Abhishek Banerjee Accuses BJP of Hindering Helicopter Flight Ahead of Rally

TMC Leader's Allegations Against BJP

On Tuesday, Abhishek Banerjee, a prominent leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of obstructing his helicopter from taking off as he was en route to address a public gathering in Birbhum's Rampurhat. He expressed his apologies for the delay, stating that the elections have not yet commenced, but the BJP has already begun its tactics through a Special Intensive Review (SIR). Banerjee emphasized that despite the BJP's attempts to hinder him, he is determined and more stubborn than the BJP.

Banerjee further claimed that he coordinated with Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren to arrange for a helicopter to reach the rally site, given that his own helicopter was denied clearance. He stated, "I was resolute that no matter what, I would arrive at the venue as a TMC worker, and even if only ten people were present, I would address them. I was grateful to see that, despite the delays, many mothers and sisters came out in large numbers, both inside and outside the ground."

Criticism of BJP's Tactics

In his remarks, Banerjee likened the BJP to a snake, warning that if allowed to remain unchecked, it would strike. While addressing a rally in Alipurduar as part of the 'Abar Jeetbe Bangla' campaign ahead of the upcoming elections, he urged voters to stand in line and teach the BJP a lesson through the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). He stated, "Whether you keep one snake or eighteen behind your house, it will eventually bite you. This time, ensure that no snake remains in Alipurduar during the elections. I am ten times more stubborn than the BJP, and only the BJP bends in the face of such behavior. Stand in line during the upcoming elections and teach them a lesson through the EVMs."