Kolkata, 07 June (H.S.) : West Bengal minister Agnimitra Paul on Saturday reacted sharply to the reported recovery of a large cache of arms from Sandeshkhali in the Basirhat region, claiming that the state’s administrative system had been “under the control of criminals” for years and is now undergoing a process of “cleansing.”

Speaking ahead of her visit to North Bengal, the Minister for Women and Child Development and Urban Development launched a strong attack on previous governments and the Trinamool Congress (TMC), alleging that inadequate monitoring in border areas and weak international border fencing had allowed criminal elements to flourish.

She stated that due to long-standing negligence, “the system gradually came under the control of criminals,” adding that the present administration has now begun corrective action. “A cleansing of the entire system is underway. The work of cleaning and reform has begun. It will take time, but the system will be fully cleaned,” she said.

Referring to the situation in Sandeshkhali, Paul said that such incidents reflect deep-rooted governance failures over the years. She also reiterated that strict action would be taken against those found guilty, asserting that no offender would be spared.

The minister also confirmed that her visit to North Bengal is aimed at reviewing the functioning of the Women and Child Development department. She noted that the monsoon season is approaching and recalled that North Bengal had witnessed severe flooding in the previous year, making on-ground assessment of preparedness essential.

Commenting on the broader political situation in the state, Paul pointed to a series of resignations from mayoral posts, councillors, MLAs, and other representatives in various municipalities and civic bodies. She alleged that this reflects instability within the ruling TMC.

Citing past statements by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee from 2013, she claimed that governance becomes difficult without party representatives in municipal bodies. She further alleged that public resources and relief materials were being recovered from the homes of certain leaders who had stepped down, accusing them of depriving people of their rights for years.

Reiterating her party’s stance, Paul said that development initiatives across West Bengal would continue without interruption, promising that benefits would reach every region, including the Darjeeling hills and other remote areas.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh