BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, promising that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would set up a commission to investigate the alleged atrocities in Sandeshkhali and send Banerjee to jail if it comes to power in the state.
Addressing a BJP outreach program in Sandeshkhali, North 24 Parganas, Adhikari accused Banerjee of filing false cases against women in the area and shielding local Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders accused of misconduct.
“The People of Sandeshkhali Will Not Forget”
“You (Banerjee) have asked the people to forget whatever has happened. The people of Sandeshkhali will not forget. Even I will not forget. If BJP comes to power in West Bengal, a commission would be set up to probe into the Sandeshkhali events,” said Adhikari, the leader of the opposition in the Bengal assembly.
He further alleged that Banerjee had framed women from Sandeshkhali and sent them to jail, warning that the BJP would hold her accountable. “BJP will send you to jail too for lodging false cases against women,” he said, emphasizing that any action would remain within the bounds of the Constitution.
Sandeshkhali Violence Under Scrutiny
Adhikari’s remarks come a day after Banerjee visited Sandeshkhali and urged residents to “let bygones be bygones.” Her visit followed violent protests earlier in February 2024, sparked by allegations of sexual assault and land grabbing by local TMC leaders, including Shahjahan Sheikh.
Adhikari accused Banerjee of using the protests to suppress dissent against her party’s strongmen ahead of the 2024 elections. “She conspired to slap false cases against women to punish those protesting against TMC atrocities,” he claimed.
Political Repercussions Ahead of 2024 Elections
The sharp exchange between Banerjee and Adhikari underscores the escalating tensions in West Bengal as the state gears up for the 2024 general elections. The BJP has been ramping up its outreach efforts in the region, while the TMC seeks to consolidate its support base amid allegations of corruption and violence.