CM's Mic Turned Off at Meeting

In a heated session on Monday, Bengal minister Manas Bhunia raised a special notice in the state Assembly regarding Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s alleged humiliation during a Niti Aayog meeting. Bhunia described the incident, where Banerjee's microphone was reportedly switched off while she was speaking, as a serious affront to cooperative federalism. The Speaker of the Assembly canceled the question hour to address this pressing issue. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) opposed Bhunia's notice, with MLA Shankar Ghosh arguing that Banerjee's comments were unofficial since they were made outside the meeting context. In response to the ongoing tensions, BJP legislators staged a walkout from the Assembly, highlighting the deepening rift between the ruling party and the opposition. During the session, Chief Minister Banerjee criticized the BJP for its remarks regarding the division of Bengal, asserting that such discussions are unacceptable. She pointed out that the central government had agreed to share the Teesta River's water with Bangladesh without consulting the state, warning that this could deprive North Bengal residents of essential drinking water. Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari emphasized the BJP's commitment to unity, stating that the party has consistently participated in discussions and will continue to do so. He dismissed claims of division as individual opinions rather than official party positions, indicating a desire for collaborative governance despite the current tensions.