A political storm erupted in Mecheda as Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders protested against Suvendu Adhikari by placing a shoe garland on his photo. The protest was sparked by a recent comment from Mamata Banerjee regarding the Maha Kumbh which the BJP strongly criticised. In response, TMC supporters staged a demonstration.

Details & Context

The incident unfolded during a TMC rally in Shantipur, Mecheda where Suvendu Adhikari’s photo was not only adorned with a shoe garland but was also subjected to further insult as some protestors were seen hitting the picture with shoes.

A TMC leader stated,

“A few BJP members who have no public support came here and made derogatory remarks about Mamata Banerjee and even burned her effigy. In protest we organised this event in Shantipur. We believe Suvendu insulted our Didi and we have no words to match his language. Our only response is to garland him with shoes and show him the door.”

Reacting to the incident BJP’s Rajya Sabha MP Shamik Bhattacharya condemned the protest, recalling an old incident,

“During demonetisation people in Park Circus lined up to spit on Narendra Modi's photo and then went to a biryani shop. This is TMC's culture - their way of politics. In a state where the Leader of Opposition who holds a significant position after the Chief Minister is disrespected like this it speaks volumes about TMC’s standards. Calling Maha Kumbh a ‘Death Kumbh’ for political gain and minority appeasement is an insult to Bengal’s dignity.”

Mamata Banerjee’s Statement

Mamata Banerjee had earlier commented,

“I respect Maha Kumbh but creating unnecessary hype without proper planning led to many deaths. They claimed 30 deaths but how many bodies were thrown into the river.? Thousands. They set up camps worth lakhs for VIPs while using religion for profit. I cannot support this.”

Read More: Trump Clarifies Stance on Gaza Resettlement Plan.

Suvendu Adhikari’s Reaction

In response to the protest, Suvendu Adhikari said,

“Some Muslim TMC leaders put a shoe garland on my photo today. Let them continue doing this - the more they do, the better it will be for me. People in Midnapore regardless of party lines, love me and I love them back. Show the picture more and more - not just East Midnapore but the entire undivided Midnapore will wipe them out.”

Impact Analysis

The event has further intensified the political rivalry between TMC and BJP in West Bengal. With both parties using strong words and symbolic protests the political atmosphere is heating up especially with upcoming elections in focus.

This incident highlights the growing political tension in West Bengal. As protests and counter-protests continue the people of Midnapore are witnessing a fierce battle of words and actions between the ruling TMC and the opposition BJP.