Elections – Raut Claims BJP Aware Mamata Banerjee Unbeatable in Bengal
Elections – The political atmosphere in West Bengal has intensified as leaders exchange sharp remarks over the upcoming assembly elections and recent administrative decisions.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Friday asserted that senior leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party are well aware of the difficulty of defeating Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in her home state. Speaking to ANI, Raut suggested that this understanding extends not only to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi but also to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Raut Questions Administrative Transfers in Bengal
Raut raised concerns over the recent transfer of several high-ranking officials in West Bengal, describing the move as an attempt to exert greater administrative control. He questioned why similar actions were not observed in other states such as Maharashtra or Assam, implying inconsistency in administrative practices.
According to him, shifting key positions like the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, and senior commissioners would not significantly influence electoral outcomes. He maintained that public support remains firmly behind Mamata Banerjee and predicted that she would secure victory in the upcoming polls.
Mamata Banerjee Criticises Election Commission
The remarks come amid strong objections from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who has accused the Election Commission of India and the central government of unfairly targeting her state. She described the transfer of more than 50 senior officials as deeply concerning and labelled it an “undeclared emergency.”
In a statement shared on social media platform X, Banerjee argued that the scale and timing of these transfers raise questions about political interference. She pointed out that the reshuffle includes top administrative and police officials such as the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, DGP, and several district-level officers.
Concerns Over Institutional Neutrality
Banerjee further stated that such actions risk undermining the neutrality of institutions that are expected to function independently. She expressed apprehension that these developments could reflect a broader trend of politicisation within constitutional bodies.
In addition to the transfers, the Chief Minister also highlighted delays in the release of supplementary electoral rolls. She claimed that these delays could create confusion among voters and potentially conflict with directions issued by the Supreme Court, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the election process.
Election Schedule and Key Dates
The West Bengal Assembly elections are scheduled to take place in two phases in April 2026. The first phase, covering 152 constituencies, will be held on April 23. The notification for this phase is set to be issued on March 30, with nominations closing on April 6 and scrutiny taking place the following day. Candidates will have until April 9 to withdraw their nominations.
The second phase will be conducted on April 29 across 142 constituencies. The notification for this phase will be issued on April 2, with the last date for filing nominations on April 9. Scrutiny will occur on April 10, and withdrawals will be allowed until April 13.
Counting of votes for both phases is scheduled for May 4, when the final results will determine the political direction of the state.
Intensifying Political Narrative
As the election dates approach, political exchanges between parties are becoming sharper. While opposition leaders question administrative actions and raise concerns about fairness, the ruling establishment continues to defend institutional decisions.
The coming weeks are expected to witness heightened campaigning and continued scrutiny of election-related developments, as stakeholders focus on ensuring a transparent and credible electoral process in West Bengal.