Mamata Banerjee Critiques Election Commission for IAS, IPS Transfers; Accuses BJP of Election Manipulation
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Kolkata, March 28 (NationPress) On Saturday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee fiercely criticized the Election Commission of India, claiming that the relocation of IAS and IPS officers in the state aimed to assist the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in swaying the Assembly elections.
Speaking at a rally in Raniganj, located in West Burdwan district, Banerjee accused the BJP of having "crossed all limits" and emphasized that there should be a "Lakshman Rekha" that must not be crossed.
“The BJP's so-called ‘Vanishing Commission’... the BJP's ‘Vanishing Washing Machine’ has moved approximately 50 to 100 officers from our state to Kerala and Tamil Nadu. These officers, who understood the local dynamics, have been reassigned elsewhere, specifically to impose oppression on the citizens. This tactic is intended to facilitate the influx of the BJP’s illegal funds, drugs, and thugs into Bengal, allowing bulldozers to enter and inciting riots. The BJP’s ‘Vanishing Washing Machine’ is actively working against the public,” Banerjee stated.
She further remarked, “The BJP is overstepping every boundary under the guise of removing names from the voters’ list. There must be a Lakshman Rekha. They must not exceed the limits.”
In reference to the violence during a Ram Navami procession in Raghunathganj, Murshidabad district, the Chief Minister questioned the inaction of the administration, which is currently under the jurisdiction of the Election Commission.
“On Friday, Ram Navami processions took place in Raghunathganj. I am puzzled as to why the administration isn’t taking action. Do not hold me responsible for these clashes, as I currently lack the authority to manage the administration. They have reassigned all my officers, and now they are provoking riots in Raghunathganj. Shops have been looted, and properties have been vandalized. When the time comes, we will not tolerate those who instigated the violence. They have stripped me of my powers; if the BJP assumes control, they will use bulldozers and evict everyone,” she asserted.
“Bulldozers were used in Behala yesterday (Friday). I apologize to the people and promise to help rebuild their shops and properties,” the Chief Minister added.
Banerjee also accused the BJP of being hypocritical, stating that while they label the Trinamool Congress as corrupt, they themselves are receiving funds from illegal coal mining.
During the rally, she reinforced West Bengal's legacy of communal harmony, noting that individuals of various faiths celebrate festivals together, including Ram Navami, Durga Puja, Eid, and Christmas.
Banerjee announced a rehabilitation initiative for residents living in landslide-prone areas of Raniganj, stating, “Human life is of utmost importance; hence, we do not want anyone to remain in danger. Those who wish to move from these landslide-prone areas to safer locations will receive Rs 10 lakh, along with two flats. The government will cover the relocation costs.”
She revealed that 2,000 flats have already been constructed, with plans for an additional 4,000.
Reiterating that the relocation will be voluntary, Banerjee added, “I am not compelling anyone; I am merely making an appeal... please reconsider your choices. If a significant landslide were to occur, thousands of lives could be at stake.”