Wed Mar 19 18:50:42 UTC 2025: ## West Bengal CM Defends State’s Healthcare, Criticizes BJP’s Hindu-Centric Campaign

**Kolkata, March 20, 2025** – West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee vehemently defended the state’s healthcare system on Wednesday, asserting that it provides treatment to all, regardless of origin. Her comments come in response to recent BJP campaign banners emphasizing Hindu unity and aiming for power in the 2026 state assembly elections.

Banerjee, speaking during the state budget presentation for the health department, rejected claims that West Bengal denies treatment to those from other states. She proudly declared the state’s health infrastructure the best in the country, citing a 14,000 increase in the number of doctors.

The Chief Minister directly addressed BJP’s “Hindu Hindu Bhai Bhai” slogan, questioning whether those promoting the message actually inquire about the well-being of patients from other states in hospitals. She contrasted this rhetoric with her government’s inclusive approach, emphasizing the state’s commitment to the ideals of Ram Krishna Param Hansha and Swami Vivekananda. Banerjee further criticized what she described as divisive and violent politics.

Banerjee also leveled criticism against the central government’s Ayushman Bharat healthcare scheme, alleging that 1.5 crore applications remain unattended. She contrasted this with the state’s own Swasthya Sathi scheme, claiming it has benefited approximately 9 crore people.

Further, the Chief Minister expressed concern over the alleged erosion of state government’s rights due to the central government’s control over taxation and the GST system. She expressed sorrow over recent crimes, including the rape and murder of a doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, re-iterating her commitment to justice for the victim. The ruling TMC’s IT and social media cell responded to the BJP campaign with counter-slogans of their own.

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