Jan 31: Union Home Minister and senior BJP leader Amit Shah on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the West Bengal government, alleging intimidation of the Matua and Namasudra communities and accusing the ruling dispensation of corruption and political interference in a deadly warehouse fire case.
Addressing a workers’ conference at Anandpuri Playground in Barrackpore, North 24 Parganas district, Shah asserted that the Matua and Namasudra communities have no reason to fear and assured them of continued support from the Centre. He alleged that attempts were being made to create fear among these communities for political advantage.
Referring to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, the Union Home Minister said the exercise would continue in West Bengal irrespective of opposition from the state government. He stated that lawful administrative processes cannot be stalled due to political resistance and emphasised that governance reforms would move forward.
Shah also blamed the West Bengal government for non-cooperation in border security initiatives, claiming that fencing along sensitive border areas could not be completed due to the state’s lack of support. He warned that such delays have serious implications for national security and border management.
Turning to the Nazirabad warehouse fire tragedy in Narendrapur, South 24 Parganas, which claimed 27 lives, Shah demanded an impartial and transparent investigation. He alleged that the incident was a result of systemic corruption and administrative negligence under the ruling party’s watch.
Accusing the Chief Minister of indulging in vote-bank politics even after the loss of lives, Shah claimed that people with links to the ruling party were involved in the incident. He questioned why the owner of the warehouse, reportedly associated with a momo manufacturing unit, had not been arrested so far.
The Union Home Minister stressed that justice for the victims and their families must be prioritised over political considerations. He called for accountability and strict action against those responsible, stating that no one should be shielded due to political connections.
Shah’s remarks come at a time of escalating political confrontation in West Bengal, with the BJP intensifying its criticism of the state government over issues related to governance, public safety, border security, and alleged corruption. His statements are expected to further heat the political climate in the state ahead of upcoming political engagements.
