Trinamool Leader Abhishek Banerjee Delivers Scathing Rebuttal to BJP in Mathurapur Rally
In a strategic move, Trinamool Congress national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Sunday chose Mathurapur in South 24 Parganas, the very location where Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently launched the BJP's Poriborton Yatra, to launch a comprehensive and data-driven rebuttal against the saffron party's assertions regarding Bengal's debt, women's safety, and law and order. Citing official central government statistics, Banerjee addressed a spirited rally, challenging Shah to a public debate and vowing to demonstrate the Trinamool Congress's superior governance record.
Banerjee Accuses BJP of Undermining Democratic Rights
During his speech, Banerjee made bold claims about the BJP's tactics, stating, "In conducting SIR, BJP dug its own grave." He elaborated that the BJP's actions were aimed at silencing opposition, alleging that the party had placed 60 lakh people under adjudication to prevent them from voting, fearing they might support Trinamool. "This is to democratically take revenge on those who have humiliated Bengalis and to teach them a lesson," he declared, emphasizing his commitment to defending Bengali pride and democratic principles.
Critique of BJP's Poriborton Yatra and Governance Claims
Banerjee mocked the BJP's Poriborton Yatra, suggesting it lacked substantial ground support. "Such is the condition of the yatra that they have had their 'visarjan'. They came to Bengal to carry out SIR, but it seems the real SIR took place in their rallies. SIR happened in BJP. In trying to take away the rights of the people of Bengal, they dug their own grave," he asserted. He further accused Shah of being uninformed about Bengal's budget, highlighting that the state had already announced implementations related to the 7th Pay Commission, contrary to BJP's claims.
Data-Driven Attack on Women's Safety and Crime in BJP States
Turning to the issue of women's safety, Banerjee utilized September 2025 National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, prepared by the Union Home Ministry, to criticize BJP-governed states. He presented alarming statistics:
- Crimes against women: Uttar Pradesh ranks first with 66,381 cases, followed by Maharashtra at 47,101, and Rajasthan at 45,450.
- Rape cases: Rajasthan leads with the highest number, followed by Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
- Murders: Uttar Pradesh records the maximum, with Bihar and Maharashtra following.
- Riots: Maharashtra tops the list, with Manipur and Bihar in second and third places, respectively.
Banerjee sarcastically urged Amit Shah to use Delhi Police or CRPF to find a more truthful speechwriter, stating, "Everything was lies. We can lend you one."
Debt Comparison: Bengal vs. National Figures Under Modi Government
Addressing Shah's jibe about Bengal's debt, Banerjee presented a stark comparison. He alleged that Shah claimed Bengal has a debt of Rs 8 lakh crore, implying a per-child debt of Rs 77,000. In response, Banerjee countered with national data, noting that before the Modi government took office, India's loan stood at Rs 56 lakh crore. After 12 years, this amount has surged to Rs 197 lakh crore. "Under the Modi govt, if a child is born in India, he will have a debt of Rs 1 lakh 44 thousand. If you think my data is wrong, you can file a case against me," he challenged, emphasizing the broader national debt issue under BJP rule.
Banerjee's rally in Mathurapur served as a powerful platform to not only refute BJP's allegations but also to rally support by highlighting Trinamool's achievements and questioning the central government's performance. His call for a public debate underscores the escalating political tensions in Bengal as parties gear up for future electoral battles.
