Debate Over North Bengal's Inclusion in DoNER Ministry Heats Up

Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar's proposal to include northern West Bengal under the DoNER ministry sparked a contentious debate. TMC MPs condemned it as separatist, while BJP counterparts supported it. Majumdar argues the region's similarities with the Northeast justify its inclusion, yet TMC leaders vow West Bengal will remain undivided.

Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar's proposal to include northern West Bengal under the Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) ministry has sparked a storm of controversy. TMC MPs have vehemently denounced the move as separatist and vowed that the state will remain undivided. However, BJP counterparts argue the region's unique similarities with the Northeast justify its inclusion.

Majumdar, who also serves as the West Bengal BJP chief, suggested to Prime Minister Narendra Modi that northern West Bengal should be part of the Northeast while still remaining within the state. He claims that the region's distinct culture and significant tax contributions warrant special development attention.

TMC leaders, however, are not convinced. Sudip Bandyopadhyay insisted that Bengal will "never be divided," while Shatrughan Sinha dismissed the proposal as mere talk, questioning BJP's capacity to implement it. Nevertheless, BJP MPs like Anant Maharaj and Raju Bista see the move as a step towards rectifying historical injustices and boosting regional development.

(With inputs from agencies.)