TMC Accuses BJP and AJUP Leaders of Model Code of Conduct Violations in Bengal
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has escalated its electoral battle by filing a series of formal complaints with the Bengal Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), targeting senior leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the All India United Party (AJUP). The party alleges multiple breaches of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), accusing opponents of using government resources, distributing cash, and engaging in intimidation tactics to sway voters during the ongoing election period.
Allegations Against Union Minister and BJP Leaders
In a detailed complaint, TMC has accused Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman of misusing government machinery, including a helicopter, during her visits to Serampore and Kalna on April 15. The party claims she distributed "weaver cards" to voters and explicitly linked government benefits to support for the BJP, actions that TMC argues constitute a clear violation of MCC rules against using official resources for campaigning.
Further complaints have been lodged against Suvendu Adhikari, the state leader of the opposition, and former Union Minister Smriti Irani. TMC alleges that both leaders distributed "Matrishakti Bharosa" and "Yuvashakti Bharosa" cards, which promise monthly payments of Rs 3,000 to cardholders. The party contends that such distributions are attempts to implement manifesto promises prematurely, effectively bribing the electorate during the election phase.
Cash Distribution and Additional Violations
TMC has also leveled specific allegations of cash distribution against BJP candidates. Arjun Singh in Noapara and Rajesh Mahato in Gopiballavpur are accused of handing out Rs 3,000 each under the "Annapurna Bhandar" scheme. In Bhatpara, Pawan Singh, the son of candidate Arjun Singh, was allegedly involved in distributing money alongside copies of the Gita, blending religious symbolism with electoral inducements.
Additional complaints highlight other BJP candidates accused of similar misconduct. Jitendra Tiwari is said to have donated Rs 25,000 to a club in Pandaveswar, while candidates in Sonarpur South, English Bazar, and Baghda distributed "Nari Shakti Bharosa" cards. TMC argues that these actions collectively represent a systematic effort to influence voters through financial incentives, violating MCC provisions against bribery and corrupt practices.
Complaint Against AJUP Leader for Intimidation
Beyond the BJP, TMC has filed a complaint against Humayun Kabir of the AJUP, focusing on a social media video. The party alleges that Kabir made remarks targeting TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee and party functionary Mainul Haque Rana, including threats to kill and bury opponents. TMC maintains that such statements constitute criminal intimidation and breach MCC rules that prohibit attacks on personal lives and the use of unverified allegations in campaigns.
TMC's Stance on Electoral Integrity
In its submissions, TMC has emphasized that the alleged actions by BJP and AJUP leaders are not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern to undermine electoral fairness. The party asserts that distributing cards promising monetary benefits and making threatening statements are deliberate attempts to manipulate voter behavior, contravening the spirit of the Model Code of Conduct. TMC has called for strict action from the election authorities to ensure a level playing field and uphold democratic principles during the Bengal elections.
