Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata

Kolkata, Feb 19: The West Bengal Assembly was thrown into turmoil on Wednesday as BJP legislators staged a walkout after their demand for a discussion on an adjournment motion regarding the state’s tea sector was denied by the Speaker.

The motion sought a debate on the state government’s recent decision to allocate 30% of tea garden land for tourism development. BJP lawmakers strongly opposed the move and insisted on a discussion in the House. However, when their request was rejected, they erupted in protest, raising slogans and displaying placards before walking out and continuing their demonstration on the Assembly lawn.

BJP leaders have consistently criticized the decision to repurpose tea garden land, arguing that it threatens the livelihoods of workers and undermines the industry. Leader of Opposition (LoP) Suvendu Adhikari is expected to lead a rally in North Bengal on February 23, where he is likely to intensify his attack on the state government over this issue. The rally may also see the participation of Gorkha Janmukti Morcha leader Bimal Gurung.

The controversy unfolded as the Assembly prepared for debates on the state’s Budget proposals for the 2025-26 financial year, scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday. However, LoP Suvendu Adhikari will be unable to participate after being suspended from the House for a month on Monday over alleged unruly behavior. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is also unlikely to take part in the discussions.

Meanwhile, tensions escalated outside the Assembly as members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) staged protests against the Chief Minister’s recent remarks in the House, where she referred to the Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj as "Mrityu Kumbh." The protests led to scuffles between ABVP supporters and the police, with several demonstrators being removed from the area in police vehicles.