Mamata Banerjee Alleges Voter Suppression Bid at Eid Gathering in Kolkata

Kolkata, March 2026 : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday accused the BJP-led central government of attempting to undermine democratic rights by targeting voters through an ongoing revision of electoral rolls ahead of the state Assembly elections.

Addressing a large gathering after Eid prayers at Kolkata’s Red Road, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo alleged that the “special intensive review” of voter lists is being used as a tool to delete names of genuine voters. She claimed that the exercise disproportionately affects minority-dominated areas and is part of a broader strategy to influence the electoral outcome in the state.

“We will not let Narendra Modi and the BJP take away your right to vote. We will fight till the end to protect democracy and the rights of every citizen,” Banerjee said, drawing strong support from the crowd.

The TMC has consistently raised concerns over the voter list revision process, alleging that it is being misused to disenfranchise sections of the electorate. The issue has sparked a political controversy in the state, with the ruling party accusing the Centre of interfering in the democratic process.

Banerjee warned that her government and party would firmly resist any move that attempts to deprive citizens of their voting rights under the pretext of verification or review. In a sharp remark targeting political opponents, she said that those trying to divide Bengal and weaken its democratic fabric would not succeed.

At the same time, the Chief Minister emphasised the importance of communal harmony, highlighting Bengal’s long-standing tradition of unity among diverse communities. “Bengal believes in unity. Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians—all live together here. We will not allow anyone to break this social fabric,” she said.

Her remarks come at a time when political tensions are rising in the run-up to the Assembly elections. With voter list revisions underway and allegations of irregularities surfacing, the debate over electoral fairness is expected to intensify in the coming weeks.