Forces trying to create unrest ahead of polls, West Bengal heading towards ‘undeclared President’s Rule’: CM Mamata Banerjee

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP-led central government, alleging that the state is being pushed into an “undeclared President’s Rule” and democratic processes are being undermined ahead of the two-phased assembly elections.

Speaking at the Trinamool Congress party’s manifesto launch event in Kolkata, Banerjee cautioned people about alleged attempts by forces from outside the borders to create unrest and riots in the state, a situation she feared could lead to the imposition of the President’s Rule.

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“My appeal to the people of Bengal: remain united and vigilant. Do not let fear stop you, and do not accept bribes or inducements. Forces from across the border are trying to bring money, arms, and unrest to create riots in our state. They aim to destabilise Bengal and impose indirect control through President’s Rule. We have fulfilled all our promises of development and progress. Now, it is your duty to protect Bengal’s unity and resist any attempts to undermine it. Stand together, remain strong, and ensure that the government accountable to the people prevails,” she said.

She said that the current situation gives impression of “an undeclared form of central control, almost like a President’s Rule without officially declaring it.”

“This raises serious questions about governance and fairness, especially during elections. Many people feel that the system is being disrupted and that there is a lack of clear, people-focused policies. At such a time, the responsibility lies with all of us as citizens to stay aware, think critically, and work towards protecting democratic values and the future of the country,” she said.

She said that her government’s governance model has been inclusive, asserting that Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs and Christians are equal for her.

Banerjee also criticised the central government’s policies, calling them anti-women and one-sided, and asserted that her administration had fulfilled all development promises.

“We reject politics that divide people–Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, all are equal in our Bengal. This government at the centre has failed women and is pushing one-sided policies that harm the people,” said the West Bengal Chief Minister.

The Bengal CM further alleged that key officials who are not familiar with local conditions have been deployed as observes. This, she claimed, may raise questions about accountability as such officials are not aware of the ground realities and may not be able to discharge their duties effectively.

“There are also reports that several Principal Secretaries from different departments have been reassigned as observers. The concern here is that officials who are unfamiliar with the local conditions of a state may find it difficult to effectively carry out their responsibilities. If something goes wrong, it becomes unclear who should be held accountable,” she said.