Source The Hindu
KOLKATA — Renowned filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma (RGV) has sparked a fresh political firestorm, accusing outgoing West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of “attacking democracy” following her controversial decision to remain in office despite a decisive electoral defeat.
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) suffered a historic setback in the 2026 Assembly elections, with the BJP securing a commanding majority of 207 seats. However, Banerjee has firmly rejected the mandate, citing alleged “looting” of the process and refusing to tender her resignation to the Governor.
“Institutions are Democracy’s DNA”
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the filmmaker expressed his disbelief at the constitutional standoff unfolding in Bengal. RGV, known for his unfiltered takes on political developments, argued that ignoring institutional results is a direct assault on the democratic framework.
“After so many DECADES in POLITICS and 15 years as CM, I can’t believe that @MamataOfficial is ignoring that DEMOCRACY by its very DNA is about INSTITUTIONS and attacking them amounts to attacking DEMOCRACY,” Varma posted.
A State in Limbo
The filmmaker’s comments come as West Bengal enters a period of unprecedented political uncertainty. While the BJP prepares for its first-ever government in the state, Banerjee has dug in her heels, claiming “moral victory” despite losing her own seat in Bhabanipur to Suvendu Adhikari.
Addressing the media on Tuesday, the TMC chief alleged widespread EVM tampering and “nasty games” played by the Election Commission. “I will not resign. I did not lose. I will not go to Raj Bhavan… the question doesn’t arise,” she asserted, describing herself as a “free bird” who will now focus on the national INDIA alliance.
The Verdict of 2026
The final tally saw the TMC’s 15-year-old stronghold contract to just 80 seats, a sharp decline from their previous dominance. Political analysts suggest that while Banerjee remains a formidable figure, the refusal to concede power has drawn criticism from both political rivals and observers like Varma, who view it as a dangerous precedent for the country’s federal structure.
As the BJP urges the Governor to intervene, the spotlight remains on “Didi,” whose next move could determine whether Bengal sees a peaceful transition or a prolonged legal and constitutional battle.
