Mamata Banerjee Slams ‘Central Agencies,’ Urges CJI to Defend Constitution at Jalpaiguri Bench Launch

Mamata's attack on 'agencies': Bengal CM asks CJI to protect Constitution; inaugurates Jalpaiguri circuit bench

Mamata Banerjee Slams ‘Central Agencies,’ Urges CJI to Defend Constitution at Jalpaiguri Bench Launch

In a politically charged ceremony marking the inauguration of the Calcutta High Court’s new circuit bench in Jalpaiguri, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee delivered a scathing critique of central investigative bodies—accusing them of being weaponized against opposition leaders. Her remarks, which have reignited a national debate over federalism and judicial independence, culminated in a direct appeal to Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna: “Protect the Constitution.” This bold intervention underscores the deepening tensions between the Trinamool Congress-led state government and the Union administration—a conflict now framed as a battle for constitutional integrity. At the heart of this controversy is the Mamata Banerjee attack on agencies, a phrase that has quickly become a flashpoint in India’s political discourse.

Table of Contents

The Jalpaiguri Event: A Judicial Milestone with Political Undertones

The inauguration of the Calcutta High Court’s permanent circuit bench in Jalpaiguri is a significant development for North Bengal, long underserved by judicial infrastructure. The bench aims to reduce case backlogs and improve access to justice for millions in the region .

However, what was meant to be a celebratory moment for the judiciary quickly turned into a political platform. Speaking before dignitaries including judges and local officials, Mamata Banerjee used the occasion to voice long-standing grievances against agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)—which she claims are being misused to target her party and its leaders .

Mamata’s Key Allegations Against Central Agencies

The West Bengal CM did not mince words. She alleged that central agencies are functioning as “political tools” rather than impartial investigators. Her core accusations include:

  • Selective targeting: ED and CBI raids focus disproportionately on opposition parties while ignoring allies of the ruling BJP.
  • Undermining federalism: State autonomy is being eroded through coercive investigations into routine administrative decisions.
  • Intimidation tactics: Repeated summons and prolonged interrogations are used to harass elected representatives.

She cited recent cases involving TMC ministers and MPs, arguing that these actions are designed to destabilize her democratically elected government .

Her Direct Appeal to the Chief Justice of India

In one of the most striking moments of her speech, Mamata Banerjee turned her gaze toward the judiciary—the last bastion of constitutional defense, in her view. “I request the Hon’ble Chief Justice of India to protect the Constitution,” she said, drawing applause from supporters .

This appeal is not merely rhetorical. It reflects a growing trend among opposition leaders who see the Supreme Court as a critical check on executive overreach. By invoking the CJI directly, Mamata is framing the issue not as partisan politics but as a matter of constitutional survival—a narrative that resonates with civil society groups and legal scholars concerned about democratic backsliding .

Historical Context: TMC vs Central Agencies

This is not the first time Mamata has clashed with central agencies. Since her re-election in 2021, her government has faced multiple ED probes into alleged corruption in welfare schemes and teacher recruitment. Several TMC leaders, including senior minister Partha Chatterjee, have been arrested .

The CM has consistently denied wrongdoing, calling these cases “politically motivated vendettas.” Her rhetoric has intensified in recent months, especially after the Supreme Court refused to stay certain ED summonses, which she interpreted as judicial indifference to federal balance .

Mamata’s comments have drawn sharp reactions. BJP leaders accused her of “disrespecting institutions” and attempting to shield corrupt officials. “No one is above the law,” retorted Union Minister Amit Malviya .

Conversely, opposition parties across India—from DMK to AAP—have echoed her concerns, warning of a “centralization of power” that threatens India’s pluralistic democracy. Legal experts note that while agencies must operate independently, their repeated use against opposition figures does raise legitimate questions about proportionality and intent .

Conclusion: A Constitutional Crossroads?

The Mamata Banerjee attack on agencies during the Jalpaiguri bench inauguration is more than political theater—it’s a strategic escalation in a broader national debate about the balance of power between the Centre and states. By linking judicial infrastructure with constitutional defense, she has reframed her party’s legal battles as a fight for democratic principles. Whether the judiciary heeds her call or remains neutral will shape not just West Bengal’s political future, but the very architecture of Indian federalism. For deeper insights into India’s federal tensions, see [INTERNAL_LINK:India_federalism_crisis].

Sources

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