Anee accuses opposition of siding with forces behind past shutdowns

He made the remarks on Friday night while addressing the inaugural ceremony of Durga Puja celebrations at the Trinayani Puja Mandap in Shankharipara, Laxmipur municipal town, as the chief guest.

“Once, there were hartals lasting 171 days, 72 days and 73 days. Those who threatened to paralyse the country through hartals and blockades are now the allies of today's opposition. It is the same cycle repeating itself.''

The minister urged people to remain vigilant, saying the country must avoid another round of political confrontation.

“We have finished the political battle, but the struggle of life must continue. We must ensure that we do not have to fight another political battle.''

Anee stressed the need to safeguard peace, communal harmony and civic rights so that people of all communities could live together with dignity and mutual respect.

He also questioned the opposition's performance since the government assumed office, arguing that political parties on both sides have moral obligations and commitments to the public.

“We are in government and have moral responsibilities and commitments. Those in the opposition also have their own responsibilities and commitments. Since the day we took the oath and assumed office, how much of its responsibility has the opposition fulfilled? That, too, deserves scrutiny.''

Questioning the opposition's protest programmes, the minister asked why long marches and road marches were necessary under the current political circumstances.

His remarks come amid continuing political tensions over the opposition's activities and its role in holding the government accountable.