Army disassembles TMC campaign stage in West Bengal

In a heated exchange in Kolkata, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the BJP and Rajnath Singh of misusing the Army following an incident where a Trinamul Congress agitation venue in the Maidan area, specifically the Gandhi statue on Mayo Road, was dismantled by the Indian Army.

The Army, officially permitted for only two days to remove the temporary structure, which had been in place for almost a month despite several reminders for its removal, extended the clearance due to logistical delays and coordination challenges. The Army contingent left the venue immediately after Banerjee's arrival.

Banerjee stated that the Army's actions were influenced by the BJP, and she had no grievance against the Army, but they always work for the country. She also accused the BJP of having a political vendetta against the TMC.

The location falls under the Headquarters Bengal Sub Area of the Eastern Command of the Army. The Kolkata police were informed, and the structure was being removed by the Indian Army. Banerjee alleged that the mike connection was snapped and the pandal was removed with the help of the Army.

Despite the incident, Banerjee offered help for the Durand Cup tournament to the Centre, a tournament she had attended in the past when invited. She also announced that the venue had been shifted to Rani Rashmoni Avenue at Esplanade with permission from the Army. Banerjee clarified that there was no traffic problem or road blockage at the venue.

Banerjee said that if the Army had consulted with the police force, the structure could have been removed without causing such a commotion. She also stated that the TMC never disturbs areas of the Army and the Railways.

An angry Banerjee rushed to the scene along with TMC leaders, expressing her displeasure at the BJP's actions. The incident is a further escalation in the ongoing political tensions between the BJP and the TMC in West Bengal.