The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has expressed strong disapproval of the recent arrest of Vinesh Chandel, co-founder of the political consulting firm I-PAC, labeling it a “deeply alarming” situation just days before the West Bengal Assembly elections. The party claims that the timing of the arrest threatens the fairness of the electoral process.
In a statement shared on social media, TMC general secretary Abhishek Banerjee remarked that this action sends a “chilling message” to those involved with opposition groups. He stated, “If you work with the opposition, you might be next. This isn’t democracy; it’s intimidation!”
Banerjee emphasized the perception of “double standards” within investigative agencies, noting that those who face serious corruption charges appear to be shielded when they align with the ruling party, while others are targeted at politically advantageous times. “People are becoming aware of this pattern,” he added.
Concerns were also raised about the roles of key institutions during this crucial pre-election period, including the Election Commission of India, the Enforcement Directorate, the Central Bureau of Investigation, and the National Investigation Agency. According to the TMC, the actions of these bodies might diminish public trust and lead to an unbalanced political climate.
Banerjee stated, “When organizations meant to uphold democracy start acting as tools of pressure, trust erodes. We see the Election Commission on one side and agencies like the ED, NIA, and CBI stepping in at sensitive times. This creates an atmosphere of fear rather than fairness.”
He further noted, “India has long taken pride in its dynamic democracy—vocal, complex, but free. Increasingly, people are questioning if that still holds true,” pointing out the possible long-term consequences of diminishing institutional independence.
In a direct appeal to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP leaders, Banerjee declared, “Join us in Bengal on May 4th and 5th. Bring Gyanesh Kumar and every agency at your disposal. Bengal will not be intimidated, will not be silenced, and will not bow. This land responds to pressure with resistance, and we will demonstrate what that means!”
