Abhishek Banerjee Accuses BJP of Intimidation Ahead of West Bengal Elections

In a recent rally, Abhishek Banerjee, a senior leader of the Trinamool Congress, accused the BJP of intimidating party workers ahead of the West Bengal elections. He challenged Amit Shah to be present in Kolkata on the vote counting day, asserting that such tactics would only strengthen their resolve. Banerjee also highlighted issues like the proposed Uniform Civil Code and the recognition of the Kudmali language, criticizing the BJP for its promises and actions. As the election date approaches, tensions rise between the two parties, with Banerjee vowing to hold the BJP accountable for past actions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 16, 2026, 19:15 IST

Allegations of Intimidation by BJP

Senior leader of the Trinamool Congress, Abhishek Banerjee, has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to intimidate his party's workers in the lead-up to the West Bengal elections. He challenged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to be present in Kolkata on the vote counting day, May 4. This statement was a response to Shah's remark suggesting that TMC goons should stay home on voting day. Banerjee asserted that the more they attempt to defame him, the stronger he will become.

A Call to Action in East Medinipur

During an election rally in Bhagwanpur, East Medinipur, Banerjee stated, 'If you have the courage, be present in Kolkata on counting day, and then we will see.' He expressed confidence that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee would return to power with a strong mandate for a fourth term. He alleged that BJP leaders have been issuing threats, saying, 'We are receiving threats. The Home Minister claims that TMC workers should not step out of their homes, or they will be jailed. I want to tell them that no one has the courage to intimidate the people of Bengal here.'

Political Retaliation Signals

As the election campaign heats up, Banerjee hinted at potential political retaliation against the BJP. He mentioned, 'I have prepared a list—block by block, panchayat by panchayat. We will settle scores, with interest.' The BJP has previously claimed that many of its workers were killed and intimidated during TMC's rule.

Use of Central Agencies Alleged

Banerjee further accused the central agencies of being used to influence the electoral process. He stated, 'The Enforcement Directorate (ED), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Income Tax Department, Election Commission—nothing will work. The more you try to defame us, the stronger we will become.' He characterized this contest as a battle between the powerful leaders of Delhi and the people of Bengal, emphasizing, 'On one side are the powerful leaders and institutions of Delhi, and on the other, there are 10 crore people of Bengal and a woman in sandals.'

Targeting BJP on UCC and Kudmali Language

Banerjee also criticized the BJP regarding the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and the pending recognition of the Kudmali language. Speaking at a rally in Gopiballavpur, he highlighted these issues. He referred to the BJP's manifesto, which promises to implement the UCC in West Bengal, claiming it would adversely affect tribal customs and practices. He accused the BJP of dividing people on religious lines.

Demand for Kudmali Language Recognition

He accused the central government of ignoring the demand to include the Kudmali language, widely spoken in Jhargram district and other parts of the state, in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. Banerjee noted that the TMC government had written to the center two months ago requesting this inclusion, but the Narendra Modi government has yet to take any action. The BJP's manifesto also promises to include Kudmali and Rajbanshi languages in the Eighth Schedule. Banerjee warned women against applying for the proposed monthly assistance of ₹3,000, alleging that no BJP-ruled state has implemented such a scheme despite similar promises. The elections for the 294-member state assembly will take place in two phases on April 23 and 29, with counting set for May 4.