Abhishek Banerjee Challenges Amit Shah Ahead of West Bengal Elections

In a bold move ahead of the West Bengal elections, TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee has challenged Home Minister Amit Shah to stay in Kolkata on counting day. Banerjee accused the BJP of intimidating TMC workers and expressed confidence in Mamata Banerjee's re-election. He emphasized the importance of the upcoming vote, framing it as a battle between the power of Delhi and the people of Bengal. With claims of threats against TMC members and a promise to hold the BJP accountable, Banerjee's statements set the stage for a heated electoral contest. He also assured that key welfare schemes would continue under TMC's governance.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 18, 2026, 12:37 IST

TMC Leader's Bold Challenge

As the voting date approaches in West Bengal, senior TMC leader and MP Abhishek Banerjee has issued a challenge to Home Minister Amit Shah. He stated that if Shah has the courage, he should remain in Kolkata on the counting day, suggesting that they will see what happens then. Banerjee appeared quite confident about Mamata Banerjee's chances of securing a fourth term in office.

During an election rally in Bhagwanpur, East Medinipur district, Banerjee accused the BJP of intimidating its party workers ahead of the elections. He urged Home Minister Shah to be present on May 4, the day of counting, emphasizing that voting for the 294-member assembly will occur in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with results announced on May 4.

Banerjee claimed that they have been receiving threats. He remarked that the Home Minister has warned TMC workers not to step outside their homes, or they would face imprisonment. He challenged anyone to come and intimidate the people of Bengal.

What List Has Abhishek Prepared?
In this election, the BJP and TMC are set for a direct contest once again. Abhishek hinted at having prepared a list, stating that he has documented details block by block and panchayat by panchayat. He indicated that they will settle scores, including principal and interest. This statement suggests a politically charged response to previous claims by the BJP that many of its workers have been killed and threatened under TMC rule.

‘Delhi Power vs Bengal People’
Abhishek Banerjee characterized this electoral battle as a confrontation between ‘Delhi power’ and ‘the people of Bengal’. He noted that on one side are the powerful institutions and leaders from Delhi, while on the other are the 100 million people of Bengal, including a woman wearing slippers, referring to CM Mamata Banerjee. He accused the BJP of insulting Bengalis by labeling them as ‘Bangladeshi’ and targeting their food culture. He urged voters to respond decisively through their votes.

He also highlighted the popular schemes of the Mamata government, asserting that initiatives like ‘Lakshmi Bhandar’ will continue. He assured that as long as the TMC exists, mothers will continue to receive benefits from the Lakshmi Bhandar scheme.