Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, addressing a programme at Santipur in Nadia, on Thursday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of resorting to tactics of imprisoning opposition leaders to secure victory in the upcoming general elections. This comes in the wake of her Jharkhand counterpart, Hemant Soren, being arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with an alleged land scam case.

Miss Banerjee asserted her resilience in the face of such pressure, declaring that even if she were incarcerated, she would emerge steadfast. “BJP is putting everyone in jail only to win the election,” she proclaimed. Miss Banerjee lamented the rejection of her party’s seatsharing proposal for the Lok Sabha elections by the Congress, which is an INDIA bloc partner. She accused the grand old party of aligning with the CPI-M, which will aid the BJP’s electoral prospects.

“We desired an alliance, but the Congress did not agree. They have joined forces with the CPI-M to assist the BJP in the elections,” she said, iterating her party’s decision to contest the elections independently. Miss Banerjee emphasised her commitment to the welfare of the people, promising to prioritise their interests over political alliances.

She likened the transient promises of the BJP to the seasonal arrival of cuckoos in spring, contrasting it with the TMC’s year-round dedication to serving the populace. She expressed confidence in forming the government in Delhi with the support of the people. “Trinamul Congress is strong enough to fight alone. If I am here and you all support me, I assure you that we will form the government in Delhi,” she said.

“They (BJP) come before the election like cuckoos in spring and propose to do many things for you, but after the election, they leave you,” she remarked, taking aim at the BJP’s track record. “We stay with you 365 days in a year, so whom would you choose in the election,” she asked, urging the electorate to stand by those who demonstrate unwavering commitment. The comments come amidst heightened political activity as parties gear up for the impending polls.

The TMC’s decision to go solo reflects its confidence in its organisational strength and popular support in the state. She reaffirmed her party’s determination to fight alone in Bengal, distancing herself from alliances that do not align with her vision, declaring: “We will win Delhi. Bengal will show the way.”

During the event, Miss Banerjee inaugurated numerous developmental projects worth Rs 753 crore, aimed at improving infrastructure and healthcare facilities in the state. She assured the gathered crowd of the tangible benefits these projects would bring to the populace, emphasising her administration’s commitment to inclusive growth.

Miss Banerjee also urged those affected by non-payment of funds under major schemes to join her sit-in demonstration in Kolkata starting from 2 February. She reiterated her solidarity with the people and urged them to stand together in demanding their rights.