New debate in Bengal politics: Abhishek Banerjee’s sharp words on Election Commission and Gyanesh Kumar

News India Live, Digital Desk: It is sometimes difficult to expect peace in the politics of West Bengal. As the elections approach, the round of allegations and counter-allegations reaches its peak. The latest case is of veteran Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Abhishek Banerjee, who has recently said some things about the country’s Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, which have become a topic of discussion. What is the whole thing? Abhishek Banerjee is known for his aggressive politics. While raising questions on the impartiality of the Election Commission, he expressed his views regarding the coordination between the Central Government and the Commission. There is talk in the political circles that Banerjee feels that the decisions taken during elections sometimes do not match the ground reality or seem to be inclined towards a particular side. Abhishek says that elections are not just a process of ‘casting votes’, but it is a matter of public trust. If questions are raised on the transparency of an institution like the Election Commission, it is not a good sign for democracy. TMC has been vocal earlier also regarding the appointment of Gyanesh Kumar and subsequently the functioning of the Commission in sensitive states like Bengal. The concern hidden in Abhishek Banerjee’s questions is not just a statement, it is about the impact that is felt in the streets of Bengal during the elections. Abhishek Banerjee has tried to convey in signals that the decision of selection of election dates and deployment of security forces in Bengal should be taken independently. It is generally seen that opposition parties often accuse the Election Commission of working under pressure from the Centre. But this time Abhishek Banerjee has made the matter deeper by directly mentioning CEC Gyanesh Kumar. His statements clearly show that the party is not only making its strategies for the upcoming elections, but they are also preparing a defensive shield against any possible bias. What will be the impact on the general public? When a big leader raises questions on such a big constitutional post, then doubts also arise in the minds of the public. The people of West Bengal understand politics very deeply. These sharp expressions of Abhishek Banerjee have also forced BJP and other opposition parties to think about what the real stance of the election campaign is going to be. In the end, the question remains whether such rhetoric increases the pressure on institutions or is it a demand for reform? Only the coming elections will give the correct answer to these questions.