Amit Shah Targets TMC Government in Kolkata
With the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections drawing closer, political tensions have escalated between the ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the Mamata Banerjee-led government during a press conference in Kolkata. He released a “charge sheet” highlighting alleged failures of the TMC government over the past 15 years.
Allegations of Corruption and Lawlessness
Shah accused the state government of fostering corruption, crime against women, and illegal infiltration. He claimed that West Bengal has turned into a “laboratory of corruption” under TMC rule, with criminal syndicates operating from top to bottom.
He further alleged that the promise of “Sonar Bangla” had been replaced by syndicate raj, leading to exploitation of the people. Shah emphasized that the upcoming elections would determine whether people choose “fear or trust.”
BJP Promises Action on Infiltration
The Home Minister stated that if voted to power, the BJP would identify illegal infiltrators and take strict action. He also remarked that the West Bengal elections are crucial for the country’s overall security.
Mamata Banerjee Hits Back at BJP
Responding strongly, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the BJP of undermining her authority as an elected leader. She alleged that her powers had been curtailed and administrative control weakened.
Banerjee also blamed the BJP for recent violence during Ram Navami celebrations in Murshidabad’s Raghunathganj area, where clashes reportedly led to damage of shops and property.
Claims of Political Interference
The TMC chief alleged that officials were being transferred and external forces were being deployed to influence the state’s political environment. She expressed confidence that her party would return to power despite the challenges.
Election Schedule Announced
The West Bengal Assembly elections are scheduled to be held on April 23 and April 29, with counting of votes set for May 4. The high-stakes contest is expected to witness intense campaigning and political confrontations in the coming days.