Kolkata: Mamata Banerjee on Saturday said she will file a legal case against Union Home Minister Amit Shah over what she described as “violent remarks,” escalating political tensions ahead of the next phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections.
Mamata announces legal action
Addressing a public gathering in Hooghly, Mamata Banerjee criticised Shah’s comments and questioned the appropriateness of such language from a Union Home Minister.
“We are going to file a legal case against Amit Shah for his violent remarks. As Home Minister, he cannot make such comments,” she said.
Row over ‘hang upside down’ remark
The controversy stems from a statement made by Amit Shah during a rally in Arambagh, where he warned that action would be taken against those allegedly involved in disturbing polling.
His remark about “hanging people upside down” drew sharp criticism from the Trinamool Congress leadership, with Banerjee calling it unacceptable and indicative of a “forceful approach”.
She asserted that such rhetoric would not resonate with voters in West Bengal.
Political heat rises ahead of Phase II
The development comes just days before the second phase of polling scheduled for April 29. Campaigning has intensified across the state, with sharp exchanges between the Trinamool Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party.
Banerjee accused the BJP of attempting to intimidate voters and party workers, while positioning her party as a defender of democratic values.
High voter turnout in Phase I
The first phase of polling, held earlier this week, recorded a high turnout of over 91 per cent, according to the Election Commission of India.
The strong participation has added to the intensity of campaigning, with both major parties expressing confidence ahead of the remaining phases.
Shah praises polling process
Meanwhile, Amit Shah congratulated voters and security agencies for ensuring a largely peaceful polling process in the first phase.
He also lauded the role of the Election Commission and central forces in conducting the elections smoothly.
Conclusion
The war of words between Mamata Banerjee and Amit Shah highlights the high-stakes nature of the West Bengal elections. With legal action now being planned, the political battle is set to intensify further in the run-up to the next phase of voting.