Banerjee also labelled the much-hyped patta distribution in Nandigram as a ploy to lure villagers before the panchayat polls. She was speaking at a rally of the newly-formed Progressive Democratic Secular Front (PDSC). The rally, led by Banerjee began at Subodh Mullick Square and ended at Dorina Crossing.

“Buddhadeb distributing pattas is a drama enacted for the benefit of villagers before panchayat polls. After the elections are over, the pattas will be taken away by local CPM cadres and kept in party offices,” she said.

“Moreover, most of the recipients of the pattas are relatives of local CPM leaders. Land will be given to their uncles, wives, brothers and so on. The landless agricultural labourers will not benefit at all. Had it been so, the number of landless farmers in Bengal would not have reached 97 lakh,” she added.

The Trinamool chief also alleged that CPM cadres are deliberately attacking supporters of Bhumi Uchhed Pratirodh Committee and villagers in Nandigram. “Yesterday, one of our supporters was admitted at SSKM Hospital and he is critical,” she said.