West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s recently released book "Banglar Nirbachan o Amra" (Bengal's Elections and Us) provides an in-depth reflection on her experiences during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. In the book, Mamata outlines the challenges she faced, particularly the widespread misinformation and false narratives promoted by BJP leaders, including Suvendu Adhikari. Mamata specifically addresses the Sandeshkhali issue, claiming that BJP spread fabricated allegations of sexual assault to manipulate voters. She states that these accusations were part of a larger effort by the opposition to damage her reputation and undermine her electoral chances.
Mamata firmly rejects the allegations, labeling them entirely concocted. According to the Chief Minister, the BJP used these fabricated claims to distort public perception and influence the outcome of the election. Despite the widespread disinformation, Mamata claims that her victory was secured by the trust and support of the people of Bengal, who recognized her government's development work, particularly initiatives such as Kanyashree, Lakshmir Bhandar, and other welfare schemes aimed at empowering women and improving the economic conditions of marginalized communities. She stresses that her government’s focus on social welfare and economic growth resonated with the electorate, leading to a decisive win.
In her account, Mamata also highlights concerns about voter manipulation, asserting that the BJP's success in the state was not due to genuine public support but rather through the manipulation of voter lists and an increase in voter numbers. Mamata claims that there were allegations of inflated voter rolls, which, if proven true, would suggest that the BJP’s gains were the result of irregularities in the electoral process. She contends that these tactics were used to secure seats through unfair means rather than through a legitimate reflection of the people's will.
Furthermore, Mamata emphasizes the ongoing political rivalry with opposition parties, including BJP and CPM, accusing them of obstructing job creation and other developmental initiatives in Bengal. She notes that the opposition’s actions, such as blocking job schemes and undermining the state’s educational infrastructure, hindered the state’s progress. Mamata stresses that her government has worked diligently to create job opportunities, enhance educational facilities, and improve healthcare and infrastructure, all of which she believes contributed to her electoral success.
The book also addresses Mamata's broader concerns about the relationship between Bengal and the central government. She criticizes the central government for what she perceives as a lack of support for the state, particularly in areas related to employment, education, and financial aid. According to Mamata, the central government’s reluctance to provide Bengal with the necessary resources has hampered the state’s development. Throughout the book, Mamata reiterates her commitment to the development of Bengal and emphasizes that her government’s focus on welfare, job creation, and infrastructure improvement will continue to drive the state forward, regardless of the opposition's efforts to undermine her administration.