Criticizing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for its pledge to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in West Bengal if they win the upcoming elections, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee asserted on Saturday that the party aims to impose its rules on citizens and limit their freedom to practice their religion.
Speaking at a rally in Keshiary, located in the Paschim Medinipur district, Banerjee remarked, “The BJP’s manifesto is filled with falsehoods. The adoption of the UCC will strip individuals of their rights to follow their religious beliefs and traditions. It threatens to erase cultural diversity, as they seek to create a uniform society. We will stand against this initiative, which poses a significant risk.”
Furthermore, she criticized the BJP regarding the Delimitation Bill recently approved by the Union Cabinet for presentation in Parliament. “The introduction of the Delimitation Bill is being rushed. Why now, just before elections? Their intention is to fragment Bengal. Following this, they plan to introduce the National Register of Citizens (NRC). If you wish to avoid detention camps and continue receiving benefits from our social welfare programs like Khadya Sathi, Laxmir Bhandar, and Kanyashree, make sure to vote for the Trinamool Congress (TMC). See me as the candidate across all 294 constituencies,” she urged.
Banerjee also claimed that BJP-ruled states impose restrictions on dietary choices, stating, “Who has given them the authority to dictate what we can eat?”
Describing the BJP’s SIR initiative as a “scam” aimed at securing electoral victory, she highlighted issues with voter registration, noting, “Voter names are being deleted indiscriminately. Out of 90 lakh voters removed, 60 lakh are Hindus and 30 lakh are Muslims. People are still waiting in long queues. Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes are suffering in every BJP-ruled state, and individuals are being attacked for speaking Bengali.”
She warned that BJP representatives may attempt to gather bank account information from voters, saying, “They might approach you disguised as my representatives. Do not share your banking details; it could lead to financial loss. If they suggest opening a new account, be cautious. They are likely to transfer illicit money and then target you with agencies like the ED and CBI.”
Additionally, Banerjee urged TMC members to be vigilant during the electoral process. “Ensure that voting does not occur on faulty electronic voting machines (EVMs). Wait for replacements and verify that the EVMs are functioning properly. Stay at the counting station until every vote is tallied, as they may deliberately slow down the counting process,” she advised.
“I have fulfilled all my promises. Currently, women from the general category receive Rs 1,500, while those from SC and ST communities get Rs 1,700 under Laxmir Bhandar. This benefit will be available to you throughout your lifetime. Remember, demonetization has taken away your savings,” she concluded.
