After maintaining a conspicuous silence for nearly three weeks following the 2026 Assembly election results, Mamata Banerjee, supremo of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), on Sunday broke her silence with a series of explosive allegations challenging the credibility of the electoral process.
Addressing the public through a Facebook Live session, the former Chief Minister questioned the legitimacy of the recently concluded elections, alleging widespread irregularities and a “deep-rooted conspiracy” that, she claimed, overturned what should have been a decisive victory for her party.
“An election has supposedly taken place— but was it a genuine election, or merely a farce?” Banerjee asked, pointing to what she described as “logical discrepancies” at multiple levels, from the headquarters of the Election Commission of India to counting centres across the state. She further alleged that nearly 10 million names were removed from voter lists, calling the move deliberate and targeted.
In one of her most serious accusations, Banerjee claimed that large-scale manipulation occurred during both the counting process and through electronic voting machines (EVMs). “Winning candidates were made to lose, and losing candidates were made to win,” she asserted, adding that TMC had been poised to secure between 220 and 230 seats before the results were “forcibly altered.”
Without naming him directly, Banerjee launched a sharp attack on current Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, a leading figure of the ruling BJP. She alleged that individuals linked to the ruling camp were present inside counting centres and data facilities, influencing the process.
Drawing parallels with past electoral controversies, including the Nandigram episode, Banerjee claimed that results favoring the BJP were being circulated even before official counting began. She further alleged that TMC polling agents were denied entry into counting centres and that she herself faced physical obstruction when attempting to intervene.
In a particularly contentious claim, Banerjee alleged that BJP operatives had infiltrated sensitive locations disguised as Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, raising concerns about security breaches during the electoral process.
Beyond electoral concerns, Banerjee painted a grim picture of the current political climate in West Bengal, alleging the presence of “state-sponsored terror.” She claimed that TMC workers and supporters were facing violence, coercion, and intimidation, with some allegedly being forced to resign from their positions or subjected to extreme distress.
Reflecting on her tenure in office, Banerjee contrasted her administration’s approach with the present situation. “When we were in power, we never shut down Panchayat bodies won by the opposition,” she said, adding that the BJP had historically benefited from greater institutional support due to its control at the Centre.
The BJP has not yet officially responded to these allegations. Meanwhile, Banerjee’s statements are expected to intensify political tensions in the state, with potential calls for investigations into the conduct of the elections.
Also read: Eid prayers shift to Brigade from Red Road in Kolkata
Follow us
