‘Joint conspiracy’: Mamata blames BJP and EC for Malda judicial officers’ siege, warns of President’s Rule plot
The Statesman | 3 April 2026
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday claimed that the harassment of seven judicial adjudication officers in Malda’s Kaliachak was part of a “joint conspiracy” involving the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Election Commission of India. She said the alleged plan was aimed at disturbing the electoral process and creating conditions for the imposition of President’s Rule in the state.
In her address at an election rally in Sagardighi, located in neighbouring Murshidabad district, the Chief Minister said the responsibility of ensuring security for judicial officers lay with the poll panel. She pointed out that with the model code of conduct in place, her government has limited administrative control, and appealed to people not to react to provocation despite their concerns.
“It was the ECI’s duty to ensure the protection of the judicial officers. With the model code of conduct being in force, I do not have any control over the administration. But I request all of you not to be trapped in provocation. I know that the grievances of those whose names have been deleted in the judicial adjudication process are genuine.”
Also Read: No food, no water, 9 hours under siege: SC calls Malda attack on 7 judicial officers ‘criminal contempt’; protests enter Day 2
Banerjee said she understands that many people are upset after their names were removed during the process and that their concerns are valid. At the same time, she appealed to them to stay calm and not let the situation turn tense.
“I know that the grievances of those whose names have been deleted in the judicial adjudication process are genuine. But if you have faith in me, do not be excited. We have to protect West Bengal. Do not forget that the BJP is behind the Malta incident with assistance from the Commission. Their only aim is to upset the election process and get President’s Rule imposed in West Bengal,” the CM said.
Without directly naming them, she also hinted at the possible role of smaller political outfits in the incident. Referring to recent developments, Banerjee said one leader had arrived from Hyderabad (Asaduddin Owaisi) while another (erstwhile Trinamool Congress legislator Humayun Kabir), whom she described as a “traitor”, had emerged locally with alleged backing from the BJP. She accused them of instigating people to block roads and surround judicial officers.
The Chief Minister also criticised the administrative response, saying the newly appointed Chief Secretary, brought in by the Election Commission, failed to manage the situation effectively. She added that the Malda episode had damaged the state’s reputation and urged people not to take the law into their own hands.
“If you do not want the BJP to take control of power in West Bengal, maintain peace. The Malda incident has tarnished the image of West Bengal. The new Chief Secretary, who had been appointed by the ECI to replace the earlier one, could not handle things. I request you not to take the law into your own hands,” the WB CM said.