Kolkata, Feb 3: Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, firmly declared the imminent implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in West Bengal. Dismissing Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s objections, he asserted that neither she nor the Trinamool Congress possess the authority to impede the Act’s enforcement.
While clarifying his previous statement about the CAA’s implementation within a week, Thakur admitted it was a “slip of tongue.” He explained his intended message to be the finalization of rules for the Act, emphasizing the ongoing process.
Attributing the ongoing protests against the CAA to “sheer political reasons,” Thakur downplayed the state government’s stance. He highlighted the Act’s national significance and the central government’s responsibility in external affairs, rendering state-level objections inconsequential.
Reaffirming the BJP’s promise and the public’s demand for the CAA, Thakur expressed unwavering commitment to its implementation. This statement comes amidst Banerjee’s strong criticism of the BJP politicizing the CAA issue for electoral gains. She had questioned the need to rekindle religious sentiments when everyone enjoys citizenship rights and has participated in past elections.
The ongoing debate surrounding the CAA’s implementation in West Bengal highlights the differing perspectives of the central and state governments. While the central government prioritizes fulfilling its promise and addressing the Act’s national implications, the state government remains apprehensive about its potential impact. The coming days will likely see further developments in this ongoing political tussle.
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