kolkata

Kolkata, October 12: West Bengal minister Dilip Ghosh launched a sharp attack on the Opposition INDIA bloc over its protest programme in Delhi, accusing opposition leaders of undermining democratic dialogue and attempting to intimidate constitutional institutions. Speaking to reporters in Kolkata on Monday, Ghosh asserted that no individual or political group was above the law and criticised the Opposition's approach to political disagreements.

Reacting to the protest rally and agitation called by the INDIA bloc in the national capital, Ghosh questioned the Opposition's willingness to engage in constructive discussions. He alleged that opposition leaders were avoiding democratic dialogue while increasingly resorting to demonstrations against important constitutional institutions.

“Even if the President invites them, they will not go there. They will neither talk nor participate in any constructive discussion. And now they are not even willing to spare the Supreme Court of the country, where they want to stage protests as well,” Ghosh said, criticising the Opposition's political strategy.

The minister further accused the opposition parties of attempting to put pressure on the administrative and constitutional framework through street protests. He described the agitation as an effort to intimidate institutions rather than resolve differences through established democratic mechanisms.

“This is essentially a direct attempt to intimidate and browbeat,” Ghosh said, issuing a pointed warning to the INDIA bloc. He maintained that political opposition and disagreement could not justify attempts to exert pressure on institutions responsible for upholding the Constitution and the rule of law.

His remarks came amid heightened security arrangements in Delhi ahead of the Opposition bloc's scheduled protest programme at Jantar Mantar. Authorities had taken precautionary measures in Central Delhi, including the temporary closure of six major metro stations and the deployment of additional security personnel around sensitive locations.

Ghosh's comments added to the political confrontation surrounding the Opposition's protest, with the minister questioning the methods adopted by the alliance and emphasising the importance of respecting constitutional institutions.

The INDIA bloc's demonstration in Delhi has drawn attention to the continuing political tensions between the ruling establishment and opposition parties. While the Opposition has pursued its protest programme, Ghosh's statement underscored the ruling side's criticism of the agitation and its insistence that political activities must remain within the framework of the law.

Reiterating his position, the minister said the Opposition must remember that no one in the country enjoys immunity from the law. His message was clear: democratic rights and political protests do not place any individual or organisation above the constitutional and legal framework of the country.