Kolkata, June 18: A new controversy has emerged in West Bengal politics regarding the security arrangements of former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Kolkata police have categorically dismissed allegations claiming that the state government intentionally withdrew her security.
On Wednesday night, two Rajya Sabha members from the Trinamool Congress (TMC), Derek O’Brien and Sagarika Ghosh, along with Lok Sabha MP Mahua Moitra, posted a video on social media. The video showed an empty police outpost in front of Mamata Banerjee’s residence in Kalighat, South Kolkata. TMC leaders alleged that her security was removed at the direction of the administration.
However, sources within the state police have refuted these claims. According to police officials, there has been no reduction in Mamata Banerjee’s security. Only two private security officers (PSOs) assigned to her were replaced as part of routine administrative procedures.
Police sources indicated that Mamata Banerjee had requested to retain the two Kolkata police officers who managed her security during her tenure as Chief Minister. However, government regulations do not allow for appointments or postings based on personal preference.
A senior police officer stated, “The transfer of security officers occurs according to duty rosters and established government protocols. In this case, a standard administrative reshuffle was conducted.”
Sources noted that the two new security officers sent to her Kalighat residence on Wednesday night were not permitted to take over their duties by Mamata Banerjee and her associates. It was reported that the former Chief Minister was unfamiliar with these officers.
Meanwhile, the police clarified that security at Mamata Banerjee’s residence has not been reduced but rather strengthened. High security barricades were also erected outside her home starting Wednesday.
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