Kolkata, 07 March (H.S.): Actor and senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Mithun Chakraborty on Saturday expressed concern over the law and order situation in West Bengal, stating that the safety of people has become the biggest issue in the state.

Addressing a press conference at the BJP’s state office in Salt Lake in connection with the party’s Parivartan Yatra, Chakraborty said that ensuring the safety of women and common citizens would be the top priority if the BJP forms the government in the state.

He said the situation had deteriorated to the point where even the state’s chief minister had advised women not to step out at night, calling it a worrying sign for a healthy and secure society. Recalling the past, he added that there was a time when people in Kolkata could move around freely late at night without fear, but that environment no longer exists.

Raising the issue of increasing violence and instability, Chakraborty alleged that incidents of murder, bomb attacks and political violence had become almost routine in West Bengal. He said a state once known for its peace and cultural heritage is now facing a deeply troubling situation.

On the issue of border security, he said a large portion of West Bengal’s long international border remains unfenced and vulnerable. According to him, the Union government had repeatedly requested land to strengthen border security, but the state government had not taken adequate steps in this regard. As a result, he said, the possibility of illegal infiltration through the border has increased, which could affect the state’s social and political balance.

Chakraborty also alleged that an atmosphere of fear and intimidation was being created in the state ahead of elections. He pointed to incidents of bomb blasts, clashes and attacks on opposition political programmes in several areas, saying these developments had raised serious concerns.

He said the BJP wants to carry out its political programmes peacefully but has repeatedly faced obstacles.

Criticising the state government on economic and administrative issues, Chakraborty referred to the pending payment of dearness allowance to government employees. He said that while large sums were being spent in different sectors, legitimate dues of employees were yet to be cleared. If the BJP comes to power, he said, steps would be taken to protect the interests of government employees and efforts would be made to implement the Seventh Pay Commission.

On the issue of youth and unemployment, Chakraborty said that allowance-based measures alone cannot provide a lasting solution and stressed the need to create employment opportunities and promote self-reliance among young people.

He added that the BJP is now far more united and organisationally stronger than before, and that the Parivartan Yatra is reflecting a growing desire for change among people across different parts of the state. He expressed confidence that the party would form an alternative government in West Bengal with public support in the upcoming elections.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh