Naxalbari, 22 March (Siliguri Chronicle) – Sankar Malakar, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) candidate from the Matigara–Naxalbari constituency, has begun his election campaign with a focus on the concerns of tea garden workers, a key voter base in the region.
Highlighting long-standing issues, Malakar raised concerns over delays and irregularities in provident fund (PF) and gratuity payments affecting workers in tea estates. On Sunday, he visited the Belgachi Tea Garden in Naxalbari, accompanied by district leadership, the Sabhadhipati of the Siliguri Mahakuma Parishad, and the INTTUC president. He also took part in a procession with tea workers during the visit.
Speaking at the gathering, Malakar alleged that many workers are being denied their rightful benefits. He also claimed that some workers’ names have been arbitrarily removed from the SIR list, leading to distress and harassment within the community.
In the run-up to the elections, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is expected to campaign in North Bengal. She is scheduled to address a public meeting in Naxalbari on March 24. Malakar said her visit is likely to boost the morale of party workers and add momentum to the campaign in the constituency.
