Mamata Banerjee Accuses Centre of Undermining Bengal's Democracy

In a blistering critique of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP-led central government, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday accused them of administrative interference aimed at undermining democratic processes in the run-up to the state elections. Speaking in Kolkata during the Trinamool Congress party's manifesto launch, Banerjee alleged that external forces were attempting to destabilize the state by smuggling in money and arms, potentially leading to chaos and indirect imposition of President's Rule.

Banerjee's rallying cry urged the people of Bengal to uphold unity and democratic values, rejecting any inducements that threaten to sow division. She described the current climate as an "undeclared President's Rule," questioning the fairness of governance under these conditions while exhorting citizens to stay vigilant and resist the centralization of power that she claims undermines public welfare and democratic accountability.

Criticizing central policies as anti-women and divisive, Banerjee emphasized an inclusive approach, stating that all communities must be treated as equals. She highlighted administrative reshuffles during the elections as unprecedented and potentially disruptive. Meanwhile, Banerjee's letter to the Chief Election Commissioner accused the Election Commission of bias, prompting her to approach the Supreme Court to safeguard democratic rights.