Suvendu Adhikari Leads BJP's North Bengal Offensive, Accuses Mamata of Bias and Corruption

North Bengal's simmering political pot boiled over on Tuesday as BJP leaders, led by Suvendu Adhikari, launched a scathing attack on the Mamata Banerjee government over alleged development bias. Accusing the state of neglecting the region with 3.5 crore residents, Adhikari held a parallel event just 5km away from the Chief Minister's visit to Kanchenjungha Stadium.

His fiery speech questioned Banerjee's commitment to the region, suggesting her visit was merely a photo-op to regain support after BJP victories in seven parliamentary seats. He further claimed budget allocations for North Bengal development remained largely unfulfilled.

Adhikari's accusations didn't stop there. He also targeted the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration, alleging corruption in recruitment. This sparked promises of a future hill-wide movement against the alleged malpractice.

The afternoon saw a dramatic turn at Uttarkanya, the state government's branch secretariat. Adhikari, accompanied by MLAs and supporters, demanded entry to inspect the facility. However, police barricades blocked their path.

Refusal ignited a ten-minute protest filled with slogans against Mamata and her government. Despite an invitation from the department's principal secretary, Adhikari refused to back down, demanding an apology from the police officer and threatening legal action at the Jalpaiguri Circuit Bench.

The BJP contingent eventually left, their voices still echoing with accusations. District Trinamool leaders, however, dismissed the episode as theatrics aimed at political gain, suggesting the BJP's dwindling support in North Bengal fueled this desperate display.