Kolkata: CM Mamata Banerjee on Friday announced the formation of cultural and development boards for five communities with a significant presence in Bengal.The separate boards for Munda, Kora, Dom, Kumbhakar and Sadgop communities — all of which belong to SC, ST and OBC groups — will be established soon, Banerjee posted on social media. “I am pleased to announce that our govt intends to soon constitute five new cultural and development boards for Munda (ST), Kora (ST), Dom (SC), Kumbhakar (OBC) and Sadgop (OBC) communities. These communities are integral to the vibrant fabric of Bengal,” Banerjee wrote. These boards will protect the languages and traditions of these communities, while also working to improve their overall standard of living and employability.“These boards will protect their unique languages and traditions while ensuring better education, healthcare and jobs. They will safeguard customary rights and promote further socio-economic growth. Since 2013, we have established many such boards for our weaker communities, ensuring their all-round development,” the CM wrote.Banerjee iterated that her govt’s commitment to “Ma, Mati, Manush” meant that no community would be left behind. “Our goal is simple: to bring a smile to every face through inclusive progress and unwavering support,” Banerjee said. The Munda, Kora and Dom communities primarily reside in the western districts of Bankura, Purulia, Jhargram and parts of West Midnapore. The Sadgop and Kumbhakar communities are spread across almost all districts.Political observers say the move at this juncture may be influenced by the upcoming assembly polls. In the 2019 LS polls, BJP had a significant presence in the western region. However, in the 2021 assembly elections, TMC regained ground, winning all four seats in Jhargram. In the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, Trinamool won back Bankura, Jhargram and Midnapore from BJP. BJP retained Purulia Lok Sabha seat both in 2019 and 2024, but Trinamool increased its vote share.The boards for Munda, Kora, Dom, Kumbhakar and Sadgop communities will protect their languages and traditions and work to improve overall standard of living.
