BJP dismisses TMC’s ‘central force’ charge ahead of polls

With the 2026 Assembly elections drawing closer, the use of central forces and central agencies in elections brings into focus the familiar flashpoint.

The Trinamul Congress (TMC) has long accused the BJP of using central forces and investigative agencies as political instruments to capture power in Opposition-ruled states. Citing instances from previous elections in other parts of the country, the ruling party in Bengal has reiterated that similar tactics could be deployed in the run-up to the 2026 Assembly polls.

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However, West Bengal BJP president Shamik Bhattacharya appeared to brush aside the allegations, indicating that the party is not overly concerned about the controversy. Speaking at a Press conference, he asserted that the BJP is preparing in earnest for the 2026 contest and will intensify its campaign from 1 March. The debate has resurfaced amid discussions over the deployment of Central forces and the role of central agencies during elections. Opposition parties claim that such factors have played a decisive role in past electoral outcomes. The Election Commission of India has already indicated that central forces, if deployed, will not remain inactive and that steps would be taken to prevent a repeat of earlier complaints regarding their functioning.

Mr Bhattacharya, however, maintained that similar allegations surface before every election. “People know what actually happens on the ground,” he said, adding that the BJP is not relying on any external support to fight the upcoming polls. “This time, we will fight the election in our own way,” he remarked, signalling confidence in the party’s organisational preparedness.

He further said that the party is not worried about issues such as the publication of electoral rolls, the deployment of forces, or the number of phases in which polling will be conducted. According to him, the BJP will focus on reaching out to voters peacefully and increasing voter turnout in its favour. His remarks on minority voters have also triggered debate. Stating that it is their democratic right to choose whom to vote for, he claimed that even if they do not support the BJP, it would not prevent the party from coming to power in the state. He also urged sections of the minority community to introspect on the role of the ruling dispensation. With months to go before the polls, political sparring has clearly intensified, and the BJP’s confident posture has added a new dimension to the evolving electoral narrative.