"BJP is anti-Bengal and anti-Bengali," says TMC MP Sagarika Ghosh

"BJP is anti-Bengal and anti-Bengali. It is a party of outsiders and 'zamindars'. Funds to Bengal have been stopped. Trains in Bengal have been stopped. Central forces are only sent to Bengal, not to Gujarat or Uttar Pradesh," Sagarika Ghosh claimed in a self-made video on Sunday.

She further questioned the resignation of Election Commissioner Arun Goel and asked what message this sends about the world's largest democracy.

"Now on the eve of elections, Election Commissioner Arun Goel has resigned. What message does this send about the world's largest democracy? TMC will not allow you to come into Bengal and loot our votes. The Trinamool Congress will not allow you to suppress Bengal," she added.

Ghosh further said, "Trinamool Congress will not allow you to damage the interests of the people of Bengal. Not now, not ever."

Earlier on Saturday, Election Commissioner Arun Goel resigned from the post ahead of Lok Sabha elections.

His resignation has been accepted by the President.

"In pursuance of clause (1) of Section 11 of The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023, the President is pleased to accept the resignation tendered by Shri Arun Goel, Election Commissioner with effect from the 09th March, 2024", an official statement from the Ministry of Law and Justice read.

Meanwhile, the election dates are likely to be announced next week.

Goel assumed charge as Election Commissioner (EC) of India on November 21, 2022.

He has also worked as Secretary, Ministry of Culture; Vice-Chairman, Delhi Development Authority; Additional Secretary and Financial Advisor, Ministry of Labour and Employment; Joint Secretary, Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance.

The Lok Sabha polls are expected to be held in April-May this year. (ANI)