Mamata Banerjee Stages Dharna In Kolkata Against Post Poll Violence, Targets BJP

TMC Chief returned to public protest with a dharna in central Kolkata, accusing the BJP of attacking Trinamool leaders and using fear tactics. The Trinamool chief alleged that opponents tried to weaken the party after “looting votes” in the Bengal polls, and pledged to keep resisting.

Addressing supporters, Mamata Banerjee declared a direct challenge to the BJP leadership. Mamata said she would “fight or die”, blaming the party for violence and pressure on Trinamool workers. The protest underlined tensions that have continued since the Bengal election result went against Trinamool.

Mamata Banerjee dharna highlights sparse Trinamool MLA turnout

Despite the strong words, turnout from Trinamool’s elected ranks remained limited. Out of 80 party MLAs, only six reached the Esplanade dharna site. The legislators present were Chandrima Bhattacharya, Sovandeb Chattopadhyay, Nanya Bandopadhyay, Madan Mitra, Ashok Deb and Asima Patra, alongside a small group of party supporters.

Mamata Banerjee dharna focuses on BJP attacks and leadership claims

Three Trinamool MPs, Dola Sen, Kalyan Banerjee and Dereck O'Brien, joined Mamata Banerjee on the stage. Mamata, 71, accused the BJP of trying to break Trinamool after the defeat, and claimed leaders, including nephew Abhishek, had faced attacks and intimidation since the contested state polls.

At the protest, Mamata Banerjee used sharp language against the BJP leadership. “Ladenge ya marenge (I will fight or die). I will not die until I remove all of you from power,” Mamata said, describing this as a return to her “street fighter” avatar.