In a move that underscores the deepening political divide between the Centre and the West Bengal government, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has decided to skip Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming inauguration of three new Kolkata Metro routes on August 22. The event, scheduled to take place at Dum Dum, has become a flashpoint in the ongoing tug-of-war between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with Banerjee citing past experiences and political grievances as reasons for her absence.
🚇 Metro Expansion Meets Political Crossroads
The Prime Minister is set to inaugurate three key metro stretches:
- Sealdah–Esplanade section of the Green Line
- Hemanta Mukhopadhyay (Ruby Crossing)–Beleghata stretch of the Orange Line
- Noapara–Jai Hind Bimanbandar (Airport) corridor of the Yellow Line
These routes are expected to significantly improve connectivity across Kolkata, easing congestion and enhancing commuter convenience. However, the political narrative surrounding the event has overshadowed its infrastructural significance.
| Metro Line | Route Description | Length (Approx.) | Strategic Importance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green Line | Sealdah to Esplanade | 4.5 km | Connects major commercial hubs |
| Orange Line | Ruby Crossing to Beleghata | 5.2 km | Serves residential and tech corridors |
| Yellow Line | Noapara to Jai Hind Bimanbandar (Airport) | 6.1 km | Enhances airport access for commuters |
🧭 Mamata’s Reasons for Skipping the Event
Sources from Nabanna, the state secretariat, have confirmed that Mamata Banerjee will not attend the inauguration. The decision stems from multiple factors:
- Political Disrespect: Banerjee has previously attended central government events, but her party alleges that BJP supporters have used such platforms to create chaos and disrespect her publicly.
- Electoral Opportunism: TMC leaders claim that the metro projects were originally planned and funded during Banerjee’s tenure as Railway Minister. They argue that the BJP is now rushing to inaugurate them ahead of elections to claim credit.
- Bengali Identity and Migrant Harassment: The Chief Minister has been vocal about the alleged mistreatment of Bengali-speaking migrant workers in BJP-ruled states. Her absence is seen as a symbolic protest against what she calls “linguistic discrimination.”
| Reason for Absence | Description |
|---|---|
| Past Event Disruptions | BJP supporters allegedly disrupted previous joint events |
| Political Appropriation | Projects initiated by Banerjee now being showcased as BJP achievements |
| Cultural and Linguistic Protest | Protest against alleged harassment of Bengali migrants in other states |
🗣️ TMC’s Stand on the Metro Projects
Trinamool Congress spokespersons have reiterated that the metro routes being inaugurated were conceptualized and sanctioned during Mamata Banerjee’s stint as Railway Minister. They accuse the BJP of hijacking the narrative and turning a developmental milestone into a political spectacle.
Kunal Ghosh, a senior TMC leader, stated, “These projects were delayed for years. Now, with elections approaching, the BJP wants to use them for political mileage. The Chief Minister will not be part of such theatrics.”
🏛️ Centre’s Response and Railway Ministry’s Position
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw had formally invited Banerjee to the event via a letter dated August 14. The Railway Ministry maintains that protocol was followed and that the Chief Minister was duly informed.
Officials from the Centre argue that the inauguration is a national event and that the Prime Minister’s presence is aimed at showcasing infrastructural progress, not political rivalry.
| Stakeholder | Position on Event Participation |
|---|---|
| Mamata Banerjee | Declined invitation citing political and cultural reasons |
| Railway Ministry | Maintains protocol was followed |
| BJP Leadership | Accuses TMC of politicizing development |
| TMC Leadership | Claims BJP is exploiting projects for electoral gain |
🔍 Historical Context: Mamata-Modi Event Flashpoints
This is not the first time Mamata Banerjee has chosen to distance herself from central government events. In previous joint appearances, including one at Nazrul Mancha, Banerjee reportedly expressed dissatisfaction over the behavior of BJP supporters. Her decision to skip the Dum Dum Metro inauguration is seen as a continuation of her stance against what she perceives as political disrespect.
🧭 Strategic Implications Ahead of Elections
With the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections looming, every public appearance—or absence—carries strategic weight. Banerjee’s decision to skip the event is being interpreted as a calculated move to reinforce her image as a defender of Bengali identity and autonomy.
Political analysts suggest that the TMC is positioning itself as the voice of regional pride, while portraying the BJP as an external force attempting to impose its narrative.
| Political Strategy | TMC’s Position | BJP’s Counter-Narrative |
|---|---|---|
| Regional Identity | Emphasizing Bengali pride and cultural autonomy | National development and infrastructure focus |
| Migrant Welfare | Highlighting harassment of Bengali workers | Denying allegations, focusing on job creation |
| Project Ownership | Claiming original planning and funding | Showcasing execution and delivery |
🚉 Public Sentiment and Metro Expectations
Despite the political drama, Kolkata residents are eagerly awaiting the operationalization of the new metro routes. Daily commuters, students, and airport-bound travelers stand to benefit from the expanded network.
However, some citizens have expressed disappointment over the politicization of infrastructure projects. “We just want better transport. Why does everything have to be about politics?” said a commuter near Sealdah station.
📌 What Happens Next?
The inauguration will proceed as planned, with PM Modi expected to flag off the new metro services from Jessore Road station. He will then travel to Jai Hind Airport Metro station and return to Dum Dum for administrative and political meetings.
Meanwhile, Mamata Banerjee is expected to hold a parallel press briefing, where she may unveil new state-level transport initiatives or address the migrant welfare concerns that have dominated recent discourse.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and statements from government officials and party representatives. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not reflect any endorsement or political bias.
