Naxalism
'Ultra-Naxalism still exists in Bengal': Agnimitra Paul recalls Jadavpur University 'attack' at Kolkata book launch
Kolkata/IBNS: West Bengal Minister Agnimitra Paul has spoken about the existence of what she described as "ultra-Naxalism" in the state, even as the central government claims to have eradicated Naxalism from the country.
Speaking at a book launch in Kolkata, Paul said, "Naxalism may largely have been eradicated, but ultra-Naxalism still exists, at least in West Bengal."
Paul made the remarks while launching BJP national spokesperson Tuhin A. Sinha's book Naxal Terror Vanquished in Kolkata on Tuesday.
Recounts Jadavpur University incident
Elaborating on her remarks, Paul recalled an incident from the early days of her political career during a visit to Jadavpur University.
An alumna of the prestigious university, she said she was gheraoed by thousands of students while attending a Freshers' Welcome programme organised by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), the student organisation affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the BJP's ideological parent.
"I experienced what I would describe as ultra-Naxal violence very early in my political career. I had gone to Jadavpur University to attend a Freshers' Welcome programme organised by the ABVP, along with then Union Minister and my former party colleague Babul Supriyo. I am also an alumnus of Jadavpur University.
"That day, I witnessed terror firsthand. I was new to politics. As I was entering the auditorium, some students allegedly began attacking me with flagpoles. My saree was torn, and I somehow managed to make my way inside. Jagdeep Dhankhar ji was the Governor at the time. We were gheraoed and trapped inside the auditorium for several hours. I still couldn't understand why that happened," she said.
Links remarks to PM Modi's development slogan
The Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Minister said she often wondered why some young people were "brainwashed" and linked it to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of inclusive development.
"I often wonder why some young people are brainwashed. Perhaps that is why Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks about 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. He truly believes in inclusive development.
"The governments that ruled the country for decades before this perhaps did not believe in development for everyone. That may be one of the reasons why sections of the youth were vulnerable to being misguided instead of being shown the right path in life," she added.
Other leaders present
Paul attended the book launch along with her cabinet colleague Tapas Roy, the state's Minister for Public Enterprises and Industries.
(Photos: Avishek Mitra/IBNS)
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