The political temperature in West Bengal has reached a boiling point as the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Election Commission of India (ECI) locked horns over the Special Institutional Review (SIR) process. On Tuesday, while CM Mamata Banerjee staged a dharna in Dharmatala, her nephew and TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee made a sensational claim that has sent shockwaves across the state.

Abhishek’s Claim of Bank Account Suspension Speaking from the dharna manch, Abhishek Banerjee alleged that the names of nearly 60 lakh voters currently under review are in danger. He further claimed that the Central Government is planning to freeze the bank accounts of those whose names are removed from the voter list. This statement immediately triggered widespread panic among voters and became a major talking point in political circles.

Chief Election Commissioner’s Strong Retort Responding to these allegations during a press briefing, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, without naming Abhishek, issued a stern warning. He stated that the Commission would not tolerate any political leader intimidating or threatening voters. “The entire process is being conducted as per the Constitution and the law of the land,” said Kumar. He emphasized that the ECI does not engage in responding to political rhetoric but ensures that no legitimate voter is left out.

The Road to a Peaceful Election Ending the ECI full bench’s two-day visit to Kolkata, the CEC assured the public that the Commission is committed to a free and fair 2026 Assembly Election. He warned that any attempt by political workers to create an atmosphere of fear would be dealt with an iron fist. The ECI has left for Delhi after reviewing the poll preparedness, leaving behind a charged political atmosphere in Bengal.