Bengal minister Bratya Basu threatens police over EC orders
A political controversy has intensified in West Bengal after a viral video of state minister Bratya Basu surfaced ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. In the clip, Basu is allegedly heard cautioning police personnel against strictly following directives issued by the Election Commission of India during the poll period.
According to the allegations, he suggested that officers who adhere too closely to these instructions are being “noted,” implying possible consequences if the ruling All India Trinamool Congress, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, returns to power.
The remarks have drawn strong criticism from opposition parties, who accuse the state leadership of attempting to influence the police and undermine the fairness of the electoral process. Critics stress that law enforcement must remain neutral to ensure free and fair elections.
The controversy comes amid an already charged political atmosphere in West Bengal, with tensions expected to rise further as the elections approach. The role of the Election Commission of India and the conduct of the police are likely to remain under close scrutiny.
So far, Bratya Basu has not issued a detailed response to the viral video. The episode has added to the ongoing political debate in the state, raising questions about governance, institutional independence, and the conduct of key stakeholders during elections.
