BJP responsible for COVID surge in Bengal : Mamata

Nabadwip:West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Friday held the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) responsible for COVID surge in Bengal.

Addressing a public meeting here, Ms Banerjee said, she will urge Election Commission to stop BJP from bringing outsiders in Bengal during campaigning to check spread of COVID-19

The TMC supremo said the BJP brought people from "worst-hit" states like Gujarat for erecting marquees for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's poll rallies.

"We have nothing to say if the PM or other leaders come for campaigning... Why should the BJP bring people from worst-affected states to set up podiums and pandals for rallies," the chief minister questioned.

Ms Banerjee said, “BJP targeted my leg to stop me from campaigning, but I proved them wrong with blessings of people.”

With West Bengal witnessing a surge in coronavirus cases, like other states, the state Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has called an all-party meeting today to reiterate instructions on campaigning amid the pandemic and encourage more virtual rallies for the remaining phases of the Assembly elections.

The meeting has been called at the behest of the Election Commission (EC).Last week, the poll panel had warned all political parties that it will not hesitate to ban rallies and meetings if precautions are not adhered to.(UNI)