Kolkata, Feb 3 : Making the non-payment of central dues to West Bengal government under various centrally-sponsored schemes an election issue, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday promised to pay the beneficiaries under the 100-day MGNREGA job scheme from the state’s own resources if the Centre does not release the dues.

Although she promised to clear dues of 21 lakh beneficiaries under the 100-day job scheme, to be transferred to their accounts by February 21 from the state’s resources, Banerjee remained vague on what will be the total payout under this head and also how the state government will arrange such huge funds.

“The Union government is thinking of depriving the people of West Bengal of their legitimate financial dues. They have kept on hold the dues of 21 lakh beneficiaries under the 100-day job scheme.