Mamata Banerjee Accuses BJP of Disrupting TMC Rally Despite Court Order
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of using goons to stop a Trinamool Congress (TMC) protest march, despite the Calcutta High Court granting permission for the rally. Speaking to reporters, Banerjee questioned the police's failure to enforce the court order and alleged that BJP workers physically assaulted TMC supporters.
"The high court allowed our rally, but BJP goons stopped it. How can the police undermine the court's order allowing the rally? BJP goons beat up our party workers. Is this democracy?" she said.
Details of the Incident
The TMC had planned a protest march in Kolkata to highlight issues of unemployment and inflation. The Calcutta High Court had given the green light for the rally, but according to Banerjee, BJP activists blocked the route and attacked TMC workers. The Chief Minister claimed that around 50 party workers were injured in the clashes.
"We had all the necessary permissions. The court order was clear. Yet, the police stood by while our people were attacked. This is a blatant violation of democratic rights," Banerjee added.
Political Reactions and Impact
The incident has sparked a fresh war of words between the TMC and BJP. BJP leaders denied the allegations, accusing the TMC of staging the incident for political gain. State BJP president Sukanta Majumdar said, "Mamata Banerjee is making false accusations to divert attention from her government's failures. The BJP believes in peaceful protests and respects court orders."
The Calcutta High Court had earlier directed the state police to ensure smooth conduct of the rally. Banerjee's remarks put the spotlight on the law and order situation in West Bengal, which has been a contentious issue between the state government and the opposition.
Broader Context
This is not the first time TMC has accused the BJP of disrupting its events. Political violence has been a recurring theme in West Bengal, with both parties trading blame. The incident comes ahead of the 2026 assembly elections, intensifying the political rivalry in the state.
