West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) following the alleged siege of judicial officers in Malda, accusing Union Home Minister Amit Shah of orchestrating the incident and demanding his resignation.

The Chief Minister was referring to Wednesday night’s incident in Malda district, where seven judicial officers engaged in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process were allegedly held under siege for several hours. Reports also suggested that bricks and stones were hurled at their vehicles during their rescue.

Addressing a public meeting in Murshidabad, Mamata termed the episode serious and warned that such incidents undermine democratic processes.

Mamata alleged a larger conspiracy behind the incident, claiming the BJP was attempting to destabilise West Bengal. She also targeted Asaduddin Owaisi, leader of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), accusing him of playing a role in inciting unrest.

“External elements have been brought in to provoke people and create disturbances,” she claimed, adding that such moves were aimed at dividing the electorate ahead of elections.

‘Backdoor strategy’ claim and President’s rule warning

The Chief Minister further alleged that the BJP was attempting to gain control of the state through indirect means. “Since they cannot win Bengal electorally, they are planning a backdoor strategy—forcing cancellation of elections and imposing President’s Rule,” she said.

She warned that such a situation could jeopardise the voting rights of citizens.

Amid rising tensions, Mamata urged people to remain calm and avoid provocation. She assured legal assistance for those whose names have been excluded from voter lists but stressed that protests must remain peaceful.

“Do not approach adjudicators or take the law into your own hands,” she said, cautioning that involvement in unrest could lead to legal consequences.

Criticism of Election Commission

Mamata also criticised the Election Commission of India, accusing it of failing to ensure adequate security during the SIR process. She claimed that despite the Commission appointing its own officials, it had not been able to maintain law and order.

She further alleged a lack of coordination between the administration and her office, stating that no officials had reached out to her during the crisis.

The Chief Minister alleged that “communal elements” had infiltrated local groups and were attempting to influence voters by distributing money and creating divisions.

She cautioned residents of Malda to stay vigilant and not fall prey to such tactics, particularly in the sensitive pre-election period.

Call for calm in Malda

Concluding her address, Mamata appealed for peace, especially with Friday approaching, urging residents not to be swayed by rumours or incitement.

“Maintain peace. Do not let anyone provoke you,” she said, warning that those involved in violence could face action from central agencies like the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

The incident and the political reactions have further intensified tensions in West Bengal ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, with both sides trading sharp accusations over law and order and electoral integrity.

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