West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee created a dramatic scene at Delhi's Banga Bhawan on Monday, February 2, 2026, when she directly confronted police personnel deployed at the premises. The incident unfolded as Banerjee arrived at the state government guest house and immediately questioned the heavy security presence.
Allegations of Threats and Harassment
Addressing reporters gathered at the location, the Trinamool Congress leader made serious allegations about the treatment of West Bengal residents staying at Banga Bhawan. She claimed that families affected by the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) program were being "threatened" and subjected to harassment while residing at the facility.
"Why are there so many police personnel here? What is happening to our people from West Bengal?" Banerjee demanded during her impromptu press interaction. "These are ordinary citizens who have come to Delhi for legitimate reasons, and they are being intimidated."
Questioning Police Deployment
The Chief Minister specifically questioned the rationale behind what she described as excessive police deployment at Banga Bhawan. She suggested that the security presence was disproportionate to any legitimate security needs and appeared designed to create an atmosphere of fear.
According to Banerjee's statements, the SIR-affected families from West Bengal had traveled to Delhi seeking resolution of their concerns but were instead facing pressure and threats during their stay at the state guest house. She did not specify who was allegedly threatening these families or provide detailed evidence during her public remarks.
Political Implications and Context
The confrontation comes amid ongoing political tensions between the West Bengal government and central authorities. The Special Intensive Revision program has been a contentious issue in Bengal politics, with the state government frequently criticizing its implementation and impact on local communities.
Banerjee's dramatic intervention at Banga Bhawan represents a significant escalation in her public criticism of how West Bengal residents are treated in the national capital. The incident is likely to fuel further political debate about federal-state relations and the rights of citizens from opposition-ruled states when visiting Delhi.
Police Response and Official Reactions
While police officials present at the scene did not immediately respond to Banerjee's allegations during her confrontation, sources indicate that the security deployment was part of routine arrangements for the area. Delhi Police typically maintain a presence at government buildings and diplomatic facilities throughout the capital.
The incident has drawn attention to the treatment of state government facilities in Delhi and raises questions about the autonomy of state bhawans in the national capital. Political observers note that such confrontations between state chief ministers and central security forces are relatively rare and indicate deepening political fault lines.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on official responses from both Delhi Police and central government authorities regarding Banerjee's allegations. The West Bengal Chief Minister has promised to raise the matter through appropriate channels while continuing to advocate for what she describes as the "protection of basic rights" for citizens from her state visiting Delhi.
