kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; Kolkata, August 1: The BJP government in West Bengal is working towards development, industries have started showing interest in the state, but complete elimination of extortion has still not been possible. This message was delivered by BJP West Bengal state president Shamik Bhattacharya, who admitted that there are still certain “deviations” within the system and urged party workers to remain cautious.

Shamik Bhattacharya made these remarks on Saturday while attending the special ‘Udyami Samagam’ programme at the IIT Kharagpur Research Park in Rajarhat, Kolkata. During the event, he spoke about the state’s progress in sectors including development, education, and industry. Along with highlighting the government’s achievements, he also addressed the issue of extortion and warned party workers against any activities that could damage the image of the administration.

The BJP state president admitted that although efforts have been made to bring changes in Bengal, the problem of extortion has not been completely eliminated. His statement has been viewed as an internal assessment of the party’s performance after coming to power in the state.

During the previous Trinamool Congress government’s tenure, allegations of widespread corruption had repeatedly emerged. It was claimed that industrialists and entrepreneurs were becoming reluctant to invest in Bengal due to concerns over governance and business conditions. According to political observers, the state gradually lost its position as an attractive destination for development and investment.

After the change in government, the BJP administration has been taking several initiatives focused on development and economic growth. The state government has been promoting a “double engine” model, with both the central and state governments working together. The government claims that industrialists have started showing renewed interest in Bengal and efforts are being made to improve sectors such as healthcare, education, and industry.

The administration has also repeatedly emphasized a policy of “zero tolerance” towards corruption. Political analysts believe that restoring investor confidence and improving governance will be key factors in bringing Bengal back to its previous position in terms of economic and social development.

BJP leadership has also been warning its own workers against involvement in corruption or illegal activities. The party has stated that action will be taken against anyone facing serious allegations.

Speaking on the issue, Shamik Bhattacharya urged BJP workers to move away from the political culture that existed during previous governments. He said that the party must free itself from practices that have created a negative image in politics.

Admitting that some problems still exist, Shamik said, “There are deviations. Those among us who had hidden ambitions are now becoming active.” He warned party workers that politics should not become a tool for personal benefit.

He further stated that society needs to move beyond excessive political interference in every aspect of life. According to him, unless West Bengal can come out of this culture of political influence, no government will be able to bring real change or attract large-scale investment.

Shamik Bhattacharya said that political involvement has entered almost every sphere of society and Bengal needs to overcome this situation to create a better environment for development. He emphasized that attracting investment requires a stable, transparent, and corruption-free system.

Reports have suggested that major organisational changes may take place in the Bengal BJP before Durga Puja. The party’s central leadership is reportedly planning restructuring across different levels to make the organisation stronger and more effective in West Bengal.

Since the BJP is currently in power in the state, the leadership is focusing on better coordination between administration and party organisation. Along with bringing forward new leaders, efforts are being made to make the party structure more active at the grassroots level.

As part of the organisational reshuffle, several district presidents may be replaced. There are also reports that complaints have been received against some lower-level leaders and workers, and action may be taken against those found involved in wrongdoing.

In this backdrop, political circles are discussing whether Shamik Bhattacharya’s remarks were a warning to party workers and leaders ahead of the expected organisational changes. His comments about extortion and internal correction have sparked fresh discussions within Bengal’s political landscape.