Home Minister Amit Shah Dismisses Mamata Banerjee’s ‘Paid Crowd’ Claim

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday rejected West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s allegation that the BJP was bringing ‘paid supporters’ from outside states to boost rally crowds during the ongoing Assembly elections.

Responding to the charge, Shah questioned its logic and said, “Show this crowd. Can so many people come from outside?”

“Kya yaar, aap bhi Mamata Banerjee ki baat sun rahe ho,” he added, urging others not to take such claims seriously.

The remarks follow Banerjee’s April 5 allegation that the BJP was mobilising people from other states and paying them to attend rallies in an attempt to influence the elections.

Speaking to IANS, Shah reiterated confidence in the BJP’s electoral performance, stating, “We are going to win the election with a huge majority.”

The Minister also dismissed concerns over reports of clashes between BJP and Trinamool Congress workers, saying, “There is no clash at all; the election is being conducted peacefully. Those who have covered Bengal know how many people used to die in every election.”

Despite Shah’s claims, workers from the two parties clashed violently in Jagatdal in North 24 Parganas on Sunday night.

The incident involved stone-pelting, firing, and crude bombs, leaving several injured. The clash injured at least three people, while a Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) jawan sustained a bullet injury to his leg.

Officials said the clash occurred near a police station after BJP workers alleged that someone had removed posters and flags put up for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s rally at Jalebi Math Maidan.

Campaigning for the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly Election 2026 has intensified, with parties holding rallies and roadshows to mobilise voters.

Record Voter Turnout

The state recorded a voter turnout of 92.03 per cent in the first phase on April 23, the highest since 1951, despite isolated incidents of violence.

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