New Delhi: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the Election Commission of denying her permission to hold a public meeting in the Collin Lane area, while allegedly fast tracking approval for a rally by Prime Minister Narendra Modi within hours.
Addressing a gathering in the Jorasanko Assembly constituency, Banerjee expressed dissatisfaction over what she described as unequal treatment. She stated that her scheduled meeting was refused outright, adding that such a decision would have been understandable if the venue had already been allocated. However, she claimed she was explicitly informed that permission would not be granted, even as approvals for other events were processed quickly.
The Chief Minister also raised concerns about alleged administrative interference during the election period. She claimed that certain officials had been selectively appointed and were creating obstacles for her party’s campaign activities. Referring to a recent incident, Banerjee alleged that her flight was delayed on the runway, suggesting that the move was intentional and aimed at disrupting her schedule. She further claimed that a similar delay had affected another political leader’s travel.
Banerjee said her party faced repeated challenges in securing clearances for campaign events, accusing authorities of creating unnecessary hurdles. She also alleged that a political figure assigned election duties was causing difficulties for local residents and interfering with the campaign environment.
The allegations come at a time when West Bengal is witnessing an intense electoral contest. The Trinamool Congress is seeking another term in power, while the Bharatiya Janata Party is attempting to expand its presence in the state. Meanwhile, the Congress, in alliance with Left parties, is aiming to re establish itself after a poor showing in the previous election.
Polling for the 294 member Assembly is being conducted in two phases, with counting scheduled for early May.
