Politics – BJP Leaders’ Portraits Replace Mamata Banerjee’s Image at AMC Office
Politics – Following the change in power in West Bengal, political tensions surfaced in Asansol and Falta as fresh controversies emerged after the Assembly election results.
A political confrontation unfolded on Tuesday at the Asansol Municipal Corporation (AMC) after BJP workers entered the chamber of Mayor Bidhan Upadhyay and removed portraits of former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The portraits were replaced with photographs of President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and newly appointed West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.
The development came days after the Bharatiya Janata Party secured a landmark victory in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, ending the Trinamool Congress’ 15-year tenure in the state. The incident quickly drew attention across the political spectrum, highlighting the growing friction between local leaders and party workers after the shift in power.
Portraits Replaced Inside Mayor’s Chamber
According to sources present at the municipal office, the portraits of the newly installed leaders were carefully mounted on the main wall of the chamber. Meanwhile, a framed photograph of Mamata Banerjee was reportedly found lying on a nearby table with broken glass scattered around it.
The visual sparked criticism from several quarters, with opposition supporters accusing BJP workers of disrespecting democratic traditions and public institutions. However, BJP supporters described the move as symbolic of the state’s new political direction after the recent election outcome.
AMC Chairman Reacts to Incident
Amarnath Chatterjee, Chairman of the Asansol Municipal Corporation, expressed disapproval over the incident while speaking to reporters. He stated that elected representatives are expected to maintain decorum and avoid actions that may escalate tensions.
Chatterjee said the administration is currently functioning under the new government’s leadership and remains focused on public service. He also remarked that the people of West Bengal would eventually judge the political developments taking place across the state.
His comments reflected concern over the changing political atmosphere following the BJP’s rise to power in the state after a prolonged opposition phase.
Suvendu Adhikari Targets TMC During Falta Campaign
Elsewhere in the state, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari intensified his political attacks against the Trinamool Congress during a roadshow in Falta ahead of the upcoming repoll.
Adhikari mocked TMC candidate Jahangir Khan after Khan announced his withdrawal from the election race. Referring to Khan’s previously defiant political posture, the Chief Minister used the nickname “Pushpa” in a sarcastic remark and claimed the candidate had little chance of securing victory in the repoll.
The BJP leader also targeted Khan’s closeness to senior TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee and urged voters to participate in large numbers. During his address, Adhikari assured residents that his government would prioritize development and welfare initiatives in the region.
Jahangir Khan Withdraws From Repoll Contest
Jahangir Khan officially declared his withdrawal from the Falta Assembly constituency repoll during a press conference on Tuesday. Explaining his decision, Khan said he wanted peace and stability to prevail in the constituency.
He stated that his long-term vision was to see Falta emerge as a developed and prosperous region. Khan also referred to a special development package announced by the state government for the constituency and said that public welfare should remain the priority.
The repoll in the 144-Falta Assembly constituency is scheduled for May 21 after allegations of electoral irregularities surfaced during polling held on April 29.
Election Commission Orders Fresh Polling
The Election Commission of India ordered fresh polling across all 285 polling stations in Falta after reports of serious electoral violations and disruptions during voting. In addition, repolling has also been conducted in 15 booths located in Paschim Magrahat and Diamond Harbour assembly constituencies.
The Election Commission stated that the decision was taken after reviewing reports of major electoral misconduct and alleged attempts to undermine the democratic process in several polling booths.
Officials confirmed that the counting of votes for the repoll process will take place on May 24.