'Let's debate openly': Mamata Banerjee challenges PM Modi to live TV debate on Bengal issues

PTC Web Desk: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday launched a scathing counterattack against Prime Minister Narendra Modi following his controversial “Operation Bengal” remark. She accused the BJP-led Central Government of politicising governance, disrespecting Bengal’s people—particularly its women—and diverting attention from national issues with provocative language.

In a fiery response, Mamata Banerjee not only demanded that the BJP call early elections in West Bengal but also challenged the Prime Minister to a live TV debate. “Let’s debate openly—on television. Let the people of India hear what we are doing to protect the Constitution and democracy,” she said.

Her rebuttal came just hours after PM Modi sharply criticised the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government over recent incidents of violence in Murshidabad and Malda, accusing it of cruelty, apathy, and blocking central welfare schemes. He also invoked the term “Operation Bengal,” likening it to a previous political campaign he called “Operation Sindoor.”

Mamata Banerjee, visibly irked, termed “Operation Bengal” as an affront to the dignity of Bengal and especially its women. “The Prime Minister has insulted the women of Bengal. We respect everyone, but never at the cost of our own self-respect. If they want to test our strength, let them announce elections tomorrow. We are ready!” she said defiantly at a public event.

She further accused the Centre of orchestrating the so-called “Operation Sindoor” purely for political optics, and questioned its timing—coming when TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee was overseas as part of a parliamentary delegation. “While Abhishek is abroad raising India’s voice globally, PM Modi is in Bengal maligning our image,” she said.

Mamata said opposition leaders were united in defending India’s democratic values on the world stage, whereas the BJP was focused on "playing political Holi." She framed the central attacks as attempts to divert public attention from real issues.

Responding to BJP’s criticism of law and order in Bengal, Banerjee pointed to recent scandals involving BJP leaders elsewhere in the country. In a veiled dig at a viral incident in Madhya Pradesh, she said, “Are you not ashamed of what’s happening in your own states? It’s as if a blue film is being screened on public roads.”

She also hit back at the BJP’s portrayal of the opposition as ignorant. “They think they’re very smart, and everyone else is foolish. But people are watching. This is not about one party—it’s about protecting the idea of India,” she stated.

The escalating war of words comes at a politically charged moment, with both the TMC and BJP gearing up for the next electoral battle.