Is the BJP considering dividing West Bengal? The central minister responsible for North East Development has suggested the possibility of including the northern districts of West Bengal in their agenda under the North East Developmental Council, according to sources. This division of West Bengal, based on existing ground realities as stated by the BJP minister, will enable the central government to directly allocate funds for development in the area, without needing state government consultation, similar to the process for all seven North Eastern states, as per sources. It is believed that North Bengal, which has historically supported the BJP, does not share the same cultural similarities as the southern parts of West Bengal. The southern region is a stronghold of the TMC, and the BJP has struggled to gain a foothold there, sources say. The northern region is predominantly populated by Gorkhas and Rajvanshis, according to sources. This move may be the first step towards dividing the state to diminish the political influence of Mamta Didi, sources say.