Mamata Banerjee Unleashes Blistering Attack: Election Commission a 'Lollipop' for Modi Govt?

In a fiery address that reverberated through the political corridors, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched a scathing attack on the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the Narendra Modi-led central government. Her accusations came amidst a contentious voter list revision process in the state, which she claims is a deliberate attempt to disenfranchise a significant section of the populace.

Banerjee didn't mince words, famously declaring that the Election Commission 'cannot act like a lollipop' for the BJP government.

This potent metaphor underscored her profound frustration and deep-seated suspicion that the ECI, an institution constitutionally mandated to be impartial, is instead bending to the will of the ruling party at the Centre. She alleged that the Commission is systematically transferring officers in West Bengal under the direct influence of the Modi government, thereby undermining the democratic process.

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo articulated grave concerns regarding the ongoing voter list revision, asserting that it is being manipulated to 'snatch votes' from common people.

She particularly highlighted the plight of minorities and Scheduled Castes (SCs), alleging that their names are being arbitrarily removed from the electoral rolls. According to Banerjee, this is a calculated strategy by the BJP to weaken the electoral base of opposing parties and consolidate its own power.

Addressing a rally, the Chief Minister passionately urged the ECI to uphold its constitutional duty and remain an independent, unbiased body.

'The Election Commission must function independently and not become a puppet of the central government,' she emphasized, warning against actions that could erode public trust in the electoral system. Her party, the TMC, has reportedly compiled detailed lists of names that have been erroneously deleted or transferred, which they intend to present to the ECI.

The political climate in West Bengal remains charged, with the TMC and BJP locked in an intense rivalry.

Banerjee's remarks are seen as a direct challenge to both the ECI's autonomy and the Modi government's perceived overreach. She reiterated her commitment to fighting for the democratic rights of every citizen and hinted at exploring all available avenues, including legal recourse, to ensure fairness and transparency in the upcoming elections.

This latest salvo from Mamata Banerjee underscores the escalating tensions between the state and central authorities, setting the stage for what promises to be a fiercely contested electoral period where the integrity of the voter list will be a crucial battleground.