Bengal CM announces monthly aid for Netaji ‘seva kendras’, with riders

Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced on Wednesday that West Bengal lawmakers would establish 'seva kendras' (public service centers) named after freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose in each Assembly constituency. The initiative coincides with India's 80th Independence Day. In the state Assembly, Adhikari declared that the state would support every constituency with Rs 30,000 per month to operate these centers, provided they adhere to specific conditions.

The centers must only bear the name 'Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Seva Kendra' and display a portrait of Netaji in traditional attire. The state Information and Cultural Affairs Department will supply the portraits.

Adhikari set two conditions for receiving state assistance: the centers must strictly follow the naming and portrait requirements, and the Speaker will review these conditions. If the rules are not followed, the funds will not be disbursed. Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta will introduce a Bill in the upcoming Assembly session to facilitate the financial support, which Adhikari stated would be provided starting August.

The Chief Minister highlighted that over 100 such service centers have already been established across the state. He emphasized that these centers would serve the public, irrespective of their voting history, by offering essential services to their respective areas.

In a separate announcement, Adhikari increased the monthly medical allowance for former MLAs from Rs 6,000 to Rs 10,000, effective from August. He defended this move, noting that the previous government did not offer financial security to former legislators, many of whom dedicatedly served their terms. Adhikari also proposed an increase in the retirement allowance for former MLAs, which would be discussed in the next Assembly session and, if passed, would be implemented along with arrears starting August.

Additionally, addressing the flood situation in neighboring Assam, Adhikari proposed Rs 10 crore in aid from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. Conveying concern over the tragic loss of over 100 lives, he expressed a shared spiritual connection with Assam, noting that several states had pledged assistance. Adhikari assured that arrangements would be made to ensure the funds reach the Chief Minister of Assam promptly.