New Delhi (Agency): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee addressed a real estate convention, STATECON 2023, where she claimed that businessmen across the country are facing harassment from central agencies similar to the challenges her family has encountered. While she did not explicitly name any political party, she referred to the situation as “political vendetta.”
Banerjee, who is often critical of the BJP-led central government, alleged that this harassment would persist until the desired “vendetta” is achieved. She encouraged businessmen not to succumb to pressure and advised them to take appropriate legal actions if they face challenges. Banerjee asserted that a section of the media is portraying a negative image of Bengal under political influence, wrongly suggesting a lack of development and only communal riots.
Asserting the state’s accomplishments, Banerjee stated that Bengal excels in various fields and is the number one state in terms of ease of doing business. She criticized media outlets that propagate negative narratives about Bengal, accusing them of being directed by certain individuals to defame the state. Banerjee expressed her determination to confront political challenges and called upon others to engage in political battles rather than targeting Bengal.
During her address, Banerjee extended a warm welcome to builders and investors, assuring them of support from the administration. She introduced online complaint options for direct communication with her and emphasized the state’s land policy shift from leasehold to freehold land. Banerjee mentioned that the government has a land bank and welcomed the Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India (CREDAI) to work under this policy.
Banerjee also urged builders to employ skilled construction workers from the state, offering a databank of referrals. She highlighted the importance of bringing back highly skilled workers who are often sent abroad for construction projects without adequate safety measures. Furthermore, Banerjee encouraged builders to contribute to housing solutions for economically challenged individuals in the state.
The STATECON 2023 event aims to showcase real estate opportunities in West Bengal to top realty companies from across the country. Banerjee’s address shed light on the challenges faced by businessmen, emphasized the state’s achievements, and encouraged collaboration between the government, builders, and investors to foster growth and development in the region.