Mamata Banerjee Expresses Concern Over Rising Potato and Onion Prices in West Bengal

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has raised concerns about the rising prices of potatoes and onions. She questioned why these vegetables, intended for local consumption, were being sold outside the state despite her instructions to maintain adequate stocks. Banerjee urged officials to investigate and report on the stock status immediately during a meeting at the state secretariat.

Banerjee alleged that potatoes and onions were being transported out of West Bengal through its borders. She instructed mandatory checks at state borders and intra-state entry points from other districts. Additionally, she advised the state police to work closely with railway police to monitor attempts to smuggle illegal arms.

Illegal Arms and Cyber Fraud Concerns

The Chief Minister claimed that 17-18 arms factories had been discovered by West Bengal Police in neighbouring Bihar. Regarding the tablet scheme, Banerjee accused gangs from Jamtara, Jharkhand, of involvement. "These gangs operate under the shelter of different political parties," she stated.

Thousands of students from state-run schools in West Bengal have fallen victim to a cyber fraud linked to the government’s ‘Taruner Swapno’ scheme. This scheme provides Rs 10,000 to Class 10 and 12 students for purchasing tablets. A Special Investigating Team (SIT) has been formed by the police to probe this matter and identify those responsible for defrauding students.

State Welfare Initiatives

Banerjee announced that 5,07,000 new beneficiaries have been added under the Lakshmir Bhandar scheme. She also mentioned that funds for the ‘Krishak Bandhu’ scheme would be transferred to farmers' bank accounts starting tomorrow. Surveys in areas affected by recent floods and Cyclone Dana have been completed, and compensation will be paid to affected individuals from next month.

The Chief Minister's directives aim to address both economic challenges and security issues in the state. Her focus remains on ensuring food security, tackling cybercrime, and supporting welfare schemes for citizens.