A major political controversy has erupted in West Bengal after the Election Commission of India (ECI) carried out a late-night reshuffle of top administrative and police officials ahead of the Assembly elections.
The sweeping changes included the removal of key positions such as the Director General of Police, Kolkata Police Commissioner, Chief Secretary, and Home Secretary, triggering sharp reactions from the ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC).
New Appointments Announced
As part of the reshuffle, Siddh Nath Gupta has been appointed as the new DGP and IGP of West Bengal, while Nataraj Ramesh Babu will head Correctional Services. Ajay Mukand Ranade has been named ADG (Law and Order), and Ajay Kumar Nand has taken over as the new Kolkata Police Commissioner.
Mamata Banerjee Attacks ECI
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched a strong attack on the poll body, accusing it of acting under the influence of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
“The ECI is working at the behest of BJP. Earlier, such decisions were taken after consulting the state government. At 1 am, I got a message that Chief Secretary Nandini Chakraborty has been removed,” she said.
Banerjee also termed the removal of Chakraborty—West Bengal’s first woman Chief Secretary—as an anti-women move, alleging that it reflects BJP’s mindset.
‘We Will Win Again’ – TMC’s Big Claim
Despite the reshuffle, Banerjee expressed confidence that TMC will return to power.
“We will again form the government. People know the real face of BJP,” she said, accusing the party of being “anti-Bengali” and interfering in local culture.
She also made strong remarks about alleged threats and recent incidents involving party leaders, stating that such actions would not deter her.
Political Tensions Rise Ahead of Polls
The Chief Minister’s sharp reaction has intensified the political battle in the state, with elections approaching fast. The reshuffle by the ECI is likely to remain a major flashpoint between TMC and BJP in the coming days.
With both sides trading accusations, the stage is set for a high-voltage electoral contest in West Bengal.
