Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], February 2: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized the BJP’s proposal of ‘One nation, One election,’ dubbing it as a pathway to dictatorship and the erosion of India’s diversity. The Trinamool Congress chairperson expressed her concerns during a public event in West Bengal, where she accused the BJP of changing history, geography, and the syllabus, as well as silencing its opponents by putting them in jail.
CM Banerjee further accused the BJP of causing damage to everyone in order to secure votes. However, she warned that their actions would ultimately backfire once they lose power. Emphasizing on the issues that Congress faces ahead of the general elections, she shared her doubts about Congress’ ability to secure even 40 seats. Banerjee also expressed her disappointment with the Congress party for not informing her about their Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra program in West Bengal.
Regarding the ‘One Nation, One Election’ proposal, the High-Level Committee (HLC) chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind held a consultation round with a delegation from the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). The industry representatives presented their views on the proposal’s impact and subsequently submitted a formal memorandum to the committee. An interaction was also conducted with Dr. Santosh Kumar Suman, Minister of the Government of Bihar, who provided the perspective of his party on the simultaneous elections.
CM Banerjee criticized the BJP for focusing extensively on certain issues while remaining silent on matters such as violence in Manipur and the mistreatment of women. She questioned the utilization of funds collected during the COVID-19 crisis under the PM Cares program and accused the BJP of conducting defense deals abroad. Additionally, she highlighted the expulsion of Mahua Moitra, who had questioned the BJP’s actions.
The ‘One Nation, One Election’ initiative was constituted through a notification dated September 20, 2023. As CM Banerjee continues to voice her concerns, she plans to attend a meeting on the proposal in Delhi on February 6th. She also challenged the Congress party to defeat the BJP in Uttar Pradesh, Banaras, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh if they dare.
CM Banerjee’s strong standpoint against the ‘One Nation, One Election’ proposal showcases her commitment to maintaining India’s diversity and democratic principles. Her criticisms of the BJP’s tactics and challenges to the Congress party indicate her determination to leave no stone unturned ahead of the upcoming general elections. Only time will tell how these political dynamics unfold in West Bengal and beyond.
