No free pass for investors: Bengal to conduct ‘background checks’ before approvals, says CM

Kolkata: The West Bengal government has announced a stricter approach towards industrial investment, with Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stating that all prospective investors will undergo thorough scrutiny before receiving government support or land allocations.

Speaking at an event in Kolkata marking 12 years of the Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre, Adhikari said the state administration is carefully examining investment proposals submitted since the BJP government assumed office.

Government forms panel to scrutinise proposals

According to the chief minister, a team led by Industry and Commerce Secretary Vandana Yadav has been tasked with evaluating investment proposals and verifying the credentials of industrialists seeking to establish projects in the state.

Adhikari said the government would avoid rushing into agreements and instead focus on determining whether investors have serious business plans or are merely seeking publicity through meetings with the state leadership.

He emphasised that the administration wants to ensure that proposed projects contribute meaningfully to industrial growth and employment generation.

Investors to face credibility checks

The chief minister said the government would investigate whether companies or promoters have any history of bank fraud, land-related disputes or ongoing money-laundering investigations.

Officials will also review whether investors who previously received land in West Bengal have utilised it for industrial development or are seeking fresh allocations without fulfilling earlier commitments.

According to Adhikari, the state wants to ensure that land is allocated only to businesses with clear and credible development plans.

New land policy to balance growth and farmers' rights

Adhikari also indicated that the government is preparing a new framework for land acquisition that aims to balance industrial expansion with the interests of farmers.

He said West Bengal has sufficient land available for industrial development and stressed that the government would avoid repeating past controversies linked to land acquisition.

Referring to the Singur and Nandigram movements, Adhikari criticised both the former Left Front government and the Trinamool Congress, accusing them of adopting policies that harmed public interests.

Probe likely into Bengal Global Business Summit spending

The chief minister also alleged financial irregularities linked to the Bengal Global Business Summit (BGBS), a flagship investment event organised by the previous administration.

Adhikari claimed that an event management company received ₹635 crore in connection with the summit and said his government would investigate the matter.

He added that if evidence of financial misconduct emerges, the case could be handed over to specialised agencies for further investigation, including potential money-laundering inquiries.

Centre and state to jointly drive development

Addressing questions about a possible special financial package for West Bengal, Adhikari said the focus should be on coordinated development efforts between the Centre and the state.

He claimed that the Narendra Modi government had significantly increased financial allocations to West Bengal compared with previous administrations and said the upcoming state budget would outline plans for economic revival and self-reliance.

The chief minister reiterated his government's commitment to promoting local industries and strengthening the state's economy through investment, infrastructure development and industrial growth.

Zero tolerance towards violence

Adhikari also reaffirmed his government's stance on law and order, declaring a policy of zero tolerance towards riots and violence.

Referring to previous incidents in districts including Murshidabad and Malda, he said the administration would respond firmly to any attempts to disturb public order.

The remarks underline the new government's effort to project a business-friendly image while simultaneously emphasising stricter oversight of investment proposals and stronger governance measures.