West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the Election Commission (EC) while addressing a public rally in Farakka, alleging unprecedented administrative overreach ahead of the West Bengal Assembly Elections.
Expressing strong displeasure over the transfer of officials, Mamata claimed that even civic bodies were being brought under the Commission’s control.
“I have never before heard of corporations, too, falling under their control,” she said. Alleging bias, she further remarked that officials from Bengal were being sent out while those “close to the BJP” were being brought into the state.
Reiterating her political appeal, Mamata told the gathering, “Bhabanipur is not my constituency alone; I am a candidate in all 294 seats.” Urging voters to rise above divisions of religion and caste, she appealed for support to the ruling party’s ‘Jora Phool’ (twin flowers) symbol, stating that only her government could “protect Bengal.”
Shifting focus, the Chief Minister highlighted the issue of riverbank erosion along the Ganges in the Farakka region. Referring to the Farakka Barrage, she noted that it falls under the jurisdiction of the Central Government and urged authorities to undertake dredging operations to address silt accumulation.
“Silt deposition has reduced the water-holding capacity, leading to floods every year,” she said, adding that while the natural flow of the river cannot be stopped, the state government has initiated bunding projects and is exploring long-term solutions.
Mamata also voiced concerns over the impact of erosion on local residents, alleging that despite repeated appeals, the Centre had failed to take concrete action.
“Every year, vast areas of land are submerged. We provide assistance, but no help comes from the Centre,” she said, adding that embankment construction efforts were underway to mitigate the damage.
Addressing socio-economic issues, the Chief Minister spoke about the plight of bidi workers and announced that multiple welfare schemes had been introduced for their benefit. She also highlighted free social security coverage, stating that the state government bears the insurance costs. Emphasising minority development, Mamata said that her government had invested in training and upliftment initiatives.
“There was a time when minorities were struggling. Now, they are securing high-ranking positions, becoming IAS and IPS officers,” she said, while accusing the BJP of being unable to accept such progress.
The rally comes amid heightened political activity in the state, with leaders intensifying campaigns ahead of the upcoming elections.
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