Kolkata, April 16 -- Trinamool Congress (TMC) national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Thursday intensified his attack on the BJP leadership, daring Union Home Minister Amit Shah to "stay in Kolkata on May 4 (day of the poll result) if he has the courage," while also accusing the Election Commission (EC) of acting as the saffron party's "real trump card".
In a strongly worded address, Banerjee linked the BJP's electoral strategy with institutional bias and flagged concerns over the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC), warning that it could have far-reaching implications for Constitutional values and social diversity.
Addressing party workers and supporters, Banerjee alleged that central BJP leaders frequently visit Bengal under heavy security cover, make provocative statements, and leave soon after, without facing the ground realities. In a direct and combative tone, he challenged Shah to remain in Kolkata without the shield of central forces and witness the public mood firsthand.
"If you have the guts, stay in Kolkata," Banerjee said, accusing the BJP leadership of relying on intimidation and external interference rather than democratic engagement. He claimed that such visits are aimed at influencing the electoral atmosphere rather than addressing people's concerns.
Banerjee reiterated that the people of Bengal would respond democratically to what he described as "outsider politics," asserting that the state would not bow to pressure tactics. From campaign platforms and in a post on X, he sharpened his criticism of the EC's neutrality, urging voters not to support those who, he alleged, forced them into long queues "to test their citizenship".
Over the UCC row, Banerjee argued that it is not merely a legal reform but one that could significantly impact Constitutional principles and individual freedoms. He warned that it might disproportionately affect certain communities, particularly Adivasis, whose customs and traditional practices could be at risk.
He also raised concerns over the Kurmali language and identity, closely linked to sections of the Adivasi and Kurmi communities in eastern India.
Questioning the Centre, he pointed out that despite the state government having sent a proposal for inclusion of Kurmali in the Eighth Schedule months ago, no action had been taken. "They can extend the tenure of ED/CBI directors with one letter, then why can't they give approval to the demand of the Kurmi brothers?" he asked.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.