New Delhi, June 9 -- Commenting on the CID raid at the residence of Mamata Banerjee, BJP leader and minister Agnimitra Paul said that the development had demonstrated that everyone is accountable under the law and the Constitution of India.
Speaking to mediapersons at Bagdogra Airport while returning to Kolkata, Paul alleged that Mamata and the Trinamool Congress had acted as though West Bengal was beyond the purview of the country's constitutional and legal framework. "It has once again been proved that no one is above the law or the Constitution. The TMC believed West Bengal was a separate country where the Constitution and laws of India did not apply. Now the CID has entered her house," she said.
"If some think that they are indispensable, then they are wrong, the public have the last word. Abhishek Banerjee could also be arrested if the law demands. Running away or resigning from posts won't save any of them. We will investigate each and every wrongdoing and the perpetrators will be brought to book," warned Paul.
The minister was on a tour of North Bengal and returned to Kolkata on Tuesday evening. During her tour, she visited Siliguri, Darjeeling, Mirik and Jalpaiguri. "Investigation will take place. Houses have been built on wetlands, over canals and culverts. Even party offices have been constructed on such land. Private properties have been encroached upon; government land has been occupied, and illegal structures have been built. Every Urban Local Body has been instructed to issue notices against all such illegal constructions," stated the Minister in Jalpaiguri.
Following the review of the AMRUT project in Jalpaiguri, the minister stated that the supply of potable water will be augmented.
"Already 16000 connections have been provided through the AMRUT project in the 25 Municipal wards. Another 5000 connections will be provided soon. During her visit, Paul inspected the municipal drinking water project near the Teesta Bridge and directed officials to ensure the timely supply of treated water to all wards." Stressing transparency, she said: "Drinking water connections must be provided strictly as per government norms. Any complaint regarding unauthorised beneficiaries should be thoroughly investigated."
At the Balapara dumping ground, the minister expressed concern over the accumulation of garbage and ordered the speedy disposal of legacy waste.
The minister further instructed officials to upgrade passenger waiting sheds, strengthen action against illegal parking and identify government land for dedicated parking zones.
Addressing the issue of trafficking and unsafe migration in tea garden areas, Paul said: "Women must be empowered through self-help groups, skill development and better marketing support.
Awareness campaigns should be intensified at both the household and school levels to prevent trafficking."
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.