Mamata steps out to monitor polling activities for first time in 15 years, says 'BJP is killing democracy'

For the first time in 15 years, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stepped out of her residence early in the morning on polling day to personally monitor booth-level activities in Bhabanipur. The unusual move came amid the high-stakes second phase of voting, underlining the sensitivity of the constituency and the importance of direct ground-level supervision during polling.

Mamata Banerjee, who is also contesting from Bhabanipur, visited several polling booths during the morning and later took position at a designated booth area in Chakraberia. Shortly after her arrival, Suvendu Adhikari, the BJP candidate from the same constituency and Leader of the Opposition, reached the location and inspected the area from nearly 50 metres away, leading to a moment of heightened political tension.

Speaking to the media, Mamata Banerjee launched a sharp attack on the BJP and alleged misconduct by central forces. She claimed that Trinamool workers were attacked during the night and questioned the conduct of the election process, calling it an assault on democracy. She further asserted that her party workers were determined to remain on the ground despite pressure and intimidation.