From batting for good governance and free economy as FICCI Secretary General, Dr Amit Mitra, is all set to don a new cap, as a politician. But, few would know that politics runs in his blood. In an informal chat with Business Line, Dr Mitra, shares his role in the new avatar.

Q. What prompted this move?

Few know that I come from a political family. My father was a Deputy Speaker of West Bengal Assembly and my mother has a station named after her in the State, a rarity for a woman. Also, my maternal grandfather was Subhash Chandra Bose’s elder brother. So, I have seen politics since childhood through my youth thanks to my father’s elections and rural constituency – and he never lost.

Q. So is it official now, your joining TMC? Are we talking to the future Finance Minster of West Bengal?

Well all you can say is that I am ready to join the fray and be a soldier. As regards future Finance Minster, it is very hypothetical. Ms Mamata Banerjee has expressed her intent to be the Chief Minister of West Bengal. I am willing to take any post, (if I win elections), which is allocated to me.

Q. But, why TMC?

I have been working closing with Ms Mamata Banerjee as the chairman of Railways Expert Committee on PPPs over the last year and a half. Therefore, we have been often talking about the political situation in West Bengal. Therefore, joining her and TMC is an organic evolution.

Q. What kind of economic growth do you see for West Bengal under TMC regime and what gives you this confidence that TMC will succeed?

I am convinced that the people are ready for change. TMC has reached a tipping point where people are ready for a democratically elected Government which will give good governance and offer economic growth through inclusion of those at the bottom of the pyramid.

Q. Will the party be able to bring the desired economic change in the State, which you have also advocated for as head of FICCI?

I have always advocated economic development from the nation’s perspective for growth of economy. Till now West Bengal has been driven for maximising the interest of the CPM and its cadre. Time for change has come to bring in policies which help the people of the State, and are transparent and defined by integrity. This will attract investments and generate employment.

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