West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee ridiculed on Saturday the C hai pe charcha campaign of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi and described it as a “drama” ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.
“Unlike the BJP, we do not believe in chatting at tea shops. It is drama before the elections,” she said while addressing a convention of youth outfits of the Trinamool Congress at Durgapur in Bardhaman district.
The Trinamool chairperson said that those indulging in such campaigns were involved in “self-centred” politics and unlike them, the Trinamool stood by the people all 365 days of the year. “Politics is not for showing off. Politics needs dedication and devotion. We believe in leading a simple common man’s life...,” she said.
The Chai pe charcha (discussion over tea) campaign is being organised by the BJP across the country as part of its poll campaign.
Ms. Banerjee’s comments are significant as so far the Trinamool chairperson has chosen to stay away from any direct criticism of Mr. Modi. The BJP’s prime ministerial candidate has also been soft on her during his two rallies at the city.
The BJP State leadership said it was “unfortunate” that the Chief Minister had made snide remarks against an attempt to connect with ‘aam aadmi.’
