New Delhi, May 1 (IANS). Union Minister of State Nityanand Rai gave a sharp reaction to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s allegations on the Kolkata Strong Room controversy. He said that this could be Mamata Banerjee’s last term as Chief Minister. That is why in frustration she sat on strike outside the strongroom.
In fact, after the assembly elections in Bengal, Trinamool leaders had started a protest near the EVM strong room over the fear of tampering.
While talking to the media, Nityanand Rai said that the people of West Bengal have expressed confidence in the work of PM Modi, whereas under the rule of Mamata Banerjee, the common people have had to face violence, hooliganism and crimes. He alleged that incidents like rape and violence have become the hallmark of the government in the state and the state government is not cooperating even on serious issues like border security, which is affecting the security of the country.
Whereas in Delhi, Union Minister of State BL Verma, while talking to IANS, said that during elections, the role of agents is important in the nomination process and all the information is made public by the Election Commission. He accused Mamata Banerjee of trying to weaken the democratic processes and trying to interfere in the functioning of the Election Commission. Despite being the Chief Minister, he should follow the procedure as a candidate.
He also said that if any representative is not present, it is their responsibility and the entire process can be monitored through cameras. He also indicated that this tenure of Mamata Banerjee could be her last and the current circumstances are weakening her political position.
Meanwhile, in Pampore, Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah said that he does not believe in monitoring of EVMs before the elections, but it is necessary to ensure their security after the elections. Giving the example of the old ballot box era, he said that even at that time surveillance was maintained outside the strong room. Mamata Banerjee also has the right to monitor, but she raised questions on the Special Intensive Review (SIR) of the Election Commission, alleging that changes are being made in the voter list through it, which can be dangerous for democracy.
He warned that if the results of this process proved true, it would be a matter of concern for the entire country.
–IANS
ASH/ABM