Agnimitra Paul attended a road safety initiative on Wednesday at Triveni Mor in Burnpur, where helmets were distributed to female motorcycle and scooter riders. Addressing media personnel during the event, she shared key perspectives on traffic safety hazards, environmental noise limits, financial audit disclosures, allegations surrounding medical facilities, and the overall law and order scenario in West Bengal.
Addressing Road Safety and Footpath Encroachments
Highlighting the critical need to reduce traffic casualties, she stated that road accidents account for a major share of fatalities and underlined that helmet usage must remain strictly mandatory for two-wheeler commuters. She further explained that reckless driving is not the sole factor behind rising road mishaps, noting that illegal encroachments along pedestrian footpaths significantly exacerbate risks. When footpaths are blocked by unauthorized occupations, pedestrians are forced to walk along main roadways, which sharply increases the likelihood of serious accidents.
Criticism Over Central Development Funds and Amphan Aid
Responding to queries regarding central welfare programs and Amphan cyclone relief funds, she raised strong objections to the decisions of the previous state administration. She alleged that the state government purposefully refrained from participating in central development schemes, federal competitions, and Amphan relief packages. According to her, state officials attempted to misinform citizens by deflecting blame onto the central government, but the complete factual reality will be revealed once the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report is formally presented in the legislative assembly.
Noise Pollution Standards and Guidelines for Commercial Establishments
Emphasizing strict enforcement against noise pollution, she announced that sound output exceeding 50 decibels will not be tolerated at religious sites, social functions, or public gatherings. She stressed that mandatory adherence to these acoustic limits will be ensured so that students preparing for examinations, elderly residents, and the general public do not face unnecessary inconvenience. Regarding proposals to display owners' names at hotels and eateries, she declined to offer detailed commentary, noting that no official government decision has been issued on the matter.
Response to CM Mamata Banerjee and Allegations Against Mission Hospital
Rebutting statements made by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee concerning state pensions, mining royalties, and frozen bank accounts, she asserted that ongoing inquiries will establish all facts, adding that financial assets could also face scrutiny if circumstances require. Addressing grave allegations concerning Mission Hospital in Asansol, where minor children were allegedly compensated to donate blood, she described such practices as deeply unethical and unacceptable if proven true. She assured the public of an impartial investigation and promised stern legal action against all responsible parties.
Stance on Extortion and Rejection of Party Switching Rumors
Taking a firm line on allegations of widespread extortion, she emphasized that no political figure or party activist holds immunity from the law regardless of political affiliation. She affirmed that administrative authorities will take decisive action against any reports of intimidation or illegal money collection, stressing that such activities will not be tolerated under any circumstances. In response to claims by Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Kunal Ghosh regarding Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators returning to TMC ranks, she dismissed the assertion, stating that the government remains focused on developmental priorities and will not divert attention to minor political squabbles.
Security Concerns Following Suvendu Adhikari Incident and Infiltration Issues
Commenting on the recent surveillance around the residence of Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari and the subsequent arrest of suspects, she raised serious concerns over regional law enforcement. She attributed deterioration in public safety to unchecked cross-border infiltration and vote-bank politics sustained through forged identification papers. She reaffirmed the administration's resolve to clamp down on criminal networks and maintain zero tolerance for unlawful activities across the state.
