Modi calls Malda gherao “maha jungle raj”, says judicial officers not safe under TMC rule

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday sharply criticised the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) over the recent gherao of judicial officers in Malda, calling the incident a reflection of “maha jungle raj” and raising serious concerns over law and order in West Bengal. Addressing a public rally in Cooch Behar ahead of the Assembly elections, he said the episode had shocked law-abiding citizens and questioned the state government’s ability to ensure safety.

Referring to the incident in which seven judicial officers were allegedly held hostage for hours during a protest, Modi said the situation indicated a breakdown of constitutional order. According to reports, the officers were engaged in official duties related to electoral processes when they were surrounded by a mob, triggering widespread concern over institutional security.

The Prime Minister further alleged that the state government does not respect constitutional institutions and claimed that such incidents reflect a deeper governance failure. He stated that when judicial officers are not safe, it raises serious doubts about the safety of ordinary citizens. According to reports, multiple arrests have been made in connection with the incident, and central agencies have initiated an investigation.

Expanding his political attack, Modi accused the TMC government of undermining law and order and engaging in appeasement politics. He also reiterated that states performing well in population control would not be disadvantaged in future delimitation exercises, while urging political parties to support women’s reservation.

The remarks come amid an intensifying political battle in West Bengal ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections, with both ruling and opposition parties sharpening their campaigns and using recent incidents to mobilise voter sentiment.