Former West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee on Friday launched a strong attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of targeting TMC leaders and workers while asserting that political pressure would not silence her.
In a video message shared on social media, Banerjee addressed the ongoing political turmoil within the TMC and alleged that the BJP had consistently attempted to intimidate the party and its leadership.
“To silence me, you would have to kill me. Yes, you didn’t spare any effort on that,” Banerjee said.
Mamata Banerjee accuses BJP of targeting TMC leaders
The TMC chief alleged that several senior party leaders had faced political attacks and harassment over the years. She named leaders including Mahua Moitra, Abhishek Banerjee, and Kalyan Banerjee, claiming they had been repeatedly targeted.
“Whom haven’t you assaulted? You attacked Mahua, Abhishek, Kalyan. You attacked my home,” Banerjee said in her message.
Her remarks come at a time when the Trinamool Congress is facing one of its biggest internal challenges in recent years.
TMC faces internal political crisis
The latest statement comes amid reports of growing dissent within the party. A rebel faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee has reportedly claimed the support of around 60 MLAs. Reports also suggest that at least 20 rebel legislators have merged with the Tripura-based NCPI.
The developments have intensified political speculation ahead of key electoral battles in West Bengal.
Claims of harassment against party workers
Banerjee also alleged that several TMC leaders and workers had been subjected to harsh treatment while in custody.
According to her, some party colleagues were forced to sleep on bare floors, while others were allegedly paraded in restraints or subjected to humiliating treatment.
She claimed these incidents reflected attempts to suppress political opposition and maintained that the TMC would continue its political fight despite the challenges.
Criticises school meal policy
The TMC chief also criticised the BJP government’s reported pilot project to replace eggs with vegetarian alternatives in mid-day meals at select government schools in West Bengal.
Banerjee argued that the focus should remain on improving children’s nutrition and welfare.
“Children do not get eggs in their mid-day meals. Yet you are busy with such actions. This was never the culture of Bengal,” she said.
She also expressed concern over the condition of cooks and helpers associated with the mid-day meal scheme, urging greater attention to their welfare.
Political tensions continue
Banerjee’s remarks underscore the escalating political confrontation between the TMC and the BJP as West Bengal’s political landscape witnesses increasing internal challenges and sharp exchanges between rival parties.
The BJP has not immediately responded to the allegations made by Banerjee in her video message.
