Security – Mahua Moitra Targets Centre Over Mamata Banerjee’s Protection Changes
Security – Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has become the center of a fresh political controversy after Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra accused the BJP-led Central Government of reducing her security cover and placing her safety at risk. The allegation emerged after reports claimed that several long-serving Personal Security Officers (PSOs) assigned to Banerjee’s Kolkata residence had been removed from duty.
Moitra Raises Concerns Over Security Arrangements
Reacting to the reported changes, Mahua Moitra strongly criticized the Centre through a post on social media platform X. She argued that the decision reflected political bias and questioned the treatment being given to a leader who has held significant public offices for decades.
According to Moitra, Banerjee’s status as a three-time Chief Minister and seven-time Member of Parliament warrants adequate protection. She claimed that reducing the security presence around the veteran leader could expose her to unnecessary risks.
The TMC parliamentarian also drew a comparison between Banerjee’s security arrangements and those provided to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat. In her remarks, she alleged that there was a visible difference in the level of protection offered to the two figures, raising concerns about fairness in security allocation.
Mamata Banerjee Leads Hawkers’ Demonstration
Amid the ongoing debate over security, Mamata Banerjee took part in a protest march in Kolkata’s Dharmatala area on Wednesday. The demonstration focused on alleged eviction drives targeting hawkers and small vendors in different parts of West Bengal.
The march witnessed the participation of several TMC leaders, party workers, and a large number of supporters. Protesters carried banners and raised slogans while expressing opposition to actions they described as harmful to the livelihoods of street vendors.
TMC Defends Livelihood Rights
In a statement shared on social media, the Trinamool Congress said the protest was aimed at protecting the interests of hawkers who, according to the party, have been affected by recent eviction operations.
The party emphasized that safeguarding the dignity and economic security of ordinary people remains one of its primary commitments. TMC leaders maintained that street vendors form an important part of the state’s economy and deserve fair treatment.
The statement further criticized the BJP, accusing it of pursuing policies that adversely impact vulnerable sections of society. Party representatives argued that political power should not come at the cost of people’s livelihoods and social security.
Jadavpur Eviction Drive Sparks Tensions
The controversy surrounding hawker evictions intensified after a major clearance operation carried out on June 7 along Jadavpur Station Road. During the drive, authorities used bulldozers to remove temporary structures, roadside stalls, and makeshift shops that were allegedly occupying public spaces.
The action drew strong reactions from local residents, vendors, and activists. Large crowds gathered at the site and voiced opposition to the demolition exercise. Protesters questioned the manner in which the operation was conducted and demanded alternative arrangements for affected hawkers.
Protests Escalate Amid Police Action
As tensions increased during the demonstrations, clashes reportedly broke out between protesters and law enforcement personnel. Police intervened to control the situation, and reports indicated that a lathi-charge was carried out after unrest intensified.
Several protesters, including students and activists, were affected during the police action. The incident has since fueled political debate, with opposition voices criticizing the handling of the protests while authorities continue to defend the enforcement measures.
The developments have added another layer to the political confrontation in West Bengal, where issues related to public safety, livelihoods, and governance remain key points of discussion.