On the occasion of Rabindranath Tagore's birth anniversary, Trinamool Congress (TMC) National President and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has made a significant political announcement. Mamata Banerjee has issued a strong appeal to opposition parties to unite against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). She stated that those who are fearless and truly love their motherland will naturally come together during these times. Alleging that a 'reign of terror' has begun in Bengal, she declared that her moral and political battle against it has commenced. She also appealed to NGOs and other social organizations to join this movement.
Allegations of Dictatorship and Denied Permissions
Mamata Banerjee leveled serious allegations, stating that she had sought permission to celebrate Rabindranath Tagore's birth anniversary at Kalighat Mor, Muktadal, and in front of the Fire Brigade Station. However, permission was denied for all three locations. She questioned why she wasn't granted permission this time, leading her to decide to celebrate the anniversary outside the party office instead. Banerjee termed this as complete dictatorship and an attempt to silence the TMC. She emphasized her background as a lawyer, stating she would openly fight this battle against the BJP.
Harassment of Workers and Security Concerns
The TMC chief alleged that her party workers are being subjected to atrocities in Bengal. She cited an instance involving a 92-year-old Dalit woman who lived with her but has now been forced to leave her home and seek shelter elsewhere. Plus, she claimed that a newly-wed bride in that family was threatened by the BJP and forced to vacate the house. Mamata alleged that hooliganism is taking place outside the houses of several other party workers and leaders, while the police remain completely silent on the matter.
Targeting BJP Over Security Withdrawal
Reflecting on her governance, Mamata Banerjee stated that when she came to power in Bengal in 2011, she didn't allow any violence to occur. She claimed that no one was harassed or persecuted at that time, while she reminded that she had sent her own bulletproof car to ensure the safety of the then outgoing Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharya and provided him with Z+ security. In contrast, she alleged that the BJP immediately removed her security and discontinued many of her services upon coming to power.
Opposition Unity and Legal Front
Regarding opposition unity, Mamata Banerjee mentioned that all major national leaders have contacted her. She confirmed having conversations with Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, Uddhav Thackeray, and Tejashwi Yadav. Also, Akhilesh Yadav visited her personally. She also spoke with Hemant Soren and Arvind Kejriwal. On the legal front, she noted that Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi had called her, while Prashant Bhushan and Menaka Guruswamy are also standing with her in this fight. She stated that leaders like Kalyan Banerjee are ready to fight this legal battle, asserting that they know how to fight.
Reaction to MP Mahua Moitra Incident
Mamata Banerjee concluded by stating that Mahua Moitra told her she didn't want to engage in a verbal spat with those individuals. The Chief Minister assured her supporters not to worry, as they're prepared to fight this battle to the end.