Mamata Banerjee Slams BJP Over Alleged Assault on Abhishek Banerjee

Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo and former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched a sharp attack on the BJP, accusing it of selective politics over issues of violence while defending her party against allegations of corruption and internal discord.

Addressing party workers in Kolkata, Banerjee questioned the political response to the recent rape case in Behala, alleging that some incidents receive disproportionate attention while others are ignored.

"A rape has occurred in Behala. Why is no one protesting about it?" she asked, calling for equal concern and accountability in cases involving crimes against women.

The TMC chief also rejected allegations that her party had financially benefited from wrongdoing. She acknowledged that certain individuals may have taken advantage of situations for personal gain but asserted that such individuals no longer have a place within the party.

"TMC has not taken money from anyone. There may be some people who take advantage of situations, but those who thought such people were their assets have left, and we are better off without them," Banerjee said.

Emphasising the role of grassroots workers, she stated that the strength of the Trinamool Congress lies in its cadre base rather than individual leaders.

"We will rebuild the party anew. TMC is not for its leaders; it is for its workers. As long as the workers remain with us, that is what matters," she said.

Banerjee also strongly criticised the BJP over the alleged assault on TMC leader and Member of Parliament Abhishek Banerjee, describing the incident as shocking and undemocratic.

"The way you assaulted the MP of the second-largest opposition party is shocking," she said, alleging that medical treatment was delayed despite doctors being called.

Questioning the handling of the situation, Banerjee accused authorities of displaying authoritarian behaviour and raised concerns regarding the role of private healthcare institutions in the controversy.

She further highlighted her government's support for healthcare infrastructure, noting that the Kolkata Municipal Corporation and the state administration had extended assistance to medical institutions whenever required.

The remarks come amid escalating political tensions between the ruling TMC and the BJP in West Bengal following recent electoral developments and a series of political confrontations.