The political climate in West Bengal intensified on Monday as Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched a massive protest in Kolkata against the Centre’s State Industrial Region (SIR) policy. The move came on the same day that the SIR policy officially began in both West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. While the Centre described the policy as a major step toward economic growth, Banerjee accused it of threatening farmers’ rights and endangering local livelihoods.
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Mamata’s Protest Against SIR Policy
Mamata Banerjee led thousands of Trinamool Congress (TMC) supporters in a protest march from Dharmatala to Esplanade. The rally echoed with slogans demanding the withdrawal of the SIR policy. Banerjee said that the initiative, under the guise of industrialization, could lead to forced land acquisition and displacement of farming communities.
She declared that Bengal’s farmers would never allow their land to be taken for corporate profits. Banerjee reminded the crowd of the Singur and Nandigram movements, which had previously shaped Bengal’s political history. “We want industry, but not at the cost of our people,” she stated during her address.
The Chief Minister accused the central government of implementing the policy without consulting state authorities or local communities. She said the SIR scheme prioritizes big companies while neglecting the welfare of ordinary citizens. Her speech drew strong applause from the crowd, many of whom carried banners reading “Save Bengal’s Farmland” and “No to Forced Industrialization.”
Centre Highlights Economic Potential
The Centre defended the SIR initiative, saying it would boost employment, strengthen infrastructure, and make India more competitive globally. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry explained that the SIRs are meant to attract sustainable industries, modern logistics networks, and advanced manufacturing.
According to officials, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu were chosen for the launch because both states have high industrial potential. They added that all land acquisition processes will follow transparent procedures and that farmers will receive fair compensation. The Centre also assured that the project aims to strike a balance between industrial growth and environmental sustainability.
Despite these assurances, protests continued across several districts in West Bengal. Farmers in Hooghly, Howrah, and North 24 Parganas expressed fears of losing agricultural land. Many groups also claimed that the government had not adequately explained how land use would be managed under the new scheme.
Tamil Nadu’s Welcoming Approach
In contrast, Tamil Nadu welcomed the launch of the SIR policy. Chief Minister M. K. Stalin praised the initiative and said it aligns with the state’s industrial vision. He noted that Tamil Nadu has a strong manufacturing base and a skilled workforce ready to take advantage of the new industrial framework.
The Tamil Nadu government announced that the first SIR will be developed near Hosur. Officials expect the project to generate over 50,000 direct and indirect jobs. Environmental and social assessments will be carried out before construction begins.
While most industrial associations in Tamil Nadu have expressed support, some local organizations have urged the government to ensure fair compensation and sustainable development. They stressed that industrialization must not harm agricultural communities or ecological balance.
Political Reactions in Bengal
The protest in Kolkata has reignited political tension in Bengal. Opposition parties, including the BJP and CPI(M), criticized Mamata Banerjee for politicizing a national policy. They accused her of obstructing industrial growth in the state and warned that her actions could discourage investors.
The BJP’s state leadership argued that West Bengal has already lost several industrial opportunities due to the TMC government’s earlier opposition to similar projects. They said that the SIR model is essential for job creation and modernization.
Trinamool leaders countered these claims, stating that their protest is not anti-development. They argued that the SIR policy undermines the state’s autonomy and risks repeating the mistakes of past industrial drives. They also accused the Centre of imposing a “one-size-fits-all” model without considering local realities.
Mamata’s Call for Inclusive Growth
In her closing remarks at the rally, Mamata Banerjee said that Bengal supports industrialization that respects people’s rights. She emphasized the importance of sustainable growth that includes both urban and rural communities. Banerjee added that her government plans to develop new industrial parks under its own framework, focusing on small and medium enterprises.
She also announced that the state will soon organize an investment summit to attract green technology firms and agro-based industries. The aim, she said, is to create jobs while preserving the environment. Banerjee urged young entrepreneurs to come forward and help build a self-reliant Bengal.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed her commitment to protecting the interests of farmers, workers, and local businesses. She said her government will not allow any central policy to undermine the welfare of Bengal’s citizens.
Looking Ahead
As the SIR begins in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, both states present contrasting responses. Tamil Nadu’s government has embraced the initiative, viewing it as an opportunity to strengthen its economy. West Bengal, however, stands divided, with its leadership opposing what it calls a “corporate-driven plan.”
Analysts believe this issue could influence the upcoming national elections. While the Centre pushes for faster industrial growth, state-level politics may shape how these policies unfold. Mamata Banerjee’s protest has already sparked conversations about land rights, federalism, and the balance between growth and social justice.
The coming months will reveal whether the SIR policy can coexist with state interests and public sentiment. For now, Mamata Banerjee’s message remains clear: development must be inclusive, sustainable, and rooted in the welfare of the people.
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