Mamata Banerjee Slams BJP on NRC Notice: A Systematic Assault on Democracy

Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, has sharply criticized the BJP following a Foreigners' Tribunal in Assam issuing a notice to a farmer, declaring him an illegal migrant. The farmer, a long-time resident of Coochbehar, was surprised by the notice despite holding valid documentation.

Banerjee described the event as an example of the BJP's attempt to extend NRC efforts into Bengal, a state outside its jurisdiction. She highlighted this as an attack on democracy, urging the opposition to unite against what she calls the BJP's 'oppressive machinery.'

She further alleged that the BJP's actions are a deliberate attempt to disenfranchise marginalized communities. In response, the state BJP claimed that Mamata's government was responsible for any documentation irregularities, suggesting illegal immigrants have forged documents to claim Indian citizenship.

(With inputs from agencies.)