Political tensions in West Bengal have escalated sharply ahead of the first phase of Assembly elections, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launching a strong attack on the Election Commission of India.

Addressing a rally in Sagardighi, Murshidabad, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief accused the poll body of failing to maintain law and order and alleged a larger conspiracy to destabilize the state.

‘All My Powers Taken Away,’ Says Mamata

Speaking at the rally, Mamata Banerjee claimed that since the announcement of elections, administrative control has shifted entirely to the Election Commission of India, leaving her government with limited authority.

She said, “All my powers have been taken away,” adding that she had never seen such a situation in her political career where the state administration was unable to function independently during elections.

Banerjee also criticized the Commission over the Malda incident, where judicial officers were reportedly held hostage, alleging that the poll body failed to ensure their safety.

Malda Incident Sparks Political Row

Referring to the Malda episode, Banerjee said the responsibility lies with the Election Commission, claiming it could not maintain basic law and order during the election period.

The incident has become a major political flashpoint, with opposition parties and the ruling government exchanging blame over security lapses.

Allegation of ‘President’s Rule Conspiracy’

In a sharp escalation, Mamata Banerjee alleged that recent developments are part of a broader “blueprint” to impose President’s Rule in the state.

She accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of attempting to create unrest in order to justify central intervention and disrupt the election process.

Banerjee urged her supporters to remain calm and not fall into any provocation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace during the election period.

Indirect Attack on AIMIM

Without naming the party directly, Banerjee also targeted a Hyderabad-based political outfit, widely seen as a reference to the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM).

She alleged that certain forces are trying to divide minority votes to benefit the BJP and warned voters to remain cautious of such strategies.

Concerns Over Voter List Deletions

Another key issue raised by Banerjee was the alleged removal of names from voter lists in districts like Malda, Murshidabad, and North Dinajpur.

She claimed that thousands of names have been deleted, including in her own constituency, Bhabanipur. According to her, this amounts to an attack on democratic rights and could impact fair voting.

Political Heat Rises Ahead of Polls

With elections nearing, the political climate in West Bengal is becoming increasingly charged. Accusations involving governance, law and order, and electoral fairness are dominating campaign narratives.

The Election Commission has yet to respond in detail to these specific allegations, but the controversy is expected to remain a key talking point in the coming days.

Conclusion

The strong remarks by Mamata Banerjee highlight the high-stakes nature of the upcoming elections in West Bengal.

As political parties intensify their campaigns, issues surrounding election management, security, and voter rights are likely to stay at the center of public debate, shaping the electoral outcome in the state.