The GOI has been under attacks and scathing criticisms from multiple sides over the farmers’ protests. Under this situation, Home Minister Amit Shah rallied in Bengal, targeting the Mamata Banerjee government over its refusal of central funds under the PM-Kisan cash benefit scheme. Ms. Banerjee’s government had refused to implement the scheme of direct cash transfer to farmers.

Ms Banerjee, one of the staunchest critics of the BJP-led government, has been vociferous about the farm laws, suggesting that the BJP should either withdraw the farm laws or step down.

The TMC chief has repeatedly said that she supports the demands of farmers. In a series of tweets, she has even threatened to launch nationwide protests if the laws are not withdrawn.

“GOI must withdraw the anti-farmer bills. If they do not do so immediately, we will agitate throughout the state and the country. From the very start, we have been strongly opposing these anti-farmer bills,” she had said in one of the tweets.

The BJP is now pressing forward that West Bengal government refused for the direct cash benefit to farmers. The state had asked that the money, ₹ 6,000 annually to each farmer be routed through it. The centre had declined, saying that it would destroy the spirit of direct benefit transfer if money is routed through state government. From BJP chief JP Nadda to West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar, all have criticized the Chief Minister over the issue in the recent days.

Shah said, “After independence, Bengal would contribute one-third to the GDP. It has fallen ever since. Bengal’s contribution to industrial production right after independence was 30 percent. Now it is at 3.5 percent. In 1960, Bengal was one of the richest states in the country. In 1950s, Bengal produced 70 percent pharma products. Now it is around 7 percent. Bengal jute industries that gave employment to many are shut. Our sankalp is to make Bengal Shonar Bangla once again”.

Shah also expressed happiness about the induction of ex-Trinamool Congress leaders into the party led by Suvendu Adhikari.