Regional parties should move ahead together: Mamata

Odisha Sun Times Bureau
Puri, Apr 19:

While speculations are rife about formation of a grand alliance among regional parties to counter BJP, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who is on a three-day visit to Odisha, said here today that regional parties should move ahead together.

“All regional parties should become strong and move ahead together maintaining good relation with each other,” Mamata told reporters here.

On being asked about meeting with her Odisha counterpart, Mamata said, “I have sought time for meeting with Naveen Patnaik tomorrow. If permitted, I will meet him before leaving Odisha.”

Criticising the BJP, the West Bengal CM said the saffron party is indulging in “divide and rule” politics. They are creating rift among people and regions, she said, adding that she won’t let it happen.

Banerjee rejected all charges against her party leaders and MPs in the chit fund case, saying that it was a conspiracy by the BJP to malign the Trinamool Congress.

“Since we are opposed to BJP ideologically, they are deliberately doing this. They should fight us politically,” she said.