PrintFriendlyWest Bengal, once a cultural and intellectual hub of India, seems to be losing its sheen under the governance of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) led by Mamata Banerjee. What was once a state known for its literary brilliance, artistic endeavors, and progressive thought is now grappling with a disheartening erosion of its cultural fabric and socio-economic potential. The alarming rise in crimes against women, the neglect of tribal regions, and a stagnating economic environment highlight the pressing need for change. Under the stewardship of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her party, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), the state has witnessed a disturbing erosion of its traditional values and safety net for women, casting a shadow over its illustrious legacy. The decline is deeply rooted in an erosion of Bengal’s rich cultural heritage and a blatant disregard for initiatives that could uplift the state’s people The TMC’s governance has fostered an environment of suppression, where even central social initiatives aimed at benefiting the common citizen have been obstructed for narrow political gains.
Rising Crime Against Women
The increasing instances of violence against women in both urban and rural areas paint a grim picture of law and order in the state. Shocking incidents, such as the appalling crimes reported in Kolkata hospitals and the brutal assaults in Sandeshkhali, underscore the worsening law-and-order situation. These incidents highlight a grim reality: women in Bengal no longer feel safe in their own state.
What makes this decline even more distressing is that it is happening under the leadership of Mamata Banerjee, a woman chief minister. Her government’s failure to address these issues not only reflects poorly on the administration but also betrays the trust of millions of women who once saw her as a beacon of hope. The lack of stringent action against perpetrators and the absence of comprehensive policies to ensure women’s safety have emboldened criminals and left women vulnerable.
The Erosion of Bengali Culture
Bengal has long been a beacon of cultural pride, home to luminaries like Rabindranath Tagore, Swami Vivekananda, and Satyajit Ray. However, the current regime’s focus appears to be more on populist policies and identity politics rather than preserving and promoting the state’s rich heritage. Festivals and cultural events are often politicized, and initiatives that could foster cultural growth are either underfunded or mismanaged. The spirit of intellectualism and debate that once defined the state now faces suppression under a culture of political intolerance. TMC’s divisive politics and misgovernance have fostered an environment of cultural decay. Traditional values that once defined Bengali society have been overshadowed by corruption, political violence, and a lack of accountability. This erosion is not just a political failure but a cultural tragedy.
Stifling Economic Growth
Economic stagnation is another major concern under the TMC’s leadership. Despite possessing immense potential for industrial and business growth, Bengal lags behind other states in attracting investment. The left-leaning ideology of the ruling party, reminiscent of its predecessor’s policies, continues to hinder pro-business reforms. Bureaucratic red tape, lack of incentives for startups, and an aversion to large-scale industrial projects have turned away potential investors. For a state blessed with strategic geography and a skilled workforce, this is a missed opportunity that affects millions of lives.
Neglecting Tribal Regions
Tribal areas in Bengal face acute neglect, with poor infrastructure, lack of healthcare facilities, and inadequate educational opportunities. The government’s failure to address these issues perpetuates cycles of poverty and underdevelopment. Reports of atrocities against women in these regions further underline the absence of effective governance and a compassionate approach to marginalized communities.
Lessons from BJP-Led States
In stark contrast, states governed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have made significant strides in women’s empowerment and safety. Initiatives like the “Ladli Behna Yojana” in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra have provided economic support to women, helping them achieve financial independence and dignity. These schemes demonstrate how proactive governance can create an environment where women feel respected and empowered.
The BJP’s focus on policies that prioritize women’s welfare stands in sharp contrast to the TMC’s approach. Bengal could benefit immensely from adopting such initiatives, ensuring not just the safety but also the socio-economic upliftment of its women.
Suppression of Central Initiatives
The Modi government at the center has launched numerous schemes to uplift the socio-economic fabric of the country, including Bengal. From Ayushman Bharat to Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, these initiatives have the potential to bring tangible benefits to the people. Yet, in an anti-socialist and self-serving manner, the TMC government has often resisted the implementation of these programs in Bengal.
For instance, the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme, which promises free medical treatment to millions of underprivileged families, was obstructed by the TMC. The reason? The central government’s branding on these schemes threatened to overshadow the state’s narrative. Such actions reveal a prioritization of political rivalry over the welfare of Bengal’s people. This suppression of central initiatives is not just governance failure; it’s an ethical lapse.
Anti-Socialist Governance
The very foundation of socialism lies in the equitable distribution of resources and opportunities for the welfare of the masses. However, Mamata Banerjee’s governance model has consistently deviated from these principles. The state’s economic policies have failed to create sustainable jobs, leading to mass migration of Bengal’s youth in search of better opportunities. Industries have struggled to thrive due to lack of infrastructure and political interference, further contributing to the state’s economic downslide.
Moreover, the TMC’s tenure has been riddled with allegations of corruption, from the Saradha chit fund scam to irregularities in relief distribution. Such governance erodes public trust and deepens inequality, undermining the core tenets of a socialist framework.
Time for a Paradigm Shift
The people of Bengal have an opportunity to break free from the chains of stagnation and misplaced priorities. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) offers a fresh vision rooted in development, safety, and cultural rejuvenation. With its emphasis on economic growth, industrialization, and robust law enforcement, the BJP has the potential to transform Bengal into a state that embraces modernity while honoring its heritage.
States like Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh, under BJP rule, have seen significant strides in industrial growth, improved law and order, and better governance. A similar model could help Bengal unlock its true potential. By fostering a pro-business environment, encouraging startups, and ensuring safety for all citizens, Bengal can regain its status as a leading state in India.
Conclusion
West Bengal’s cultural and social fabric is at stake. The state’s historical legacy deserves governance that upholds its values, protects its citizens, and fosters growth and safety for all. The current trajectory under the TMC, marked by neglect and decline, calls for introspection and change.
For Bengal to reclaim its glory, it must prioritize the safety, dignity, and empowerment of its women while reviving the cultural ethos that once made it a beacon of progressiveness. Leadership that values accountability and vision, like that demonstrated in BJP-led states, could provide the roadmap Bengal desperately needs.
Author
(The views expressed are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect the position of the organisation)
