Bengal Govt to Give Rs 2 Lakh Aid to Families of 39 Who Died Due to SIR Panic: Mamata
Thirteen others who fell ill during the SIR exercise, including three BLOs allegedly burdened by "excessive workload", would also be given Rs 1 lakh each
Kolkata: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday announced a financial compensation of ₹2 lakh for each of the families of 39 people who died in fear of the Election Commission's special intensive revision (SIR) of the voters' list in the state.
She made the announcement after releasing Unnoyoner Panchali, a 15-year report card of her governance with loads of tall claims of achievements in various sectors, at the state secretariat Nabanna. The CM also informed that a compensation of ₹1 lakh would be provided to those admitted in hospitals for treatment after falling ill in the fear.
“A lot of people already died by suicide and pain fearing SIR. Among them were four booth level officers (BLO) also. Families of two BLOs were provided ₹2 lakhs each. We can provide it to the rest also if they want because many honourably refuse to accept it,” Ms Banerjee said.
She added, “13 people including the BLOs, who have been admitted to hospital with illness and injuries from suicide-bid, will get ₹1 lakh each. So far 39 people have died. Their kin would get ₹2 lakh each. This will send a message to them that our government is with them. It is our social responsibility.”
Seeking cooperation from the Centre, the Trinamul Congress supremo said with folded hands, “We want cooperation from you. We don't need any non-cooperation. Hope you can hear me. It is not a political meeting. All expect in cooperative federalism that the central and state governments will work together instead of fighting.”
She further stated that the next Bengal Global Business Summit would be held in a grand form after the next year's Assembly Election. Later the CM reached Murshidabad on a three-day tour which includes Malda also.