Ahead of the Assembly elections, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday accused the BJP-led Centre of misusing central agencies for political purposes. Speaking at a rally in Tarakeshwar in Hooghly district, she alleged that agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), and National Investigation Agency (NIA) were being used to target opposition leaders and those associated with her party.
She claimed that raids were conducted at the residence of a person handling her income tax matters, as well as at the home of Trinamool Congress candidate from Rashbehari and Kolkata Municipal Corporation Mayor-in-Council Debashis Kumar. "Cases are being filed against everyone. We will respond through legal means," she said.
Allegations of pressure on party workers
CM Banerjee also referred to reports about election consultancy firm I-PAC allegedly halting its operations in the state, which her party has denied. Without naming the organisation directly, she alleged that individuals working for her party were being pressured by central agencies.
"Those working for us are being told to leave Bengal. If they are threatened, they will join us. We will ensure they do not lose their jobs," she said.
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She further alleged that raids were carried out at the residence of a person associated with her security arrangements. Raising concerns, she said, "Does this mean there is a threat to my life? If someone thinks Bengal can be won by harming me, they are mistaken."
Questions on women's reservation and Centre's actions
The Chief Minister also questioned the delay in implementing the women’s reservation bill passed in Parliament in 2023. "The bill was passed with a large majority. Why has it not been implemented yet?" she asked.
Mamata Banerjee criticised a recent address by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that it amounted to political campaigning during the election period. "Elections are underway. How can such political statements be made through official channels? We strongly object and will file a complaint," she said.
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She also accused the Union government of attempting to alter parliamentary seat numbers for political gain. "They are planning to increase the number of seats significantly. This raises serious questions about their intent," she added.
The BJP has not responded to these specific allegations so far. Meanwhile, campaigning continues across the state as political tensions rise ahead of polling.
