West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday announced the formation of five new cultural and development boards for Scheduled Tribe (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Scheduled Caste (SC) communities in the state. The move aims to strengthen the socio-economic and cultural development of these marginalized groups.
The Trinamool Congress-led government has proposed boards for one SC, two ST, and two OBC communities. The ST communities selected are Munda and Kora, while the OBC communities are Kumbhakar and Sadgope. The sole SC community for which a board will be established is the Dom community. These boards are intended to protect the unique languages, traditions, and customary rights of the communities while promoting education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.
CM Banerjee highlighted the importance of these communities to West Bengal’s cultural fabric. “My heartiest congratulations to all of them,” she said in a statement shared on her official social media channels. “These boards will safeguard their traditions while bringing socio-economic growth and ensuring inclusive development.”
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The announcement comes amid recent tensions between the state government and the Central government, particularly over the alleged breach of protocol during President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to West Bengal. Observers noted that the move could reinforce the state’s commitment to tribal and marginalized communities while emphasizing the government’s focus on regional development.
Banerjee also recalled that in 2013, her government had established similar cultural and development boards for weaker communities to ensure their holistic development. “Our commitment to ‘Ma, Mati, and Manush’ remains unwavering. Our goal is to bring a smile to every face through inclusive progress,” she said.
BJP leaders in West Bengal have criticized the announcement, alleging that it is a political gimmick ahead of the upcoming state assembly elections and a response to criticism over the President’s visit. Despite the political debate, the government maintains that the new boards will create meaningful opportunities and promote the welfare of the targeted communities.
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