Kolkata, 21 April (H.S.): Ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections, CPI(M) state secretary Mohammed Salim on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the state government, the Centre, the Election Commission and sections of the media during a “Meet the Press” programme organised at the Kolkata Press Club. He made a series of remarks on the political, social and economic condition of the state.

In his address, Salim alleged that “mafia rule” was prevailing in West Bengal and political workers were being killed, while such incidents were not receiving due attention. He claimed that corruption had become institutionalised over the past 15 years and false cases were being filed against those who opposed it.

Questioning the role of the Election Commission, Salim said incidents of violence were taking place in several areas despite the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct, but no effective action was visible. Referring to the killing of a Left worker in Islampur, he accused the Commission of inaction. He also alleged failure in preparing a fair electoral roll, claiming names of genuine voters were being removed.

Targeting the central government, Salim said several misleading statements were being made due to a lack of understanding of history and tradition. Referring to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, he said Bengal had a distinct cultural identity and personalities like Netaji were unique.

He also questioned the role of sections of the media, alleging that some news platforms were being used for propaganda that was fuelling communal divisions. He further raised concerns over the alleged proximity between political consultancy firms and the government.

Expressing concern over the state’s economic and social condition, Salim said Bengal, once a leader in education, culture and people’s movements, was now facing crises in employment and education. He cited a large number of vacancies in government jobs and alleged lack of transparency and corruption in recruitment. He also raised the issue of distress among potato farmers.

On women’s safety, he said his party had released a three-phase manifesto from the block level to the state level ahead of the elections.

Responding to a question on Afreen Begum’s popularity, Salim said she was presenting herself as a representative of the new generation and was not a “political refugee” from the film industry or another party.

Taking a swipe at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s “Durga Angan” initiative, he said the government’s primary responsibility should be development in education, healthcare and infrastructure, rather than politics over temple or mosque construction.

Concluding the programme, Salim called for continuing the struggle against communalism and corruption, saying that a new Bengal would be built even with a wounded heart.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh