Kolkata (West Bengal): West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee on Thursday appeared at the Calcutta High Court wearing a black coat, resembling a lawyer’s attire, in connection with a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) related to post-election violence in the state.
She appeared before the bench of Chief Justice H.C. Sujoy Pal in a case concerning alleged violence following the 2021 assembly elections. Her appearance immediately triggered a sharp political debate in West Bengal, with the ruling TMC and opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) exchanging strong statements over the development.
The visit to the Calcutta High Court was described by TMC leaders as part of a legal and democratic fight on behalf of the people, while the BJP dismissed it as a “political drama” and an attempt to influence public perception.
BJP Leaders Attack Mamata Banerjee, Call Court Appearance Political Drama and Question Party’s Position
BJP leaders launched a series of attacks on Banerjee following her court appearance. BJP legislator Swapan Dasgupta alleged that the legal proceedings are aimed at uncovering the truth behind the post-poll violence of 2021, claiming that the current political environment suggests unease within the ruling party. Another BJP MLA, Lakshmikanta, accused Banerjee of staging political theatrics, claiming that her influence is declining among the public.
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BJP leader Ashok Dinda further stated that previous legal attempts by Banerjee had not yielded relief and warned that a deeper probe into the 2021 post-poll violence could implicate members of the TMC. He also claimed that there was no major post-poll violence in 2026 and dismissed related allegations as baseless.
AJUP Chief Highlights 2021 Post-Poll Violence, Claims Shift in West Bengal Political Situation
Meanwhile, Humayun Kabir, chief of the regional political group AJUP, also commented on the issue, recalling large-scale violence during the 2021 elections and alleging that the situation had changed in recent years with the rise of the BJP in the state.
On the other hand, TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh strongly defended Banerjee, describing her as a leader who has consistently fought for the people both on the streets and in courts. He said Banerjee, being a trained lawyer, has previously participated in legal battles including issues related to voter lists and election processes. He also emphasized that while the party continues to raise concerns about electoral procedures, the government should be given time to function, adding that opposition will continue against any policy deemed harmful.
The political confrontation has further intensified the atmosphere in West Bengal, with both sides continuing to exchange accusations over the 2021 post-poll violence case and its ongoing legal proceedings.