BJP MP Sukanta Majumdar's proposal to include North Bengal with the northeastern states for development funds has ignited a significant controversy. This move raises questions about the BJP's intentions in emphasizing Bengal's north-south divide and what the party aims to achieve in a region where it already has substantial support.
### Background of the North-South Divide
Historically, North Bengal has been distinct from the southern parts of the state due to its unique geographical, cultural, and economic landscape. North Bengal, with its proximity to Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, has a significant tribal and ethnic diversity that contrasts with the south. This region has periodically seen demands for greater autonomy or statehood, fueled by perceptions of neglect by the power center in Kolkata, located in the south.
### Sukanta Majumdar's Proposal
Sukanta Majumdar, a BJP MP from Balurghat in North Bengal, proposed that North Bengal be included with India's northeastern states while remaining part of West Bengal. He suggested that this inclusion under the Ministry of Development of the North Eastern Region (DoNER) would allow North Bengal to receive more development funds, benefiting various projects in the region.
Majumdar clarified that his proposal was not about dividing or separating the state but about ensuring more funds for development. However, his remarks were met with strong opposition from the Trinamool Congress (TMC), which labeled the proposal as "secessionist."
### Political Reactions
The TMC, led by spokesperson Riju Dutta, vehemently opposed the proposal, accusing the BJP of being "anti-Bengal" and "anti-Bengali." Dutta's reaction invoked historical sensitivities related to the partition of Bengal, emphasizing that Bengal had already endured significant pain during its division and that further division was unacceptable.
On the other hand, CPI(M) leader Ashok Bhattacharya supported Majumdar's idea, noting that similar proposals had been floated by CPM leaders over a decade ago.
### BJP's Strategy
The BJP's emphasis on the north-south divide in West Bengal appears to be a strategic move to consolidate its influence in North Bengal, where it has already made significant electoral gains. In the 2024 Lok Sabha election, the BJP won all seats in the north up to Maldaha Uttar, barring the Cooch Behar Seat, highlighting its stronghold in the region. By contrast, South Bengal remains a traditional TMC stronghold.
By proposing the inclusion of North Bengal with the northeastern states, the BJP may be attempting to leverage additional development funds to boost the region's infrastructure and economy. This could serve as a showcase of effective governance and development, potentially attracting voters in other parts of Bengal.
### The Perks of Inclusion with the North East
The northeastern states benefit from various central schemes aimed at promoting industrialization, infrastructure development, and economic growth. Typically, the central government contributes 90% of the funding for these schemes in the northeast, compared to 50% in other states. Inclusion in DoNER would, therefore, provide North Bengal with significant financial advantages for development projects.
### Conclusion
The BJP's proposal to include North Bengal with the northeastern states for development funds is a calculated political maneuver. It aims to address perceived neglect in North Bengal, leverage additional central funds for regional development, and solidify the BJP's stronghold in the region. However, this move has sparked intense opposition from the TMC, reflecting the deep-seated sensitivities and complexities surrounding Bengal's north-south divide.
