West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday strongly condemned the alleged attack on judicial officers engaged in the voter list revision process in Malda, accusing the BJP of orchestrating the incident. She also asked Union Home Minister Amit Shah to resign.
Addressing a public meeting in Murshidabad, Mamata alleged that the siege of seven judicial officers involved in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process was part of a larger conspiracy.
“Amit Shah orchestrated this entire affair. He must resign,” she said.
The Chief Minister was referring to Wednesday night’s incident in Malda, where seven judicial officials were reportedly held under siege for over nine hours. Stones and bricks were also allegedly hurled at their vehicles during the rescue operation.
Mamata further directed her criticism at Asaduddin Owaisi, leader of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), claiming that external elements were brought in to incite unrest. “Someone flew in from Hyderabad; the BJP paid you to provoke people and orchestrate the siege,” she alleged.
She accused the BJP of attempting to destabilise the state through indirect means. “Since they cannot win Bengal electorally, they are trying unfair means to seize control. Their plan is to get elections cancelled and impose President’s Rule,” Mamata claimed.
Amid rising tensions, the Chief Minister appealed to the public to remain calm and avoid provocation. “We will provide legal assistance to those whose names have been excluded from the voter lists, but the movement must remain peaceful,” she said, urging people not to take the law into their own hands.
She also warned against 'communal elements' allegedly attempting to influence voters by distributing money and creating divisions. “Do not fall into their trap. Protect your voting rights,” she told the gathering.
Mamata also criticised the Election Commission of India, accusing it of failing to ensure adequate security during the SIR process. “I no longer have control over law and order. The Commission has appointed its own officials, yet failed to provide protection,” she said.
In a veiled attack on local leaders, she alleged that some individuals were working at the behest of external forces and raising sensitive issues ahead of the elections in order to influence voters.
Calling for restraint, the Chief Minister warned that those engaging in unrest could face legal consequences, including action by central agencies, such as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
“Maintain peace. Do not let anyone incite you,” Mamata urged, adding that the situation in Malda should not be allowed to escalate further.
The incident and the subsequent political exchanges have further intensified the already charged atmosphere ahead of polls
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