“Mamata Banerjee Calls on EC-Deputed Officers to Act Independently”

Kolkata, Apr 22 : Intensifying her attack ahead of the elections, Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday accused the Election Commission of India of bias and urged officers deputed for poll duty to carry out their responsibilities independently and without political influence.

Addressing multiple public rallies across Haldia, North 24 Parganas, and Kolkata, the Chief Minister expressed concern over what she described as partial conduct by certain officials. She stated that officers belonging to prestigious services such as IAS and IPS must remain neutral and committed to constitutional duties rather than aligning with any political party.

“I am not asking you to support us; I am asking you to function independently, not in a one-sided manner,” Banerjee said, emphasizing the need for fairness in the electoral process. She also warned that any wrongdoing during the election period would not go unnoticed and would be subject to scrutiny in the future.

Banerjee’s remarks took a sharper tone as she cautioned that legal action would follow any misconduct. She asserted that all cases would be investigated thoroughly, regardless of an individual’s position or background. In a strongly worded statement, she vowed accountability and justice for any alleged irregularities.

At a rally in Jagatdal, Banerjee questioned the silence of the Election Commission over controversial remarks reportedly made by former IPS officer and current BJP candidate Rajesh Kumar. She alleged that Kumar had issued threats against Trinamool Congress workers, raising concerns about the environment leading up to the polls.

The Chief Minister also expressed apprehension that TMC candidate Somnath Shyam could face arrest ahead of voting, hinting at possible political targeting. Her comments reflected growing tension between the ruling party in West Bengal and the central authorities overseeing the election process.

In a moment of introspection, Banerjee acknowledged what she described as misplaced trust in certain individuals who later turned against her party. Referring indirectly to Rajesh Kumar, she said she had previously supported and provided him opportunities, including a position in the Pollution Control Board, but felt that trust had been betrayed.

She also addressed internal discussions within the party, mentioning that Abhishek Banerjee had occasionally urged her to adopt a stricter approach. Reflecting on past decisions, she suggested that leniency may have been a mistake in dealing with those who later switched allegiances.

Turning her focus to her own constituency, Banerjee alleged bias in the handling of election arrangements in Bhowanipore. She claimed that certain officials had been deliberately appointed to hinder her campaign efforts, including restrictions on holding meetings. Despite these challenges, she expressed confidence in her public support, stating that even informal interactions would draw large crowds.

Banerjee further alleged that specific wards in her constituency had been identified for potential electoral manipulation through the deployment of central forces. She assured supporters that she would personally monitor any areas where disturbances might occur, signaling a hands-on approach to safeguarding the electoral process.

Earlier in Haldia, Banerjee also launched a pointed attack on the Adhikari family, particularly Suvendu Adhikari, without naming him directly. She criticized what she described as displays of power and challenged her opponents’ ability to confront her party leadership, especially Abhishek Banerjee.

As the election atmosphere grows increasingly charged, Banerjee’s remarks underline escalating political tensions in West Bengal, with allegations and counter-allegations shaping the narrative. The coming days are expected to witness intensified campaigning and heightened scrutiny over the conduct of both political leaders and election officials.