‘Why Is BJP So Desperate?’: Mamata Banerjee Questions EC Actions In Bengal

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has strongly criticised the Election Commission, accusing it of unfairly targeting the State ahead of elections.

In a detailed post on X (formerly Twitter), Banerjee said that the removal of more than 50 senior officials even before the official election notification is "deeply alarming." These officials include top administrative and police officers such as the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, Director General of Police, and several district-level officers.

She argued that such large-scale changes are not routine administrative decisions but reflect "political interference of the highest order."

Concerns Over Institutional Neutrality

Banerjee raised concerns about what she described as the politicisation of institutions that are meant to remain neutral.

According to her, the actions of the Election Commission are a "direct assault on the Constitution," suggesting that the body is not functioning independently. She also linked these developments to a broader concern about democratic processes being affected.

Questions Over Electoral Roll Process

The Chief Minister also pointed to issues related to the electoral roll process. She said that supplementary voter lists have not yet been published, despite directions from the Supreme Court.

This delay, she claimed, has created uncertainty among citizens and raised concerns about transparency in the electoral process.

She also criticised the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR), calling it flawed and linking it to public distress.

Allegations of Administrative Disruption

Banerjee further alleged that key officers from important agencies such as the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Special Task Force (STF), and Criminal Investigation Department (CID) are being selectively removed or transferred.

She claimed that these moves are weakening the administrative system in West Bengal at a crucial time.

The Chief Minister also questioned certain decisions made by the Commission, such as appointing police commissioners as election observers without arranging replacements, which she said temporarily left major cities without leadership.

Political Targeting and Larger Allegations

In her statement, Banerjee accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to gain control of West Bengal through pressure and institutional influence, rather than through democratic means.

She questioned why citizens are being asked to repeatedly prove their identity and suggested that such actions create unnecessary fear and inconvenience.

She described the current situation as resembling an "undeclared emergency," alleging that democratic norms are being compromised.

Support for State Officials

Banerjee expressed solidarity with government officials in West Bengal, saying they are being unfairly targeted despite carrying out their duties honestly.
She emphasised that the State administration remains committed to serving the people and will continue to function despite challenges.

Ending her statement on a strong note, Banerjee said that West Bengal has always resisted pressure and will continue to do so.

She asserted that the people of the State will stand united and oppose any attempts to disrupt democratic processes or impose external control..