Mamata Banerjee Unveils New Cultural Boards for Marginalized Communities in West Bengal

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced the formation of five new cultural and development boards to support marginalized communities in the state. These boards aim to protect unique languages and traditions while enhancing access to education, healthcare, and employment. This initiative comes ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, as the TMC seeks to strengthen its position against the BJP. The announcement follows a political controversy related to President Murmu's recent visit, highlighting the importance of community representation and support.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 13, 2026, 16:51 IST

New Initiatives for Cultural Preservation

On Friday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced the establishment of five new cultural and development boards aimed at supporting marginalized communities within the state. She emphasized that these boards will play a crucial role in safeguarding their unique languages and traditions while also ensuring access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.

Banerjee expressed her delight in making this announcement, stating, "I am pleased to share that our government will soon form five new cultural and development boards for the Munda (Scheduled Tribe), Kora (Scheduled Tribe), Dom (Scheduled Tribe), Kumbhkar (Other Backward Classes), and Sadgopa (Other Backward Classes) communities. These groups are integral to Bengal's vibrant culture, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations to them."

Objectives of the New Boards

She further elaborated that the primary goal of these boards is to protect traditional rights and promote socio-economic development within these communities. "These boards will ensure better education, healthcare, and employment while safeguarding their unique languages and traditions. They will protect traditional rights and foster socio-economic growth. Since 2013, we have established several boards for our vulnerable communities to ensure their holistic development," she noted in a post on social media.

Banerjee reiterated her commitment to the principles of 'Maa, Mati, Manush' (Mother, Soil, People), emphasizing that no community should be left behind. "Our aim is straightforward: to bring smiles to every face through inclusive progress and unwavering support. Jai Bangla!"

Political Context Ahead of Elections

This announcement comes in the lead-up to the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, where the Trinamool Congress (TMC) aims to strengthen its position against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which secured 77 seats in the previous elections and is looking to maintain its momentum. The decision follows a political controversy surrounding President Murmu's recent visit to West Bengal. During a Santhal conference held on March 7, the President expressed disappointment over the event's arrangements and questioned the choice of venue, noting that many members of the Santhal community could not attend due to its remote location. She also highlighted the absence of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and other state ministers at the event.