Mamata Alleges BJP Obstruction, Warns of Electoral Manipulation at Kharda Rally

Kharda, April 2026 : The political temperature in West Bengal surged once again as Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of using administrative machinery to obstruct her campaign and influence the electoral process. Addressing a charged public rally at the Surya Sen Nagar Sports Ground in Kharda Assembly constituency of North 24 Parganas on Monday, Banerjee made a series of serious allegations, including claims that her helicopter was deliberately prevented from taking off on time to disrupt her schedule.

Banerjee, who was scheduled to arrive at the rally earlier in the afternoon, reached the venue nearly an hour late. Explaining the delay to supporters, she alleged that her aircraft had been halted on the runway for an extended period. “I had left Birbhum long ago, but I was made to wait on the runway for about half an hour. BJP members were present there, and this was done deliberately to stop me,” she claimed. She further alleged that Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren faced similar treatment, with his flight reportedly delayed by around 40 minutes.

The TMC leader accused the BJP of misusing its influence over administrative systems to create hurdles not only in her travel but also in securing permissions for political rallies. “We struggled a lot to get permission for this meeting. It seems they are seeking approval from BJP leaders before granting permission. But after the 4th, people will break their arrogance,” she said, indicating confidence in voter backlash.

Taking her criticism further, Banerjee questioned the role of central agencies and the Election Commission, accusing them of bias and overreach. Referring to the deployment of central forces during elections, she raised concerns about their purpose and conduct. “If they cannot stop terrorists elsewhere, are the people of Bengal terrorists? Why are armed forces being used to force people to vote? This is a democracy—why this intimidation?” she asked, calling the situation “tyrannical.”

Banerjee also expressed apprehensions about the integrity of the voting process, particularly the handling of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). She urged party workers and voters to remain vigilant. “Check the EVMs carefully. After voting, when the machines are transported, the central forces may be changed. Keep a close watch,” she warned. In a dramatic appeal, she even advised supporters to avoid consuming outside food and water on the day of vote counting, hinting at fears of possible foul play. “The BJP can make even machines disappear. Stay alert,” she added.

The rally also had an emotional undertone as Banerjee remembered late TMC leader Kajal Sinha, who had won the seat but passed away due to a heart attack. “I have not forgotten that loss. Today, I have nominated Devdeep Purohit in her place. He is like a son to me, experienced in journalism, and will work tirelessly for you,” she said, appealing to voters to support the TMC candidate.

Banerjee did not miss the opportunity to criticize the BJP’s vision of a “Golden Bengal.” She accused the party of attempting to impose cultural restrictions. “They talk about building a Golden Bengal but then try to control what people eat. I eat everything—litti, dhokla, sago pie—and celebrate all festivals. They want to take away people’s food habits and language,” she said, positioning herself as a defender of Bengal’s cultural diversity.

Addressing contentious national issues like the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC), Banerjee reassured the public that no one in West Bengal would be sent to detention camps. “We will protect every citizen. No one will be thrown out,” she asserted, reinforcing her party’s long-standing stance on the matter.

As the rally concluded, Banerjee left for subsequent meetings in Beleghata and her home constituency, Bhawanipur. Before departing, she issued a direct challenge to the BJP. “If you have courage, come to the field. Let the people decide whether the power of guns and agencies is greater or the power of people. In 2026, you will lose,” she declared.

With both sides intensifying their campaigns, Banerjee’s remarks signal a high-stakes political battle ahead, marked by sharp rhetoric, serious allegations, and a deeply polarized electoral environment in West Bengal.

Team Maverick