TMC's Kunal Ghosh Slams Modi Govt Over LPG Crisis Ahead of PM's Kolkata Visit
In a sharp critique ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Kolkata, Trinamool Congress spokesperson Kunal Ghosh launched a scathing attack on the central government on Friday. Ghosh accused the Modi administration of consistently forcing citizens to endure long queues due to its flawed policies, citing the ongoing cooking gas shortage as the latest example.
"Hollow Promises" and Policy Failures
Addressing journalists at Trinamool Bhawan, Ghosh declared, "The only achievement of the Narendra Modi government has been compelling people to stand in queues on the streets. This pattern emerged during demonetization, continued with the SIR implementation, and now persists with LPG booking difficulties." He emphasized that empty assurances from the Centre hold no significance for Bengal residents grappling with the current gas crisis.
Ghosh attributed the spiraling LPG shortage directly to central government mismanagement, stating, "This escalating crisis stems entirely from the lapses, defective policies, and negligence of the Modi government. The Centre demonstrated a complete lack of foresight, endangering public welfare through hasty and stubborn decisions from demonetization to SIR and now this gas emergency."
Widespread Economic and Social Impact
The TMC spokesperson detailed the multifaceted consequences of the LPG shortage, extending beyond mere inconvenience:
- Constant anxiety among households about cooking arrangements
- Significant employment impacts across sectors
- Reduced earnings for individuals and families
- Declining revenues for hotels, restaurants, and the automotive industry
- Increased financial burden on consumers forced to pay premium prices
- Discontinuation of temple bhogs (offerings) that traditionally feed vulnerable communities
Ghosh noted, "The temple bhogs aren't solely about religious practice; they provide essential nourishment to society's most disadvantaged members. Their suspension represents another layer of hardship."
Empty-Handed Visit and Political Symbolism
Looking ahead to the Prime Minister's rally at Brigade Parade Grounds, Ghosh predicted another round of "false assurances and hollow promises." He asserted, "The PM will arrive empty-handed, without addressing Bengal's pending dues of 1.9 lakh crore or discussing crucial schemes like 100-day work, housing, and Jal Jeevan Mission for the state."
When questioned about the Dakshineswar-style podium prepared for Modi's address, Ghosh offered a pointed political analysis: "While BJP champions 'Poriborton' (change) rallies, this represents their genuine transformation. In 2021, their mantra was 'Jai Shri Ram.' By 2026, it's 'Ma Kali and Ma Durga.' By election conclusion, they'll inevitably adopt our 'Joy Bangla' slogans too."
The spokesperson's comments underscore the intensifying political tensions in West Bengal as the state prepares for the Prime Minister's visit amid ongoing governance challenges and policy disputes between the central and state administrations.
