‘Undemocratic climate in Bengal:’ Sanjay Raut Backs Mamata Banerjee; Calls Refusal to Resign ‘Political Protest’

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Wednesday backed Mamata Banerjee, describing her refusal to resign as a “political protest” against what he alleged was the Centre’s conduct during the West Bengal elections.

Addressing a press conference, Raut said that while Banerjee had earlier kept some distance from sections of the INDIA alliance, opposition leaders across the country were now rallying behind her. He claimed that several alliance leaders had reached out to her personally, expressing solidarity and urging her to continue the fight.

Referring to her electoral defeat, Raut said Banerjee does not consider it a genuine loss, adding that he and other opposition leaders share that assessment. He alleged that the political atmosphere in West Bengal, shaped by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, created fear and tension across the state.

Raut further claimed that security forces, economic pressure, and “the entire central machinery” were deployed during the elections. He also alleged large-scale deletions from voter lists aimed at influencing the outcome, though these claims could not be independently verified.

According to Raut, Banerjee has decided to take her movement to the streets and reconnect directly with the public. He said her refusal to step down reflects her belief that she is the “real winner” and forms part of a broader protest against what he described as “anti-democratic” and “anti-Constitutional” actions.

Quoting Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, Raut said, “We are with you in this fight,” adding that most INDIA alliance leaders have extended their support.

On allegations of institutional bias, Raut said opposition parties may eventually have to reconsider participation in elections if such concerns persist, stressing the need for unity to safeguard democratic processes.

He also suggested that there were individuals within the ruling party uneasy with the current political climate, and called for outreach to such voices, describing the present moment as a “critical phase” for the country.

Drawing a parallel with the Emergency era under Indira Gandhi, Raut cited leaders who had broken ranks to oppose authoritarianism, and said similar efforts may be needed today.

Responding to questions on opposition unity, Raut criticised Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, calling his political stance “unstable.” He recalled that during the first INDIA alliance meeting in Patna, Banerjee had expressed doubts about Kumar’s consistency—remarks he said were later borne out when Kumar aligned with the BJP.

Raut also pointed to the Congress party’s diminished presence in West Bengal, noting that the state once produced leaders such as former President Pranab Mukherjee. He suggested that a stronger Congress could have altered the current political landscape.

He concluded by saying opposition leaders remain in contact and are continuing efforts to maintain unity.

At the time of publication, there was no official response from the BJP or the Election Commission to the allegations.