Mamata Banerjee Raises Alarm Over "Outsider Influx" in Bhowanipore Constituency Ahead of Bengal Elections

Kolkata:

On Tuesday, Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed concerns that her South Kolkata constituency, Bhowanipore, is experiencing an influx of "outsiders" as part of a deliberate strategy.

With state elections scheduled for early next year, the Chief Minister voiced her apprehensions during the Bijoya Sammilani program, a post-Bijoya Dashami social gathering held in her constituency.

"I've observed that in numerous locations, poor people's settlements are being demolished to make way for large houses. I cannot support this practice. Our voters are being displaced. Bhowanipore is systematically being populated with outsiders. Those who live and work in Bengal are our people. However, those who suddenly arrive from elsewhere, purchase land and houses with money, and then displace local residents are the true outsiders," stated the Chief Minister.

Banerjee also urged citizens to remain vigilant about the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), which involves re-verification of electoral rolls.

"High-rise buildings are being constructed after displacing impoverished individuals. I oppose such practices. These developments are being orchestrated by outsiders. Our voters are being forced out. Those who reside and work in Bengal belong here. It is our humanitarian obligation to assist the disadvantaged," she emphasized.

Addressing party members, the Chief Minister said, "Remember that if preparations for a new voter list commence, everyone will need to restart the entire process. In that scenario, the Booth Level Agents (BLAs) will bear significant responsibility."

The BJP promptly criticized the Chief Minister's "outsider" remarks, suggesting that Trinamool is experiencing "fear and worry."

"Trinamool Congress is fearful and uncertain about the Chief Minister's victory in Bhowanipore," remarked BJP leader Rahul Sinha.

At the same event, Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim encouraged party workers to secure Mamata Banerjee's electoral success.

"We will ensure Mamata Banerjee wins from Bhowanipore with a 1-lakh margin," Hakim declared.