August 2, 2024
Samirul Islam’s Zero Hour mention demanding from the government a special financial package for north Bengal, to not even think about dividing Bengal and giving Bengal its legitimate dues
Sir, I would like to speak on that topic in my mother-tongue, Bengali. Respected Deputy Chairman Sir, Bengal comprises of Darjeeling Hills in the north and Bay of Bengal in the south, this is my Bengal, our Bengal. Hon. Chief Minister, Mamata Bandyopadhyay, after assuming office, tried her best to usher in development in North Bengal and will continue to do so. However, the Central Budget clearly shows, leave aside development of north Bengal, thatno allocation has been made in the General Budget for the devastating Ganga erosion of Malda, flood control of Teesta, or the development of Darjeeling Hills and tea gardens. Had the Central Government been really sincere about the prospects and development of North Bengal, it would have given a special package to the state for North Bengal. Sir, there is something wrong at the very inception. The Central Government which is not releasing the poor tax payers’ money amounting to Rs. 1,71,000 crores due to the State Government, what has it to do with North Bengal or South Bengal. This Government, after being defeated by the people of Bengal time and again, is now trying to take revenge on them. So it is trying to create an atmosphere of uncertainty in the state. We have to keep in mind that divisive politics can never succeed in making a nation or its people prosperous. Through you Sir, I demand an exclusive Special Package for the people of North Bengal. The Prime Minister of India had visited Bengal on the eve of the election and he had said that he loves Bengal deeply and he wishes to take birth in Bengal in his next life. Through you Sir, I would like to know from the Prime Minister that if he really loves Bengal so much, why isn’t he releasing the dues of the State at the earliest. In conclusion, let me say that even with all your might..
