BJP Leaders Slam Mamata Banerjee's Supreme Court Appearance as Political Theater
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's appearance in the Supreme Court regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has sparked sharp criticism from opposition parties, particularly the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). While the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) hailed the intervention as a moral victory, BJP leaders dismissed it as an unsuccessful attempt to obstruct the Election Commission's constitutional exercise.
Empty-Handed Return and Failed Objectives
BJP MLA and Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, was quick to respond after the Chief Minister exited the Supreme Court premises. "She has returned empty-handed. Her main aim was to stop the appointment of micro-observers for the SIR process because she is facing trouble if they stay," Adhikari stated during a press conference. He emphasized that the Election Commission had to appoint micro-observers precisely because the state administration was not providing competent officers for the SIR drive.
Adhikari further elaborated that Mamata Banerjee had completely failed in her objective to halt the SIR process. "She wanted to remove the micro-observers... Today, it has become clear that she wants to save Rohingya Muslims," he alleged, adding that while the Chief Minister portrays herself as a fighter, this particular battle was for her own political survival rather than for the welfare of Bengal's citizens.
Political Hypocrisy and Diversion Tactics
West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya, addressing media personnel in Delhi, accused the Chief Minister of employing diversionary tactics. "Sometimes she speaks of enjoying scenic winter views, sometimes she travels to Delhi, and sometimes abroad. All these are attempts to divert public attention," Bhattacharya remarked. He asserted that regardless of Mamata Banerjee's movements—whether to Mars or Antarctica—the SIR process would continue unimpeded.
Bhattacharya highlighted what he called a glaring example of political hypocrisy, noting that while Mamata Banerjee had previously demanded purification of the voters' list, she was now protesting against the very mechanism designed to achieve that objective. "This is a glaring example of political hypocrisy and double standards," he declared, predicting the inevitable defeat of the TMC in upcoming electoral battles.
Political Drama Without Substance
BJP MP and Union Minister of State Sukanta Majumdar characterized the Supreme Court appearance as mere political drama lacking substantive content. "She presented no concrete facts before the court and delivered only an inflammatory and political speech," Majumdar claimed. He pointed out that the court had corrected what he described as factually incorrect statements regarding Aadhaar cards made by the Chief Minister.
Majumdar outlined a three-point approach—"Detain, Delete, and Deport"—as essential for electoral integrity and national interest. He expressed confidence that the people of West Bengal had become fully aware of what he termed the political theatrics of the Trinamool Congress and would reject them accordingly. "SIR will take place, and the defeat of the Trinamool Congress is certain," he concluded.
Left Parties Join the Criticism
The criticism wasn't limited to the BJP alone. Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader Sujan Chakraborty also questioned the timing and sincerity of Mamata Banerjee's intervention. "After November, December, January, when the SIR is almost at its final stage, she now remembers about stopping the SIR," Chakraborty observed. He suggested that the Chief Minister had failed in her administrative responsibilities and was now engaging in symbolic gestures purely for public display.
The political controversy surrounding the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls continues to intensify, with opposition parties united in their criticism of the Chief Minister's approach. As the SIR process moves forward, all eyes remain on how this administrative exercise will impact the political landscape of West Bengal in the coming months.
