Manas Dasgupta
NEW DELHI, Mar 20: The West Bengal chief minister Banerjee on Friday targeted the BJP, accusing it of administrative interference and raising concerns over governance during the election period.
Talking to media persons in Kolkata, she alleged that elements from border areas were attempting to funnel money and arms into the state to trigger unrest and riots, warning that such developments could pave the way for the imposition of “indirect President’s Rule.”
Banerjee urged people to remain united and vigilant, calling on them to resist any attempts to disturb peace and democracy in the state. “My appeal to the people of Bengal is to stay united and alert. Do not give in to fear or fall for bribes and inducements.
“Forces from across the border are trying to bring in money, arms and unrest to incite riots. Their aim is to destabilise Bengal and impose indirect control through President’s Rule. We have delivered on our promises of development. Now it is up to you to protect Bengal’s unity and ensure that a government accountable to the people prevails,” she said.
Accusing the BJP, she said “The BJP government at the centre is carrying out a deep conspiracy. The country has been pushed close to destruction. There is no proper law and order in many states, and people do not feel at peace. The politics of division is being practised, creating a war-like situation.”
Alleging the Centre was planning to take away citizenships of the people in the name of “National Register of Citizens” (NRC), Ms Banerjee said “Unofficial President’s Rule imposed in Bengal because BJP knows it will be defeated in upcoming Assembly polls,” says CM Mamata Banerjee. She also alleged that Centre is planning to take away citizenship of people in name of NRC and Census after Bengal polls.
Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India (ECI) deputed flying squad seized ₹25 lakh in cash from a vehicle near CC-2 under ECO Park police station in Kolkata, officials said. The flying squad team was deployed for election surveillance and enforcement operations when it intercepted a suspicious vehicle. The team identified one individual, named Thakor Suraji Abhesang, who was found travelling in a car under circumstances deemed suspicious. The search led to the recovery of ₹25 lakh in cash. Further investigation was under way. The official said.
