The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has launched a sharp attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC), seizing on Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury's recent allegations of vote rigging in West Bengal. The BJP claims that Chowdhury's accusations have "exposed" the TMC's methods, suggesting a tacit admission of guilt within the ruling party.
Chowdhury, a prominent Congress leader in West Bengal, has alleged that the TMC government is creating fake voters to rig elections. He specifically claimed the existence of approximately 35 to 40 lakh fake voters in the state, facilitated by the TMC and the state government. Chowdhury warned of serious trouble if these fraudulent voters are not identified and removed before the elections. He asserted that the TMC seeks to maximize the number of fake voter ID cards to manipulate upcoming elections for political advantage.
The BJP has amplified these claims, stating that Chowdhury's remarks validate their long-standing allegations against the TMC. They argue that the Congress leader's statements reveal the TMC's reliance on unfair electoral practices to maintain its power in West Bengal. BJP leaders have asserted that Chowdhury's accusations confirm the TMC's involvement in defending corrupt individuals and groups.
In response to Chowdhury's allegations, West Bengal's Chief Electoral Officer refuted claims of manipulation in the electoral process. The officer stated that the electoral roll updates are conducted according to established procedures with the active participation of Booth Level Agents appointed by political parties. They further added that any specific claims or objections should be raised before the concerned officials.
This is not the first time that Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury has been in the news concerning voting controversies. Earlier, a video clip surfaced where Chowdhury appeared to be urging people to vote for the BJP instead of the TMC. The TMC quickly accused Chowdhury of acting as the "B-team" of the BJP. However, the West Bengal Police later reported that the video was manipulated. The Congress party supported this claim, stating that the clip was doctored and that misinformation was being spread.
The current political climate in West Bengal is charged, with accusations and counter-accusations flying between the major parties. Chowdhury has also met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss attacks on Bengali-speaking people in BJP-ruled states. He has urged the Prime Minister to sensitize all state governments against discrimination, violence, and persecution of migrant laborers. These events highlight the complex and often contentious relationship between the Congress, TMC, and BJP in the state.
