Amidst the backdrop of controversies surrounding the Sandeshkhali incident and the subsequent investigation by the West Bengal Government, Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted about the historical identity of West Bengal as “Syama Prasad Mukherjee Pradesh” and a bastion of literature and culture, rejecting the characterisation of the State as “Sheikh Pradesh.”
In a staunch rebuke, CM Himanta declared, “West Bengal is a land of poets and profound literature, not Sheikh Shahjahan Pradesh,” underlining the imperative for prompts and equitable justices in cases like Sandeshkhali. He asserted that in Assam, “the treatment” meaning swift action and justice would have been guaranteed within 24 hours had a similar incident occurred.
Expressing concern over the conduct of the investigation, the Assam CM accused West Bengal Counterpart Mamata Banerjee of meddling with the ongoing CBI inquiry. He questioned the necessity of sting operations, stressing the importance of allowing legal proceedings to unfold unhindered, particularly in matters concerning justice for women. Himanta Biswa Sarma further questioned if the Bengal Government doesn’t trust in the judiciary system of Bharat.
CM Himanta additionally weighed in on the recent interim bail granted to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal the Supreme Court. He argued that such conditions undermine the dignity of individuals seeking bail and remarked, “No respectable person will accept this bail. What kind of bail is this that you can go but come back on June 2.”
Reflecting on the developmental works done in Assam under his leadership, CM Himanta Sarma highlighted achievements in quelling insurgency, eliminating terrorism, and fostering development, including the establishment of a semiconductor plant. He urged the populace of West Bengal to scrutinise the disparities in fuel prices and governmental employment benefits compared to Assam and Meghalaya.
“Why do government employees in West Bengal receive only 14 per cent DA while others receive 50 per cent?” asked the Assam CM, urging citizens to demand transparency and accountability from the West Bengal Government.
