Former Minister says TMC made mistakes during its 15-year rule, but its development work cannot be denied

Kolkata, 24 July (H.S.): Trinamool Congress (TMC) rebel MLA and former minister Firhad Hakim on Friday said that no government remains in power forever and that every ruling dispensation is eventually subjected to public and political scrutiny. He made the remarks during the discussion on the Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Department's budget in the West Bengal Assembly.

Addressing the House, Hakim said the 15-year tenure of the Trinamool Congress government was not free from mistakes, but asserted that its contribution to development could not be dismissed.

There may have been shortcomings and mistakes during our tenure, but it would not be correct to say that no development took place, he said, adding that while governments can be criticised for their failures, their development initiatives should also be acknowledged.

Hakim also praised Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Minister Agnimitra Pal for her work, saying she was working with dedication and commitment.

Considering the way Madam is working day and night, I believe she will succeed in her responsibilities, he said.

Referring to the nature of democratic politics, Hakim remarked, Power is never permanent. Whether after 99 years, 200 years or even 500 years, a day will certainly come when your government, too, will be criticised in this very House. That is the natural course of democracy.

His remarks drew objections from some BJP legislators. Responding to the protests, Hakim clarified that he was not criticising the government.

I am not attacking anyone. In fact, I am trying to speak in your support. You are the ones forcing me into the role of an opponent, he said.

Hakim further observed that when the Trinamool Congress first came to power, it too believed it would govern for a long time. However, he said, a change in power is an inevitable and natural feature of a democratic system.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh