With only a few days left before the first phase of the assembly elections, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has expressed heavy resentment over a delay in her helicopter takeoff. During a rally in Khardah, North 24 Parganas, she alleged that she was forced to wait inside her chopper on the runway for half an hour due to a lack of clearance from Air Traffic Control (ATC). She characterized this incident as a deliberate attempt to stifle the opposition’s campaign.

Allegations of Bias and Conspiracy
The Chief Minister directly accused the BJP-led central government of influencing the Election Commission and technical departments. She claimed that while routes are cleared seamlessly for BJP leaders, opposition leaders are subjected to unnecessary delays and searches. Banerjee questioned the democratic integrity of the process, suggesting that central agencies are being misused to hinder her electoral programs.

Safety Concerns and Political Fallout
Citing recent instances of drone scares and technical glitches during bad weather, the Trinamool supremo highlighted recurring lapses in her security. While the BJP has dismissed these claims as “political drama” intended to gain public sympathy, the incident has intensified the political atmosphere. This “chopper row” is expected to remain a central theme in the ongoing war of words between the ruling party and the opposition.

At a Glance

Mamata Banerjee alleged that her helicopter was intentionally grounded for 30 minutes at the runway.

She accused the Election Commission and ATC of working under the influence of the BJP government.

The Chief Minister termed the delay a democratic failure and a conspiracy to block opposition rallies.

BJP dismissed the allegations, calling them a routine technical matter and a bid for public sympathy.