Kiren Rijiju Complains to EC on West Bengal Elections, Alleges TMC Voter Intimidation

In a major political development during the ongoing elections in West Bengal, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has accused the ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) of allegedly hijacking the electoral process and intimidating voters.

Rijiju, along with leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), submitted a formal petition to the Election Commission of India demanding strict action to ensure free and fair polling.

BJP Alleges ‘Complete Control’ Over Electoral System

Speaking after submitting the petition, Rijiju said the situation in West Bengal was extremely serious.

He claimed that the Trinamool Congress had “completely hijacked the electoral process” and gained control over the democratic machinery through intimidation and threats.

According to Rijiju, the BJP delegation explained to the Election Commission how voters were allegedly being pressured during the elections.

Allegations Against Mamata Banerjee

Rijiju also alleged that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee herself had visited neighbourhoods warning voters against supporting the BJP.

He said, “We explained how the Chief Minister went door-to-door threatening voters with dire consequences and warning that anyone who voted for the BJP would not be spared.”

The BJP has claimed that such actions undermine the democratic process and create fear among voters.

Administrative Machinery ‘Used by TMC’: BJP

The Union Minister further alleged that the entire administrative setup in the state was being used to help the ruling party.

He said BJP leaders expressed concern that “from senior officials to the lowest-ranking employees, the administrative machinery has effectively become an extension of TMC cadres.”

According to the BJP, this situation could affect the credibility of the electoral process if corrective steps are not taken.

EC Assures Free and Fair Elections

Rijiju said the Election Commission responded positively to the party’s concerns.

He added that the poll body assured the delegation that necessary steps would be taken to ensure free and fair elections in the state.

“In the ongoing elections in West Bengal, the public is raising a strong voice of protest against the Trinamool Congress,” Rijiju said, adding that the alleged “coercive tactics” used in previous elections should not be repeated.

Political Tensions Rise

The allegations have further intensified the political battle in West Bengal, where the BJP and TMC remain locked in a fierce contest.