Kolkata, 03 November (H.S.) :Addressing a massive public gathering in Siliguri on Tuesday, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari emphatically stated that the existence of West Bengal is impossible without North Bengal. Reaffirming the state government’s deep commitment to the comprehensive development of the northern region, he assured the public that Siliguri would soon receive a major educational institution. The Chief Minister pointed out that with an AIIMS coming up in Raiganj and a cancer hospital being established in Jalpaiguri, Siliguri also deserves a significant infrastructural boost. He indicated that if suitable land is made available, the government would seriously consider setting up an IIT or IIM in the city.

The Chief Minister was on a visit to Siliguri on Tuesday to attend a series of official and political programs. During his visit, he participated in a mega rally organized at Baghajatin Park under the slogan Save Democracy, Banish Anarchy, which witnessed a massive turnout of BJP supporters and party leaders. Addressing the rally, Adhikari expressed firm confidence that the BJP would maintain its electoral momentum in the upcoming municipal elections in Kolkata, Howrah, and Siliguri. Citing the party's recent by-election victories in Falta, Nandigram, and Rejinagar, he claimed that the BJP would replicate this massive success in the Kolkata and Howrah municipal polls. He asserted that the opposition would be entirely wiped out in Kolkata and Howrah, and further claimed that the BJP would secure a sweeping victory in the Siliguri Municipal Corporation elections scheduled for February 2027.

Speaking on the development of North Bengal, the Chief Minister highlighted that work is progressing rapidly on the fronts of tourism, infrastructure, and connectivity in the region. He emphasized the government's special focus on developing airports and enhancing railway facilities. Mentioning the extensive redevelopment of the New Jalpaiguri railway station, he assured that the state government is consistently working towards improving air connectivity. Adhikari announced that steps would be taken to operationalize the Hasimara airport in the Alipurduar district by April-May 2027. He also shared plans for the development of airports in Kalaikunda and Balurghat in the subsequent phase, followed by the proposed development of the Purulia airport in 2028. The Chief Minister also mentioned Malda in the context of the state's comprehensive airport development plans.

Adopting a stringent stance on crimes against women, the Chief Minister informed that special public prosecutors have been appointed to expedite pending cases and ensure strict punishment for the culprits. He issued a stern warning that the government would take the harshest possible action against those involved in crimes against women and girls, reaffirming that women's safety remains the government's top priority.

Sharing details of his upcoming itinerary, the Chief Minister said he would attend a program of tribal communities in Kumargram, Alipurduar district, on November 18, and visit Cooch Behar on November 24 to inaugurate the Rash Mela. With the objective of promoting the state's rich traditional cultural heritage, Adhikari announced that the state's Information and Cultural Affairs Department has been directed to provide traditional musical instruments such as Srikhol, Mridanga, and Dotara to Bhawaiya artists. He confirmed that orders have already been issued to the department to distribute these instruments among the artists.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh