Trinamool's Abhishek Banerjee Launches Scathing Attack on BJP's Poriborton Yatra
On March 8, Trinamool Congress national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee is set to hold a significant political rally in Raidighi, South 24 Parganas, located just 17 kilometers from Mathurapur, where Union Home Minister Amit Shah conducted his 'Poriborton Yatra' earlier this week. This strategic move underscores the escalating political tensions in West Bengal as the state gears up for upcoming electoral battles.
Banerjee Mocks BJP's Rath Yatra as 'Chariots of Cheats'
During the launch of TMC's SC/ST outreach program, 'Tapashilir Sanglap,' in Kolkata, Banerjee delivered a sharp critique of the BJP's yatra. "The zamindars have initiated a Rath Yatra. We are all acquainted with Lord Jagannath's Rath, but witnessing one in March is unprecedented," he remarked. "Traditionally, we revere chariots of deities, but this is the first instance of a Rath Yatra orchestrated by deceivers. Elected representatives should be among the people, not atop chariots. As the opposition in Bengal, they parade on chariots; one can only imagine their mode of transport if they assume power."
Banerjee Takes Aim at BJP's Dietary and Policy Directives
Banerjee also referenced comments by Bihar Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha regarding restrictions on fish and meat sales. "The deputy CM of Bihar declared that meat and fish cannot be sold. I urge you to offer BJP leaders fish and meat as they traverse your areas in their chariots, treating them as honored guests," he stated. He further cautioned, "The BJP is not merely soliciting votes; they are attempting to dictate your diet and attire. Should they prevail, they may prohibit the sale of fish and meat. Recall that in 2024, PM Modi labeled fish-eaters as 'Mughals.' When their rath passes by, serve them tea and remind them of the withheld funds for Bengal. Ensure their chariots are well-oiled, as they will return to Gujarat and Maharashtra empty-handed."
Contrasting SC/ST Welfare: Bengal vs. BJP-Ruled States
Banerjee highlighted the electoral significance of SC/ST constituencies in Bengal, where 68 seats are reserved for SCs and 16 for STs. In the 2021 assembly polls, these seats saw intense competition, with Trinamool securing 45 and the BJP 39. He cited National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data to allege higher atrocities in BJP-governed states. "Since 2014, numerous BJP leaders have disparaged SC and ST communities. States leading in crimes against SCs are all under BJP rule: Uttar Pradesh with 15,130 cases, Rajasthan with 8,449, and Madhya Pradesh with 8,232," Banerjee asserted.
Regarding atrocities against STs, he noted, "Manipur tops the list with nearly 3,400 cases, followed by Madhya Pradesh with 2,858, and Rajasthan with 2,453—all states with double-engine governments."
Warnings on Uniform Civil Code and Reservation Policies
Banerjee expressed concerns over the BJP's push for a Uniform Civil Code. "If the BJP assumes office, SCs and STs risk losing constitutional rights established by BR Ambedkar. The BJP and RSS aim to abolish reservations. In Madhya Pradesh, a BJP leader urinated on an SC individual two years ago, and perpetrators of crimes against women from these communities are often garlanded by BJP members upon release," he claimed.
Showcasing Bengal's SC/ST Welfare Initiatives
In contrast, Banerjee praised Bengal's governance under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. "In 2021, we pledged Rs 1,000 monthly under Lakshmir Bhandar for SC/ST women. By March 2026, this has increased to Rs 1,700, providing each woman Rs 20,400 annually. Re-electing CM Mamata Banerjee ensures Rs 1,02,000 over five years, demonstrating our commitment to upliftment," he emphasized.
This rally and Banerjee's statements signal a robust counter-narrative to the BJP's campaign, focusing on welfare and social justice as key battlegrounds in Bengal's political landscape.
