Suvendu claims credit for Nandigram rail projects, TMC slams ‘gimmick’
Times of India | 29 January 2026
Nandigram: Leader of the opposition in Bengal assembly Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday announced that the ministry of railways has sanctioned several new projects in the region, including the long-pending Nandigram-Kendamari (Nayachar) line, following his personal intervention.
Sharing a letter from Union rail minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on X, Adhikari claimed Centre had cleared a roadmap for multiple rail links such as Contai-Egra, Nandkumar-Balaipanda, and Nandigram-Kendamari. Additionally, approvals were granted for the Bowaichandi-Arambagh and Bankura-Purulia (via Hura) sections. "I am delighted to share that the Hon'ble Rail minister approved these projects following my repeated requests. This will open new doors for trade, connectivity, and development for the people of Bengal," Adhikari posted.
However, the Deshapran-Nandigram project remains stalled even after 17 years due to land acquisition hurdles and litigation. A section of villagers, who surrendered their land years ago, are still fighting legal battles. "If the project from 2009 couldn't be completed in 17 years, how will these new lines become a reality overnight?" questioned a local resident.
Trinamool netas dismissed the move as a "pre-poll gimmick," alleging that BJP is trying to mislead the public with "paper approvals" after failing to complete existing projects.