BJP seeks halt to Mamata Banerjee’s campaign, TMC hits back
The Statesman | 1 April 2026
In a significant move, a delegation of the Bharatiya Janata Party approached the Election Commission of India in New Delhi on Monday, demanding to stop the election campaign of Mamata Banerjee, alleging that she is intimidating voters.
The BJP delegation, led by Sukanta Majumdar, included senior leaders such as Kiren Rijiju and Piyush Goyal.
After meeting officials at the Commission’s office, Majumdar said, “We have submitted a six-point memorandum. We demanded that under relevant provisions of the law, strict action should be taken action against chief minister Banerjee.”
According to the BJP, the Trinamul Congress chairperson has been threatening voters and allegedly issuing warnings that could endanger their safety.
Majumdar claimed that Banerjee’s remarks suggest that voters supporting the BJP may face consequences after the elections.
“Out of fear of defeat, Mamata Banerjee has become desperate and is now trying to intimidate voters,” Majumdar told reporters.
Describing the situation in West Bengal alarming, Majumdar said, “It is surprising to find that a chief minister of a state is indirectly threatening the voters. She is suggesting that those voting for the BJP might have to publicly declare their non-association with the party.”
The BJP further urged the Election Commission of India to ensure free and fair polling in the state.
Majumdar said the full Bench of the Commission has assured them that necessary steps will be taken to guarantee peaceful elections.
The BJP cited specific instances to substantiate its allegations. Among them were remarks purportedly made by Banerjee on 25 March at an election rally in Mainaguri, where she allegedly suggested that residents would be compelled to display posters outside their homes declaring they do not support the BJP. The party termed such remarks as an infringement on the freedom of political expression and voter autonomy.
In response, the ruling Trinamul Congress dismissed the allegations and accused the BJP of acting out of fear.
Party vice-president Joyprakash Majumdar said the BJP is already “defeated in spirit” and is attempting to use the Commission to curb Banerjee’s campaign.
“They are afraid of Mamata Banerjee. Even with top leaders like the Prime Minister and home minister campaigning, they see no results. Now they want to stop her campaign through the Commission,” he said, adding that the BJP has “lost the match even before it has begun.”