West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee on Friday accused the BJP of inciting violence during Ram Navami celebrations in the state, claiming that the saffron camp only believes in bloodshed and violence to serve its political interests.
While addressing a public rally at Hariharpara in the minority-dominated Murshidabad district, Banerjee said the 2024 Lok Sabha polls are nothing less than a ‘second battle for the country’s independence,’ as the BJP’s return to power for a third consecutive term would endanger the existence of the constitution and democracy.
Banerjee contended that the Ram Navami violence in Murshidabad was ‘pre-planned’, squarely laying the blame on the BJP for orchestrating it ahead of Lok Sabha elections. Notably, an explosion near a procession in Murshidabad’s Shaktipur area on Wednesday resulted in injuries to a woman, according to the police.
Moreover, in the Rejinagar locality of the district, BJP alleged that a Ram Navami procession was pelted with stones.
“The BJP only believes in bloodshed and violence to serve its political purpose. The BJP is stoking violence in the state. Why did BJP leaders conduct processions with weapons and flout court orders? Who told them to conduct rallies with weapons? Who permitted them?” Banerjee said, as per PTI.
Highlighting the toll of violence, Banerjee revealed at least 19 people sustained injuries during the Ram Navami festivities. Furthermore, Banerjee accused the BJP of exploiting central forces to manipulate electoral outcomes, urging the Election Commission to intervene and address these concerns.
“The BJP is misusing central forces to loot votes. If the BJP returns to power for the third consecutive time, the constitution of India will cease to exist, democracy will be finished. This election is nothing less than a second war of independence,” she warned.