BJP believes in no faith and fosters communal division: Mamata

Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday intensified her attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging that the party’s policies and governance approach could adversely affect the cultural and social fabric of the state. Addressing an election rally in Purulia, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader said that the BJP seeks to impose restrictions on the dietary habits of Bengalis, which traditionally include fish, meat and eggs.

Banerjee further accused the BJP of fostering communal divisions and unrest. She said that the BJP believes in no faith. She also said that tribal communities face exploitation, and women encounter increased vulnerability in states governed by the party. These points form a key part of the TMC’s campaign narrative as it seeks to consolidate voter support ahead of the assembly elections.

The Chief Minister also criticised Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the BJP’s charge sheet against the TMC government, arguing that scrutiny should instead be directed at the BJP’s own record. She alleged that pre-election financial assurances by the BJP are often withdrawn after polls.

In addition, Banerjee raised concerns over recent administrative developments, stating that several officials who had worked closely with her government were removed or transferred, which she described as undermining governance.

The West Bengal Assembly elections, covering 294 constituencies, are scheduled to be held in two phases on April 23 and 29, with results expected on May 4.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India on Sunday ordered the transfer of 83 Block Development Officers (BDOs) and Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) in poll-bound West Bengal, ahead of Assembly elections scheduled next month.

In a communication sent to Chief Secretary Dushyant Nariala through the office of the State Chief Electoral Officer, the Commission shared the list of officials who have been reassigned.