West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, during her ongoing tour in North Bengal, emphasized the Trinamul Congress’s (TMC) capability to defeat Congress, CPI(M), and BJP. This declaration comes amid a growing tension between TMC and Congress over seat-sharing for the upcoming Lok Sabha Election. Despite Congress’s efforts to form an alliance, Mamata Banerjee firmly rejected the idea, stating that only the party of “Maa-Mati-Manush” (Mother, Soil, and People) can prevail against other political forces.
Key Points:
- Mamata Banerjee’s Assertion: Mamata Banerjee, addressing a rally in Raiganj, asserted that only the TMC holds the power to defeat Congress, CPI(M), and BJP. She highlighted her party’s commitment to the people, contrasting it with others seeking votes without offering tangible benefits.
- Change in Outreach Style: In a strategic move to counter Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in North Bengal, Mamata Banerjee altered her public outreach style. She engaged in roadshows, walking close to the crowd, similar to Gandhi’s approach.
- Bengal Leading the Way: Mamata Banerjee expressed confidence that Bengal, with its historical significance in India’s freedom movement, would guide the nation in the future. She emphasized the state’s potential to lead and inspire others.
- Congress’s Attempt to Woo Mamata: Congress, led by state party chief Adhir Chowdhury, attempted to appease Mamata Banerjee by supporting her demand for funds under various social welfare schemes. Adhir Chowdhury suggested that Mamata Banerjee’s threat to sit for dharna would gain his support if she invited him.
- Congress’s Question on Dharna Location: While expressing support for Mamata Banerjee’s demand, Adhir Chowdhury questioned why the Chief Minister wasn’t initiating the dharna in New Delhi to attract the Centre’s attention. He suggested filing a public interest litigation at the Supreme Court as an alternative.
Mamata Banerjee’s strong stance against forming an alliance with Congress sets the stage for a competitive political landscape in West Bengal. The exchange of statements between the TMC and Congress reflects the complex dynamics leading up to the Lok Sabha Election and the efforts to secure political dominance in the state.
