Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Agnimitra Paul expressed strong disapproval after Trinamool Congress (TMC) spokesperson Kunal Ghosh drew a parallel between West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and freedom fighter Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.
Paul condemned the statement, accusing Ghosh of making an “appalling” comparison. “We are not only shocked but aghast. How can a person who calls himself a journalist make such a statement?” she said while speaking to media.
Sharpening Criticism
Paul took aim at Ghosh’s remarks, claiming they misrepresented Netaji’s famous quote, “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom.”
“Netaji inspired a nation to fight for its freedom. In contrast, Mamata Banerjee has allegedly given freedom for lawlessness—freedom to loot public money, rape, destroy Bengal, and perpetuate corruption,” Paul asserted.
Allegations of Corruption and Infiltration
The BJP leader further accused TMC leaders and the state police of abetting illegal activities, including facilitating infiltrators and forging documents.
“In Assam and Tripura, infiltrators and terrorists are apprehended by the BSF and not released. But in West Bengal, infiltrators are let go, and fake documents are created by TMC leaders,” she claimed.
Paul also alleged that the West Bengal Police were complicit in these actions under the supervision of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who holds the Home Ministry portfolio.
“In the fake passport cases, the police verify the documents. Who oversees the police? It is Mamata Banerjee. This highlights the systemic issues in Bengal under her leadership,” she stated.
TMC-BJP War of Words Intensifies
The remarks come amidst escalating tensions between the BJP and TMC in West Bengal, with both parties regularly trading accusations. While the TMC continues to assert its governance achievements, the BJP has been critical of the state’s law and order situation and alleged corruption within the ruling party.
Conclusion
Paul’s sharp rebuttal underscores the deep political divide in West Bengal. As the BJP and TMC prepare for upcoming elections, such exchanges highlight the charged political environment in the state.