Kolkata: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday lashed out at the BJP government at the Centre, for its attempts to create divisions among people and gave the call for its ouster in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.
"Do not support those who are trying to divide the country. You should vote for change. We want a new government at the Centre. Have faith in Trinamool Congress as we are always with the people," Banerjee said, addressing a public distribution programme at Sripur, Jamuria, in West Burdwan.
Banerjee said that the saffron party is trying to create violence and disturbance at different places in the country. "I will not let them create rift among the people for votes. We do not do so. Bengal is a place where people of all religions live in peace and harmony. People here are of different caste and creed but we celebrate all festivals together. This is the culture of Bengal," she reiterated.
She alleged that BJP is trying to bring in people from the neighbouring Jharkhand in an effort to create divisions among people. "People sporting saffron clothes on their foreheads are entering Bengal and trying to create disturbance. We have a cordial relationship with Jharkhand. It is our neighbouring state. If Bengal lives well then Jharkhand should also do so," she maintained. The Chief Minister's statement assumes significance, with Jamuria sharing its boundary with Jharkhand. It may be mentioned that in her efforts to garner support against BJP, Banerjee has already given the call for a mammoth rally at Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata on January 19, where around 20 parties opposing BJP will be joining.
Banerjee also touched upon the development work of her government and shared some of her future plans for further development. She launched a slew of new projects for the district and handed over government benefits to hundreds of beneficiaries.
Following the public distribution programme, Banerjee held an administrative review meeting for East and West Burdwan districts with district and state officials and took stock of the development work.