Kolkata: Mamata Banerjee, Chief Minister of West Bengal, on Friday announced the constitution of five new cultural and development boards for Scheduled Tribe (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Scheduled Caste (SC) communities in the state.
The CM Banerjee-led All India Trinamool Congress government has set up cultural and development boards for one SC, two ST, and two OBC communities in Bengal.
Boards for Munda, Kora, Kumbhakar, Sadgope and Dom Communities
While the two ST communities for which the proposed cultural and development boards will be formed are Munda and Kora, the two OBC communities selected in the matter are Kumbhakar and Sadgope. The lone SC community selected on this count is Dom.
Political observers find this announcement quite significant amid the recent tiff between the Centre and the West Bengal government over the alleged breach of protocol during the visit of Droupadi Murmu, who herself hails from a tribal background.
Aim to Preserve Culture and Promote Development
Announcing the decision to constitute these five new cultural and development communities, CM Banerjee stated that these communities were integral to the vibrant social fabric of Bengal.
“My heartiest congratulations to all of them,” said CM Banerjee in a statement posted on her official social media handle on Friday.
“These boards will protect their unique languages and traditions while ensuring better education, healthcare, and jobs. They will safeguard customary rights and bring further socio-economic growth,” she added.
Government’s Continued Focus on Inclusive Growth
In her statement, Banerjee pointed out that in 2013 the West Bengal government under her leadership had established several similar cultural and development boards for weaker communities to ensure their overall progress.
“Our commitment to ‘Ma, Mati, and Manush’ means we remain dedicated to ensuring no community is left behind. Our goal is simple: To bring a smile to every face through inclusive progress and unwavering support,” she said.
BJP Calls the Move a Pre-Election Gimmick
Meanwhile, leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party have criticised the announcement, alleging that the move is a political gimmick ahead of the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections scheduled later this year.
They also described the decision as an eyewash amid criticism faced by the state government over the alleged breach of protocol during President Murmu’s recent visit to the state.