Mamata Banerjee Oversees Kali Puja Prep Amid Alleged Attack on Abhishek Banerjee
Mamata Banerjee prepares for Kali Puja at home as TMC alleges BJP-backed attacks on Abhishek Banerjee's residence in Kolkata.
While West Bengal prepares for the festive spirit of Kali Puja, the political atmosphere in Kolkata has turned volatile. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was seen personally overseeing the Mamata Banerjee Kali Puja preparations at her residence on Sunday, even as her party, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), launched a scathing attack on the BJP following an alleged midnight raid on the home of National General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee.
Midnight Chaos: Alleged Attack on Abhishek Banerjee's Home
The festivities were overshadowed by claims of violence and intimidation. According to TMC leaders, the residence of Abhishek Banerjee was targeted in the early hours of Sunday morning. TMC MP Saugata Roy condemned the incident, stating that the attack occurred around 2:00 AM, a time when preparations were already underway for Abhishek Banerjee's upcoming birthday.
Roy asserted that the presence of party workers prevented the attackers from gaining entry into the house. He characterized the incident as a typical "BJP style" of operation, accusing the BJP-led government of undermining democratic values.
TMC Alleges 'State-Sponsored Terrorism'
The tension escalated further with statements from TMC leader Baiswanor Chatterjee, who alleged that party workers were not only beaten up but are now facing fabricated legal charges. Chatterjee raised serious questions regarding the impartiality of the police, highlighting a disparity in how cases were filed.
He claimed that while three individuals from their side were arrested under non-bailable sections, the complaints filed by the TMC were treated as bailable. Labeling the situation as "state-sponsored terrorism," Chatterjee vowed that the party would fight against the actions of the Kalighat police station.
Abhishek Banerjee Slams Police and Judiciary
Abhishek Banerjee himself took to the public to voice his outrage, alleging that "BJP goons" attacked his home under the direct watch of the Kolkata police. This incident follows a previous warning from Banerjee on Friday, where he claimed that unidentified individuals had been conducting reconnaissance of his office and residence for two days.
"After I released the recce video this morning, my house was attacked just now, at 2 AM by BJP goons, right under the watch of the Kolkata police," Abhishek Banerjee stated.
In a sharp critique of the legal system, Banerjee expressed frustration toward the Calcutta High Court and the Supreme Court of India, accusing them of being "mute spectators" while these events unfolded. He further indicated that video evidence of the attack would be uploaded soon.
Festivities Continue Despite Political Turmoil
Despite the escalating face-off between the TMC and the BJP, the party maintains that their religious and cultural celebrations will not be disrupted. Baiswanor Chatterjee emphasized that the annual Kali Puja at the Chief Minister's residence is a tradition that will proceed as planned.
He stated that Mamata Banerjee is personally leading the arrangements, sending a clear message that the party will not be deterred by attempts to suppress their activities or harass their leadership. The TMC has affirmed its resolve to continue its political struggle under the guidance of both Mamata and Abhishek Banerjee.