Is Mamata's Rule Undermining Democracy in Bengal?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Attack on Suvendu Adhikari's convoy raises concerns over law and order.
- BJP accuses Trinamool Congress of political intimidation.
- Trinamool Congress denies involvement, calls allegations a drama.
- Incident highlights the worsening political environment in West Bengal.
- Calls for investigation into the attack are growing.
Kolkata, Aug 6 (NationPress) West Bengal BJP MP Jagannath Sarkar has strongly criticized the state government following the alleged attack on the convoy of Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari. He stated that the current law and order situation under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is contrary to democracy and constitutional standards.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, August 5, as Adhikari visited Cooch Behar to lead a BJP rally outside the district's Superintendent of Police office.
Upon reaching Khagrabari, he was confronted with black flags and slogans, reportedly from Trinamool Congress supporters.
BJP leaders indicated that at approximately 12:35 p.m., a group wielding Trinamool Congress flags and black flags gathered at Khagrabari crossing, allegedly attacking Adhikari's convoy as it passed.
In a strong response, BJP MP Jagannath Sarkar told IANS, "What is occurring in Bengal is against democracy. Mamata Banerjee and her party disregard the Constitution, and this has been a persistent issue. Such occurrences are unacceptable. She often makes statements against the nation and intimidates the Opposition leaders."
Sarkar further accused the state police of functioning as an extension of the ruling party.
"Currently, the police operate for Mamata Banerjee. They serve the state government rather than the public," he added.
The BJP has charged the ruling Trinamool Congress with staging the attack, labeling it a pre-planned attempt to intimidate the Leader of Opposition.
The party contends that the incident illustrates the worsening political environment in the state.
Conversely, the Trinamool Congress has categorically denied its workers' involvement in the attack, dismissing the BJP's claims as a well-scripted drama.
Video evidence from the scene shows vehicles in the convoy being hit with Trinamool flags, while members of the crowd threw shoes at them.