“TMC will form govt on May 4 & Mamata will restore voting rights in 30 days”: Abhishek Banerjee

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee on Monday made a major electoral pitch amid the ongoing controversy over voter list revisions, promising to restore the voting rights of those allegedly excluded within 30 days if his party returns to power. Addressing a large rally in Karimpur in Nadia district, he said the issue would be treated as a top priority by the government.

Speaking at the Regulated Market Ground, Banerjee directly appealed to voters whose names have been removed from the electoral rolls, assuring them that their rights would be reinstated within a month of the formation of the government on May 4. He described this commitment as a “pledge” and urged people not to be confused, asking them to vote directly for Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

In a notable remark, Banerjee acknowledged that the promise is not part of the party’s official election manifesto, but emphasised that it reflects his personal commitment. He also targeted the Bharatiya Janata Party, alleging that issues like the National Register of Citizens are being used to create fear and exclude people, while positioning his party as a protector of citizens’ rights.

He further sharpened his attack by introducing a slogan aimed at the BJP, saying “BJP means detention, Trinamool means no tension.” Referring to the Matua community, he claimed that many who had supported the BJP earlier are now facing exclusion from the voter list. He also accused the central government of withholding funds meant for Bengal and urged voters to respond through the ballot.