The political climate in West Bengal is heating up once again, with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) engaging in fierce confrontations within the state's legislative assembly. A recent point of contention revolves around a privilege motion moved against the Leader of Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, by senior TMC MLAs. This action underscores the deep-seated animosity and the constant tug-of-war between the ruling party and the opposition in the state.
The privilege motion stems from accusations that Adhikari made "defamatory and untrue" statements about Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee outside the assembly. Specifically, TMC leaders allege that Adhikari told the media that Banerjee praised Pakistan during her speech in the assembly. They claim his words were so eloquent that they surpassed even the praises of Pakistan's own Prime Minister, Shahbaz Sharif. TMC leaders have vehemently denied these claims, asserting that Banerjee never uttered a word in favor of Pakistan.
Speaker Biman Banerjee has confirmed receiving the motion and stated that he will thoroughly review it before deciding whether to admit it to the state assembly's privilege committee. He also holds the authority to reject the motion if he finds it unsubstantiated.
The incident that triggered Adhikari's comments occurred during an assembly session where Banerjee criticized the Union government regarding the Pahalgam incident and demanded the resignation of the BJP-led government for allegedly failing to ensure national security. She also lamented India's missed opportunity to reclaim Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) during a past military conflict and questioned the BJP-led Centre's diplomatic strategy against Pakistan on the global stage.
The opposition bench, led by Adhikari, vocally countered Banerjee's remarks, demanding the inclusion of 'Operation Sindoor' in a resolution praising military strikes on terror hubs across the western border. This term was notably absent from the resolution. Adhikari later told reporters that Banerjee praised Pakistan.
This isn't the first time Adhikari has faced a privilege motion. In February 2025, a privilege motion was moved against him for allegedly describing the state government as "communal" and a "government of terrorists." This motion followed his suspension from the Assembly for unruly behavior. In 2024, the TMC also moved a privilege motion against Adhikari for allegedly dishonoring the National Anthem and the state song. Similarly, in 2023, a privilege motion was moved against him for "threatening" a TMC minister in the Assembly.
These repeated attempts to censure Adhikari through privilege motions highlight the intense political rivalry and the strategies employed by both sides to gain an upper hand. The TMC aims to silence or at least restrain Adhikari's attacks, while the BJP seeks to portray the TMC as অথoritarian and suppressive of dissent.
Looking ahead, both the TMC and BJP are gearing up for the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections. The TMC is trying to consolidate its position, particularly among Muslim voters, while the BJP is attempting to consolidate the Hindu vote. Recent political developments, such as leaders switching parties, indicate a reshuffling of alliances and a renewed focus on key regions like North Bengal. The state is witnessing increased political activity as both parties try to strengthen their organizations at the grassroots level. The upcoming elections are crucial for both parties, and the political climate is expected to remain charged as they compete for dominance in the state.
