Feb 17 • 11:20 UTC 🇮🇳 India Aaj Tak (Hindi)

'If they are 420... then I am 440 volts', Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee's sharp attack on EC

Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee strongly criticized the Election Commission during the Special Intensive Review (SIR) process of the voter list, calling it a 'torture commission' and alleging it works in a dictatorial manner.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched a vehement critique of the Election Commission (EC) during the Special Intensive Review (SIR) process concerning the voter list. She labeled the commission as a 'torture commission' and accused it of operating with the same oppressive style as historical figures like Hitler and Tughlaq. Banerjee raised concerns about the EC's alleged interference in the administrative processes by instructing district collectors, warning that her party, the Trinamool Congress, would vehemently oppose any removal of legitimate voters from the list.

Banerjee expressed her willingness to cooperate fully with the EC in ensuring a fair SIR process but made it clear that any arbitrary actions would not be tolerated. She stated that she does not blame all members of the commission, holding one individual primarily responsible for the ongoing issues. Her remarks reflect a deep frustration with the electoral process in Bengal and a commitment to defending the rights of voters, emphasizing her readiness to face imprisonment or make any sacrifice for the people's interests.

In a pointed comparison, Banerjee questioned the inconsistency in documentation requirements, pointing out that the same documents accepted during the SIR process in Bihar were not recognized in Bengal. This highlights her concerns about possible discrimination or inequities in the treatment of voters, further fueling her assertion that the EC is not acting impartially in the electoral process. Her strong rhetoric underlines the intense political climate in West Bengal and her resolve not to back down in the face of what she perceives as an unjust electoral oversight.

📡 Similar Coverage