Kolkata, September 1, 2025 — A major political controversy has erupted in West Bengal after Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the central government of misusing the Indian Army to dismantle a Trinamool Congress (TMC) protest stage in Kolkata’s Maidan area. The stage had been erected near the statue of Mahatma Gandhi to protest alleged atrocities and discrimination against Bengali-speaking migrant workers in BJP-ruled states.
The incident occurred on Monday afternoon when Army personnel removed the temporary structure, citing violation of permission norms. According to defence officials, the Indian Army’s Local Military Authority in Kolkata had granted permission for the stage for two days, in line with Supreme Court directives. However, the structure had remained in place for nearly a month despite multiple reminders to the organizers for its removal.
Reacting strongly, Mamata Banerjee rushed to the site and condemned the action, calling it “unethical, undemocratic, and politically motivated.” She alleged that the Army was being used by the BJP-led central government to suppress dissent and target the TMC. “I do not blame the Army, but the BJP’s vendetta politics is behind this. They are misusing the Army. This is a dirty political game,” Banerjee told reporters.
She further stated that the Army should have consulted the Kolkata Police before taking action. “If they had informed us, we would have removed the stage ourselves. There was no road blockage, and our programmes were held only on weekends with due permission,” she added.
The TMC, in a statement posted on social media, reiterated its respect for the Indian Army but condemned the dismantling of the protest site. “The BJP abused power to dismantle our Bhasha Andolan protest site despite prior permission and security deposits. This is undemocratic and unconstitutional,” the party said.
TMC leaders also announced plans to shift the protest venue to Rani Rashmoni Road and vowed to continue demonstrations across every block in the state. The party maintained that the protest was peaceful and aimed at highlighting the plight of Bengali migrants facing alleged harassment in other states.
The Army, in its official response, clarified that the action was taken only after the expiry of the permitted duration and after informing the local police. It emphasized that permissions for events in the Maidan area are strictly regulated and must comply with Supreme Court guidelines.
The incident has sparked widespread debate over the role of institutions in political affairs and raised concerns about the use of military authority in civilian matters. As tensions escalate, the episode is likely to fuel further confrontation between the TMC and the BJP ahead of upcoming electoral contests.
