Kolkata, 29 March (H.S.):

The ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) has intensified its attack over the recent administrative reshuffle ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections, accusing the Election Commission of India of facilitating “backdoor politics” in favour of the BJP under the pretext of neutrality.

At a press conference on Sunday, TMC leader and Beleghata candidate Kunal Ghosh alleged that officials with alleged political links are being appointed in key administrative positions in the state. He specifically targeted Uttar Dinajpur District Magistrate Vivek Kumar, claiming that his father, Birendra Kumar Singh, is a leader of BJP ally Janata Dal (United) and a former MP from Aurangabad.

Ghosh alleged that “people linked to the BJP are being placed in sensitive positions in a state like West Bengal,” and questioned the neutrality of such appointments. “Those being posted in the name of neutrality are not neutral,” he claimed.

Highlighting the importance of District Magistrates during elections, the TMC said that DMs play a crucial role in overseeing nominations, resolving voter-related disputes, managing polling stations, and ultimately deciding the validity of candidates’ nominations. The party alleged that the BJP and the Election Commission were acting in tandem, raising concerns over the fairness of the electoral process.

The ruling party also pointed out that the Election Commission had earlier removed Malda police observer Jayant Kant following complaints by the TMC. Just two days ago, the party had also alleged corruption against observers in four Assembly constituencies—Ballygunge, Madhyamgram, Gazole and Bongaon South.

With yet another administrative official now under scrutiny for alleged political links within 72 hours, the TMC has termed it a “conspiracy” and warned of approaching the Election Commission with formal complaints.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey