Modi claims 'cut-money culture' eliminated in West Bengal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday claimed that West Bengal has moved past a culture of extortion and bribery, commonly referred to as 'cut-money', underscoring his administration's efforts to improve governance in the state.

Making the remarks on his birthday, Modi highlighted the government's focus on implementing welfare schemes without corruption. He specifically referenced the Annapurna Yojana, a social security scheme, asserting that no eligible woman in West Bengal will be denied its benefits.

The Prime Minister's comments reflect the central government's emphasis on clean administration and direct benefit transfer to intended beneficiaries. The Annapurna Yojana scheme aims to provide pension support to senior citizens living below the poverty line.

Modi's statement comes as the BJP seeks to strengthen its political footprint in West Bengal, where governance and administrative transparency remain key electoral issues. The remarks underscore the government's anti-corruption messaging in advance of key state-level developments.