Residents of Bengal Village Demand Better Education, Health, and Employment from Government

Darjeeling, April 14: As the assembly elections approach in West Bengal, political parties are intensifying their campaigns. Leaders are visiting villages, promising voters that all their commitments will be fulfilled upon victory. However, residents of the small village of Hatighisa, located near Naxalbari in the Darjeeling district, express a different sentiment. They demand a government that addresses their basic needs, such as employment, quality education, healthcare, and clean drinking water. They seek a government that can effectively manage education, health, and job opportunities while resolving daily challenges.

In conversations with some villagers, it became clear that fundamental issues persist. Previously, there was a severe shortage of drinking water, forcing residents to rely on rivers. While some water facilities have been established, many problems remain. The village lacked proper roads in the past; although the situation has improved, visible development is still lacking.

Residents report that significant work has not been done in the area. There are no special arrangements for women’s safety, and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has not visited the region.

One local resident stated, “We work daily to earn our living. We need housing, but we can’t find homes. There is a primary school, but only a local health worker operates in place of a hospital. We want a government that provides facilities and alleviates our suffering. There should be a government in Bengal that ensures our families face no difficulties. I have five votes.”

Another individual, a driver, shared, “There are no jobs in Bengal. The problems are numerous. There are no good schools. The primary school is only for basic meals. There is no healthcare facility. We need a government that creates jobs and provides education and health services. We lack Ayushman cards; if we had them, we could access treatment.”

Vishnu Mandal mentioned that drinking water is available only occasionally. He emphasized the need for a good government to foster development and provide education and health facilities.

Vikram added, “There is no significant issue, but we haven’t received housing from the government. Clean drinking water is unavailable. We earn our living daily. My child is educated but lacks a job. There should be employment opportunities. We need a government that can work on the ground.”

Left leader Deepu Haldar remarked, “Elections have been held since 1952, and in 2026, votes will be cast for the assembly elections in Bengal. However, if the condition of villages and rural areas has not changed after so many years, it is a matter of concern.”

During this time, some individuals also reported issues with their names being removed from the voter list. One person claimed their name was cut during the SI verification process. Others also alleged that their names had been removed from the voter list.