mafia raaj" in the state.
These promises come amid intense campaigning for the upcoming elections, with Shah positioning the BJP as a force for change in Bengal, particularly in the neglected northern districts.
