With Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee renewing her threat of a fresh agitation after she meets the Governor on his return to Kolkata after September 19, Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee on Wednesday once again appealed to her to help restore normal, conducive atmosphere for resumption of work at the Tata Motors small car plant in Singur.

“The Tatas are anxiously waiting to come back. The situation has improved a bit, but it needs to be better before they come back to resume operations. The commerce and industries department officers and myself are in touch with the Tatas,” said Bhattacharjee, adding, “I will appeal to her conscience. I will request her to be realistic in finding a solution. It’s not a question of the Tatas or the Birlas, nor of the Rs 1 lakh car or Rs 5 lakh car. I am concerned because the project involves huge employment potential; it will benefit our state.”

Asked if he had spoken to Ratan Tata, the CM said: “Of course, even yesterday we had a talk. They are anxious to be back, but a congenial atmosphere is yet to be restored. We have lost nearly one month of work.”

On the other hand, talking to the media on Wednesday evening, Mamata said the West Bengal Government has broken its promise and gone back on its words. She even sought Central intervention in the matter.

“If the state Government does not give credence to the commitment made in the agreement in the presence of the constitutional head, then it is a case of violation of the Constitution and it is time that the Centre steps in,” she said, adding, “The Government is trying to to allure them with the promise of a job.

... contd.