ED action in Bengal echoes in Himachal, Revenue Minister Jagat Negi backs Mamata Banerjee
Shimla, Jan 13,
The Enforcement Directorate’s ongoing action in West Bengal ahead of the Assembly elections has triggered political reactions far beyond the state, with Himachal Pradesh Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi openly coming out in support of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
In a sharp media statement issued on Tuesday, the senior Congress leader lauded Mamata Banerjee for confronting central agencies head-on, describing her response as fearless and emblematic of political courage. Negi said he was “deeply impressed” after watching a video circulating on social media in which the West Bengal Chief Minister strongly reacted to the ED’s action.
Referring to what he termed a “pattern of selective targeting,” Negi alleged that central investigative agencies were being used as tools to destabilise non-rightist-ruled states ahead of elections. He cited recent developments in states such as Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, claiming that similar actions there were aimed at creating political uncertainty and weakening elected governments just before polls.
“The misuse of central agencies to silence political opponents is a serious threat to democracy,” Negi said, alleging that such agencies become active only during election seasons. “This selective enforcement creates a manufactured narrative to influence voters and tilt the electoral balance,” he added.
The Revenue Minister further claimed that the agencies no longer function autonomously and instead operate under political pressure from the Centre. According to him, the timing and manner of the ED’s action in West Bengal indicated an attempt to influence the electoral process by targeting the leadership of the Trinamool Congress.
Negi said Mamata Banerjee’s public reaction symbolised resistance against intimidation and should receive support from democratic forces across the country. “Her stand reflects political resolve and the courage to defend constitutional values,” he remarked.
Known as a firebrand tribal leader in Himachal Pradesh, Jagat Singh Negi has consistently been a vocal critic of rightist forces and their affiliates. Several of his past statements targeting the Centre and the previous Himachal Pradesh government have sparked political debate and drawn widespread public attention.
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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
