Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched her election campaign from Mainaguri on Wednesday, aiming at both the BJP-led Central government and the Election Commission.

Addressing the rally, Mamata described the midnight release of the supplementary voter list as “midnight mayhem” and accused authorities of undermining democracy. She also referred to the late-night removal of state Chief Secretary Nandini Chakraborty and Home Secretary Jagdish Prasad Meena after the election schedule was announced.

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CM Mamata Banerjee targets BJP, EC

She said, "Midnight brought Independence; we take pride in that. Today, forgetting all that, they don't respect democracy; they're snatching away voting rights. BJP creates mayhem at midnight. As long as I'm alive, these things won't happen. After me, my next generation won't allow these things either."

The Chief Minister also questioned policies ranging from demonetisation to the SIR process, asking why citizens are repeatedly made to stand in queues and prove their citizenship. She further criticised restrictions on booking LPG cylinders, saying, "People won't get food, they'll have to go back to the old days."

Referring to developments in Assam, where elections are also underway, Mamata warned candidates to be cautious during nominations. She said, "I'll tell every candidate that many nominations have been rejected in Assam. Learn from this. Everyone should take lawyers. Keep all papers properly checked."

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Banerjee also alleged that the BJP has plans to divide Bengal. She said, "BJP has many plans. They want to lift the entire state of Bengal. They'll merge it with Bihar. I've stopped the districts of North Bengal. It came out on social media a few days ago."