KOKATA: In what may cause embarrassment to the Narendra Modi government, West Bengal governor Jagdeep Dhankhar on Saturday complained that dues amounting to Rs 4,000 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi have not reached farmers in the state even after the scheme's launch more than a year ago.
"Our farmers and soldiers are playing a significant role in our lives and we all need to salute them for their working in difficult situations. The dues of our farmers which are over Rs 4000 crore from the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM KISAN), have so far not been made available to them, ever since it was launched from Dec. 1, 2018," he stated in his Republic Day message.
Dhankhar elaborated, "I urge all concerned to take proactive steps so that they are not denied their due. We must end this injustice to farmers."
In a veiled message to chief minister Mamata Banerjee for her fierce stance against the Citizenship Amendment Act, Dhankhar said, "Our Constitution provides resolution of all disputes and issues between the state and the Centre. A path of confrontation between the two is not the way out. There must be coordination and we must work in that
direction."
He noted, "All people holding constitutional positions are required to set an example by acting within their limits and disregard is both dent and taint on democracy. Public funds are meant only for governmental purposes, and should not be conducted for furthering political objectives. We have seen unwholesome instances. We need to be reflective on
this."
As preparations for the municipal elections have started in the state, the governor underlined the people's right to vote. He observed, "It is time for us to reaffirm our values in the democratic process. The right to vote is basic to democracy. We need to have an atmosphere where there is full freedom to fearlessly exercise this right to vote and I am sure all of you will work in that direction. Violence is antithetical to democracy.
Dhankhar added, "Let us resolve in 2020 to have our state known for a peaceful environment. The last few years on this count have been worrisome."
He called upon government servants to avoid "unacceptable association with political outfits" and maintain "non-partisan" conduct. He added, "There is much to be done in that direction."
