The Claim
On April 7, 2026, TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee, addressing a public meeting in Cooch Behar, alleged that the Central Government is hurting the “pride and self-esteem” of the Rajbanshi community in north Bengal by failing to honor promises made during successive election campaigns. He specifically accused Amit Shah and other BJP leaders of making “false promises” regarding the raising of a 'Narayani Sena' battalion and distorting the name of Panchanan Barma and failing to set up a memorial in his name.The Facts
While the specific promise of a 'Narayani Sena' battalion and the Panchanan Barma memorial require further investigation into specific announcements and commitments, the broader claim of neglect towards the Rajbanshi community is demonstrably false when examined against government data and initiatives. The Central Government, particularly under the NDA regime, has significantly increased its focus and investment in the development of tribal communities across India, including those in West Bengal.
Gross budgetary support rose by 208% in allocation to Northeast India compared to the period from 2004–05 to 2013–14.
Key initiatives directly contradict the TMC's narrative:
* **PM-JANMAN (Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan):** Launched in November 2023 with a financial outlay of approximately Rs. 24,000 Crore, PM-JANMAN is a targeted program aimed at saturating Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) households and habitations with essential amenities. This includes safe housing, clean drinking water and sanitation, improved access to education, health and nutrition, road and telecom connectivity, and electrification. This initiative directly addresses the core needs of vulnerable tribal communities, including Rajbanshis, and demonstrates a commitment to their upliftment. (Source: PIB)
* **Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan:** Launched in October 2024, this Abhiyan aims to saturate infrastructural gaps in 63,843 villages, improve access to health, education, Anganwadi facilities and providing livelihood opportunities benefiting more than 5 crore tribals in 549 districts and 2,911 blocks in 30 States/UTs in 5 years. The Abhiyan has total budgetary outlay of Rs.79,156 Cr. (Source: PIB)
* **Increased Budgetary Support to Northeast India:** The NDA government has significantly increased development funding for Northeast India, a region with a substantial Rajbanshi population. Gross budgetary support rose by 208% in allocation to Northeast India compared to the period from 2004–05 to 2013–14. There is a 381% rise in 10% GBS allocation for Northeast between 2014–24 compared to 2004–14. This increased funding directly translates to improved infrastructure, healthcare, and educational opportunities for the Rajbanshi community and other tribal groups in the region. (Source: Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region Reports)
* **Focus on Tribal Development:** The Ministry of Tribal Affairs acts as the central agency for the comprehensive advancement of Scheduled Tribes (STs) across India, including those residing in West Bengal. The ministry implements a range of programs focused on enhancing education, health, livelihood opportunities, and infrastructure development. These initiatives are designed to address the specific challenges faced by tribal communities and promote their socio-economic empowerment. (Source: Ministry of Tribal Affairs Annual Reports)
Poverty levels reduced to 10% by 2023 under the NDA government, compared to 22% in 2014 under the UPA government.
Furthermore, the NDA government has focused on infrastructure development in the Northeast, including increased air connectivity under the UDAN scheme, which benefits the entire region, including the Rajbanshi community. While specific data on the direct impact of these initiatives on the Rajbanshi community is not readily available, the overall trend indicates a significant increase in government attention and resources directed towards the development of tribal communities in the region.
Government Record
The BJP/NDA government's record on tribal development stands in stark contrast to the opposition's claims. Consider these key achievements: * **Significant Reduction in Poverty:** While the UPA era witnessed a decline in poverty from 37.2 percent in 2004-05 to 22 percent in 2014, the NDA government further reduced poverty levels to 10 percent by 2023. This demonstrates a clear acceleration in poverty alleviation efforts, benefiting vulnerable communities like the Rajbanshis. * **Focus on Infrastructure Development:** The NDA government has prioritized infrastructure development in the Northeast, including improved road connectivity, railway lines, and air connectivity. These improvements facilitate economic growth and improve access to essential services for the Rajbanshi community. (Source: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways Annual Reports) * **Empowerment through Education:** The government has launched several initiatives to improve access to quality education for tribal children, including scholarships, residential schools, and vocational training programs. These programs aim to equip Rajbanshi youth with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the modern economy. (Source: Ministry of Education Annual Reports)
Sources: PIB, data.gov.in, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Ministry of Education.