Union Home Minister Amit Shah Blames Mamata Government for Anandpur Momo Factory Fire Tragedy
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has launched a scathing attack on the Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government over the devastating Anandpur Momo factory fire, terming it a direct "result of corruption" within the state administration. The tragic incident has claimed 25 lives with 27 individuals still reported missing, sparking nationwide outrage and political controversy.
Shah Questions Factory Ownership and Overseas Connections
Speaking at a Karyakarta Sammelan, Shah raised serious questions about the factory's ownership structure, substantial investments, and alleged overseas connections of the owners. "Why haven't the factory owners been arrested yet?" Shah demanded, accusing the state government of deliberately ignoring accountability while engaging in what he described as vote-bank politics that prioritizes political gains over public safety.
Demand for Judicial Probe and Warning of Future Action
The Union Home Minister called for an impartial judicial investigation into the entire tragedy, emphasizing the need for transparency and justice for the victims' families. In a significant political warning, Shah declared that once the Bharatiya Janata Party assumes power in West Bengal after the upcoming April elections, all those responsible for the fire tragedy will face strict legal action and consequences for their alleged negligence and corruption.
Allegations of Police Brutality During Protests
Shah also highlighted recent protests organized by BJP workers who attempted to meet with the families of the fire victims. He alleged police brutality during these demonstrations, claiming that state authorities used excessive force against peaceful protestors seeking justice for the affected families. According to Shah, this incident further demonstrates the deteriorating law and order situation under the current state government.
Political Implications and Broader Corruption Allegations
The Union Minister asserted that the Anandpur Momo factory fire has exposed deep-rooted corruption within West Bengal's administrative machinery. He criticized what he called the state government's consistent pattern of overlooking safety regulations and compliance standards, putting ordinary citizens' lives at risk for financial gains and political convenience.
This incident has become a major flashpoint in West Bengal's political landscape, with the BJP intensifying its criticism of the ruling Trinamool Congress government ahead of crucial state elections. The tragedy has raised serious questions about industrial safety standards, regulatory oversight, and political accountability in one of India's most politically significant states.
