CM Mamata announces development boards for marginalised communities ahead of Bengal Assembly polls

Ahead of Assembly polls in West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday (March 13, 2026) announced the formation of cultural and development boards for five marginalised communities in the State.

In a social media post, the Chief Minister said that her government intends to constitute five new Cultural and Development Boards for the Munda (ST), Kora (ST), Dom (SC), Kumbhakar (OBC) and Sadgope (OBC) communities.

“These communities are integral to the vibrant fabric of Bengal. My heartiest congratulations to all of them. These boards will protect their unique languages and traditions while ensuring better education, healthcare, and jobs. They will safeguard customary rights and bring further socio-economic growth,” Ms. Banerjee said.

The announcement comes days after President Droupadi Murmu, while pointing out at a breach of protocol at an event attended by her in Darjeeling district, had stated that the West Bengal government was not serious about development of Scheduled Tribes.

The West Bengal government under Mamata Banerjee has started setting up development boards soon after coming to power. Ms. Banerjee started setting up these development boards since 2013.

The first set of development boards came up in Darjeeling district Lepcha, Sherpa, Tamang, and Bhutia communities between 2013 and 2015. Later in 2016, boards for the Kami, Damai, and Sarki communities were announced.

In May 2017, the Mamata Banerjee government announced the Rajbanshi Culture and Development Board.

The political opponents of the Chief Minister, say that these boards lack any purpose and hardly any funds are allocated to such boards. Out of the 294 Assembly seats in West Bengal, 68 are reserved for Scheduled Caste and 16 for Scheduled Tribes.

“Since 2013, we have established many such boards for our weaker communities, ensuring their all-round development. Our commitment to Ma, Mati, Manush means we remain dedicated to ensuring no community is left behind. Our goal is simple: to bring a smile to every face through inclusive progress and unwavering support,” Ms. Banerjee added in the social media post.