Mamata Banerjee Addresses Encroachment and Teesta Treaty Issues in Howrah

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee chaired a meeting with the Howrah Municipal Corporation on Monday. She highlighted that the biggest problem in the city is encroachment on government land. Banerjee directed Howrah Police and the State Chief Secretary to investigate and take action against those responsible.

Banerjee stated, “Government land has been encroached upon, Howrah Police and State Chief Secretary are directed to investigate, and action will be taken against whoever is behind this.” She added that some people are taking and giving money for these encroachments.

She also addressed the issue of illegal construction in Howrah, questioning why it is not being demolished and accusing officers and police of being involved in extortion. Banerjee specifically mentioned Sujit Bose’s people encroaching illegally in Salt Lake and criticized the councillors for not working.

Additionally, Banerjee spoke about the Teesta Treaty, claiming that decisions are being made without consulting West Bengal. She said, “Anything is being done without talking to Bengal. There is no water in Teesta, yet water is being given to Bangladesh and that too without talking to us.” She announced plans to send a letter to the Prime Minister regarding this issue.

The Teesta River faces frequent floods and severe erosion during the monsoon, and a shortage of water in the dry season. Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra mentioned that a joint technical committee will discuss the renewal of the Ganges water sharing treaty and the conservation and management of the Teesta River with Indian assistance.