Can’t ask mosquitoes not to bite: Bengal Minister’s remark sparks criticism
West Bengal Minister Agnimitra Paul is facing backlash after remarking that the government cannot stop mosquitoes from biting amid a dengue outbreak. The comment follows previous criticism regarding her treatment of a homeless woman in Kolkata.
Why it matters
The incident highlights political accountability and public perception of government officials during a health crisis.
A remark by West Bengal Minister Agnimitra Paul on the outbreak of vector-borne disease in the State has sparked criticism in the State’s political circles. Ms. Paul who holds the portfolio of Urban Development and Municipal Affairs said that the government will have to step up its efforts to combat the situation as mosquitoes cannot be tamed.
“Cannot ask mosquitoes to bite less as the government has changed,” the Minister told journalists.
There has been an outbreak of vector borne disease particularly dengue in West Bengal with over 4000 cases of dengue infection being reported and seven deaths over the past few weeks. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari had earlier this week held a meeting with officials and said that the situation was under control.
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