Trinamool Congress general secretary Abhishek Banerjee criticized the BJP for allegedly politicizing the deaths of its workers, claiming that the party reneged on its promise to support the families of deceased workers. Speaking at an election rally in Balarampur, Banerjee highlighted that despite Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s commitment to provide jobs to the families of deceased BJP workers Trilochan Mahato and Dulal Kumar, no jobs have been offered even after eight years. Banerjee also accused BJP’s Purulia MP Jyotirmay Singh Mahato of ignoring the families’ attempts to reach out for assistance.
In 2018, Trilochan Mahato and Dulal Kumar, BJP workers, died under suspicious circumstances in Balarampur, Purulia, before the state panchayat elections. Abhishek Banerjee recalled the deaths, criticizing the BJP for exploiting the situation for political gain. He emphasized that the BJP’s victory in Purulia in 2019 and a narrow win in the Balarampur Assembly constituency in 2021 were achieved through politicizing these deaths. Banerjee highlighted the unfulfilled promise of job opportunities for the families made by Amit Shah.
Abhishek Banerjee questioned the BJP’s selection of Jaladhar Mahato as a candidate from Balarampur, alleging that the candidate, reportedly a close associate of MP Jyotirmay Singh Mahato, secured the nomination by offering a new car as a bribe. Banerjee raised concerns about the candidate’s credibility and asked the people of Balarampur if they deserved such treatment. Additionally, Banerjee criticized the BJP for delays in train services like the Howrah-Chakradharpur Express and Purulia Express, questioning the MP’s ability to ensure essential services.
Banerjee also accused the Centre of neglecting the Kurmi community, disregarding the Kurmali language, and threatening tribal traditions by proposing a Uniform Civil Code. He urged voters not to be swayed by religious politics and instead support Shantiram Mahato, emphasizing the candidate’s dedication and calling for a significant victory margin.
