West Bengal Launches Strict Administrative Drive Against Illegal Constructions

Following the establishment of a new government under Suvendu Adhikari, West Bengal has initiated a rigorous administrative campaign. Preparations are underway for a large-scale demolition operation in Siliguri to remove illegal encroachments and unauthorized structures. Raju Bista, the MP from Darjeeling, indicated that decisive actions will be taken soon, confirming that around two dozen bulldozers have been brought in from Uttar Pradesh to expedite the campaign. A significant administrative meeting was held at the Siliguri sub-divisional office on Thursday, attended by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Police Commissioner, Superintendent of Police (SP) of Darjeeling district, and several senior officials. The main topics of discussion included strengthening law and order, eliminating illegal constructions, curbing drug trafficking, and taking action against illegal liquor shops, bars, and pubs.

After the meeting, Raju Bista addressed the media, stating that a considerable number of unauthorized constructions have emerged in Siliguri, which will not be tolerated. He further mentioned that bulldozers from Uttar Pradesh are being deployed to ensure swift action against these illegal structures.

The MP criticized the functioning of the Siliguri Municipal Corporation, claiming it has completely failed to prevent illegal constructions throughout the city. He announced plans to meet with municipal officials soon to seek clarification on this issue. Bista warned that illegal encroachments on government land, riverbanks, and other areas of the city must be removed immediately; otherwise, the administration will resort to demolition using bulldozers. He also stated that strict actions will be taken against drug networks, illegal river mining, unauthorized toll collections, and land brokerage activities.

During the West Bengal assembly election campaign, BJP leaders repeatedly promised to implement the so-called 'Yogi Model' in the state. Under the leadership of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, demolition actions targeting criminal gangs and illegal encroachments have garnered national attention. This model is credited with improving law and order and curbing land mafia activities in Uttar Pradesh. The initiation of similar measures in Bengal is seen as a significant first step towards replicating this approach in the state.