“Put me in jail or shoot me”: Mamata says attempts to stop her will only strengthen support for TMC

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee made a powerful and emotionally charged speech in Durgapur, launching a direct attack on the Election Commission and the Bharatiya Janata Party. Addressing a large election rally, she intensified her criticism of central institutions and opposition parties, turning the gathering into a high-voltage political event.

In one of the most striking moments of her address, Mamata Banerjee declared that she was not afraid of threats or pressure, stating that if anyone wished to stop her, they could “send her to jail or shoot her.” She added that such actions would only strengthen her connection with the public and further boost support for the Trinamool Congress.

The Chief Minister also accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of misleading the public with false promises, particularly targeting claims related to employment generation and economic policies. She questioned the implementation of promises such as two crore jobs per year and criticised the central leadership for what she described as repeated failures on key governance issues.

Raising concerns over electoral integrity, Mamata Banerjee alleged that voter lists were being manipulated in several constituencies. She claimed that names of thousands of voters were being removed in a coordinated manner and accused political opponents of being complicit in weakening democratic processes. She termed the situation a “murder of democracy” and warned party workers to remain alert during elections.

She also addressed issues related to women’s safety, youth employment, and industrial development in the state. The Chief Minister criticised conditions in other states while defending her government’s policies, and stated that local residents would be prioritised in employment opportunities. She further warned against corruption within her own party and reiterated that strict action would be taken against anyone found violating party discipline.