Half-truths: Mamata on PM-Kisan scheme

Shubhadeep Choudhury

Tribune News Service

Kolkata, December 25

War of words between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over “Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi” (PM-Kisan) scheme intensified on Friday with Banerjee accusing the Central government of violating the established norms regarding implementation of Central schemes by state governments.

Mamata’s outburst followed the allegation levelled against her by Modi of sacrificing the interest of farmers at the altar of politics.

‘Willing to cooperate’

My govt is always ready to cooperate in the interest of farmers. The state is implementing so many schemes with the Centre. The question of not cooperating on a scheme that is benefitting farmers seems absurd. —Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal Chief Minister

Speaking at an event today in which he distributed Rs18,000 crore to over nine crore farmers, Modi said while Mamata had expressed solidarity with the farmers protesting against new farm laws, she had blocked the implementation of the PM-Kisan scheme in West Bengal.

In response, Banerjee said PM Modi was trying to mislead people with half-truth and distorted facts.

“Let me set the record straight. We have always been ready to cooperate in the interest of the farmers. I personally have written two letters and have even spoken to the minister concerned two days ago but they are refusing to cooperate and are instead indulging in malicious propaganda for political gains,” said Banerjee.

Banerjee said when the West Bengal Government was implementing so many schemes in the state with the Centre, the question of not cooperating on a scheme that was benefitting farmers seemed absurd.