CM Mamata demands safe return of BSF jawan detained in Pakistan

Before departing for her Murshidabad visit, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched a series of pointed comments addressing several pressing issues. She spoke on the rise in communal tensions across India, the BJP's divisive policies, her government’s stance on the media and administration, and concerns regarding a missing BSF jawan from Bengal. Her comments came amid growing political discourse surrounding national security and governance.

Mamata began by asserting her position against communal politics, saying, “We do not support communal politics. That is my number one point.” She expressed dissatisfaction with the growing control exerted by the BJP, particularly regarding the media. “They (BJP) don’t even let anyone speak. Now, they’ve even ended the media’s freedom. They dictate what the media should say and what it shouldn’t,” she claimed. However, she refrained from further comments on the issue, stating she did not wish to elaborate further on media interference.

Turning her attention to governance, the Chief Minister accused the BJP of engaging in divisive politics. “I have already said—even though our party is in power, we have never ruled by dividing the country,” Mamata said, emphasizing her party’s approach to unity. When asked about her upcoming visit to Murshidabad, she responded, “I don’t know what exactly has happened there. Until the situation stabilizes, until peace returns, there is no question of going there and disturbing anyone.”

In regard to her planned trip to Jagannath Dham, Mamata clarified that the program had been scheduled long ago, but concerns about safety were preventing her from traveling by helicopter. “I often have to go to hill regions, but right now traveling by helicopter isn’t safe. Sometimes it’s rain, sometimes it’s stormy weather—natural disasters are making travel very difficult,” she explained.

Mamata also spoke on the misuse of the railway system under the BJP’s governance, accusing them of favoritism. “They rent trains, book entire coaches, and travel without issue. But when we booked a train for 100-days work programme, our workers were jailed at the last moment. I have served as the Railway Minister—I know how the system works,” she said. Mamata claimed that BJP leaders manage to get their way through various channels, including commissioners, engineers, and even ministers.

Addressing the ongoing issue involving Dhuliyan, Mamata said, “I know Dhuliyan intends to take everyone along. But according to rules, one must first deposit money with the government, and then we would have helped deliver the goods door-to-door. Now if someone doesn’t come to collect or isn’t present, there’s nothing we can do.” She assured that those who have returned or will return to the state would be supported through administrative channels.

In an emotional statement regarding a youth from DPPS stranded in Pakistan, Mamata expressed her concern, calling the situation “deeply painful.” She confirmed that the state’s welfare wing was in contact with the family and that the matter was being pursued at an official level, with hopes of his safe return. “We hope he can return home soon,” she said.

Looking ahead, Mamata hinted at several upcoming initiatives for the state, with a focus on projects for the poor, common people, and students. “We will hold public meetings, conduct discussions. Many projects are in the pipeline for the poor, the common people, and students,” she revealed, adding that Baudampur would be the next location for such initiatives.