Opposition parties agitate over 'political intolerance' in West Bengal

KOLKATA: Opposition parties today created a ruckus in West Bengal legislative Assembly over "political intolerance" and "attack" on opposition leaders.

The Congress had sought an adjournment motion on their party not getting permission to hold public meetings while the Left parties had sought the same over "violent attacks" on their leaders.

After the motion was rejected by Speaker Biman Banerjee, the Congress staged a walk-out while the Left parties protested by shouting slogans and gathering near the Speaker's chair.

"We are deeply concerned about political intolerance and violence perpetuated by the ruling party along with the police. There has been a series of attacks on Congress workers," senior Congress leader Manas Bhunia told reporters, adding that they were unable to hold public meetings due to non-cooperation from the authorities.

CPI(M) leader Surjya Kanta Mishra said, "The Speaker did not allow the adjournment motion because the government is not willing to discuss the issue. Opposition parties are being attacked in the state."

He said that none of the issues like attack on opposition party leaders, crime against women and crisis in tea gardens are being discussed in the House.

"The fisheries department had issued orders to collect advertisement for souvenirs. Now they say it has been withdrawn but how could the government issue such an order?" asked Mishra.