Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, November 5, 2024, Kolkata :
Tensions escalated outside the West Bengal Legislative Assembly on Tuesday as BJP MLA Ashok Dinda was involved in a heated confrontation with assembly security personnel over the entry of central forces ahead of the upcoming winter session. The incident, which temporarily created a standoff near the assembly premises, has sparked political debate and heightened pressure within the state’s political circles.The drama unfolded when MLA Ashok Dinda, accompanied by his colleague Shankar Ghosh, attempted to enter the assembly grounds in a vehicle guarded by two Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawans. The vehicle was stopped at the assembly gates by the assembly’s security personnel, leading to a confrontation. Dinda, who was reportedly behind the wheel, expressed his frustration at being blocked from entering with his security detail. The situation quickly became tense, with both sides exchanging heated words.
The security personnel, acting on instructions from the assembly’s authorities, insisted that only authorized individuals and designated personnel could enter with central security forces. In response, Dinda and his associates argued that the presence of the CRPF was in accordance with the security protocols for elected representatives. As the argument escalated, the assembly’s marshal stepped in, producing formal instructions that outlined the procedures for the entry of central forces into the legislative complex.
This intervention helped de-escalate the situation temporarily, but it raised questions about the handling of security arrangements and the role of central forces in the state’s political landscape. After some back-and-forth, the CRPF jawans were eventually seen disembarking from the vehicle, and Dinda’s vehicle was allowed to proceed into the assembly grounds without the central security escort.
The clash between BJP MLA Dinda and assembly authorities is a sign of the growing political pressures ahead of the winter session, which is set to begin on November 25, 2024. Sources indicate that several significant proposals, including a 100-day work scheme and a housing scheme, are expected to be presented during the session. These proposals, if passed, could impact large segments of the population and are likely to attract intense scrutiny from opposition parties, including the BJP.
The BJP, which has long been critical of the state government’s handling of security and law enforcement issues, has raised concerns about the role of central forces in the state. The clash on Tuesday is seen as part of a broader power struggle between the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and opposition parties, especially the BJP, ahead of upcoming elections. The BJP has been pushing for greater central government involvement in the state’s administration, including the deployment of central forces to ensure law and order.
The incident has also ignited political debates about the state’s security protocols and the presence of central forces in West Bengal, particularly during times of political unrest. While the TMC government has often been reluctant to allow the entry of central forces into the state’s legislative processes, the BJP sees it as a necessary step for ensuring the safety and security of its leaders and the democratic process.
The clash over central forces’ entry comes at a time when political tensions in West Bengal are running high. With several high-stakes issues on the agenda for the upcoming winter session, both the ruling party and opposition are preparing for an intense period of legislative activity. BJP leaders, including Dinda, have voiced concerns that the state government is trying to limit the influence and authority of central forces, particularly in areas where the opposition is asserting a greater presence.
As the dispute over security protocols continues, the BJP’s call for the free movement of central forces within the state is expected to remain a contentious issue. The 100-day work scheme and housing projects that are expected to dominate the legislative agenda will likely be another flashpoint, with the BJP demanding transparency and accountability in the implementation of these programs.
The clash at the assembly gates has set the stage for a politically charged winter session. With the BJP and TMC on opposing sides, the entry of central forces into the legislative assembly is more than just a security matter—it’s a symbolic battleground for political control and influence in West Bengal. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on the assembly session, where the opposition is poised to challenge the government on a range of issues, including governance, security, and state autonomy.
With the winter session just around the corner, the political temperature in Kolkata is rising, and it remains to be seen how the central and state governments will navigate this volatile landscape.