Mamata: PM Modi Insulted Bengal by Calling Us ‘Thieves’
Mamata Banerjee slams PM Modi for insulting West Bengal.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee unleashed a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a government event in Bardhaman, accusing him of disrespecting her office and the state’s people by labeling them “thieves.” Speaking at a program distributing social welfare benefits in Purba Bardhaman, Banerjee expressed shock at Modi’s remarks, demanding mutual respect for their respective positions. “I respect his chair, and he should respect mine,” she declared.
Banerjee’s fiery response came after Modi, at a Kolkata rally on August 22, claimed that “corruption, crime, and the Trinamool Congress are synonymous,” alleging that central funds for West Bengal’s welfare schemes are siphoned off by TMC cadres. Banerjee called the remarks an “insult” to the state’s people and a deflection from corruption in BJP-ruled states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Bihar, where she claimed malpractices are rampant under “double-engine” governments.
The chief minister accused the central government of withholding funds, placing a “heavy burden” on West Bengal’s finances. She asserted that her administration had transparently addressed all queries regarding fund utilization, with 186 central teams finding no evidence of corruption. “How can a student accept zero marks after answering all questions?” Banerjee questioned, vowing not to tolerate the slight against her state.
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Banerjee further criticized Modi’s frequent election-time visits to West Bengal, likening him to a “migratory bird” who appears only when votes are at stake. She highlighted her government’s commitment to welfare, citing the distribution event as evidence of TMC’s focus on public service despite financial constraints imposed by the Centre.
The escalating war of words underscores deep tensions between the TMC and BJP, with Banerjee positioning herself as a defender of West Bengal’s dignity. As the state gears up for future polls, her bold retort signals a fierce political battle ahead, with the TMC chief determined to counter what she sees as baseless attacks on her administration’s integrity.
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