Blurb: Mamata Banerjee accuses BJP of using outsiders, money, and influence in elections, raising concerns over fairness, voter roll changes, and treatment of Bengal residents in other states

Tentulia

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday accused the BJP of bringing outsiders to influence the Assam Assembly elections, claiming the party lacked confidence in local voters. Addressing a rally in Tentulia in North 24 Parganas, she alleged that around 50,000 people were transported from Uttar Pradesh to Assam for the polls.

Banerjee said no central agency remained neutral under the BJP-led government and alleged that institutions were being misused. She claimed similar tactics were being attempted in West Bengal ahead of its assembly elections, pointing to the transfer of several police and administrative officers after polls were announced.

She further alleged that money and drugs were being brought into the state to influence voters but expressed confidence that Trinamool Congress workers would resist such efforts and secure victory. The Chief Minister also raised concerns over voter roll revisions, claiming that nearly 90 lakh names were removed, including both Hindus and Muslims.

Referring to the NRC exercise in Assam, Banerjee claimed that a majority of those excluded were Hindus, warning people not to trust the BJP. She urged voters to consider her as the party’s candidate in all 294 seats, seeking support for another term under her leadership.

Banerjee also alleged that names of Scheduled Caste voters and even electors in her own constituency had been deleted, though she said she remained confident of public support. She criticised the BJP over food choices, claiming restrictions exist in states ruled by the party. Additionally, she alleged that migrant workers from West Bengal face difficulties in BJP-ruled states and questioned promises of development. She urged the Centre to ensure safety and dignity for Bengal residents living outside the state before making electoral commitments.