TMC accuses BJP of changing Malda panchayat office color to saffron

A political dispute has emerged in Malda following allegations by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) that the BJP-led Bhavuk Gram Panchayat altered the color of its office from blue and white to saffron. According to the TMC, the change was made without prior consultation and has sparked concerns over the use of government property for political purposes. The new color has drawn sharp reactions from the opposition, who view it as an attempt to associate the Panchayat office with the BJP's party colors.

TMC leaders have raised the issue with Panchayat authorities, accusing the BJP of turning a public institution into a party space. They have demanded that state funds be withheld from the Panchayat if the saffron color remains, arguing that the office should not be associated with any political party. The TMC has warned of protests unless the original blue and white color scheme is restored, citing the Chief Minister’s directive for uniformity in the color of government offices across the state.

In response, BJP leaders have defended the decision, stating that the color change was made by the locally elected officials of the Bhavuk Panchayat, a self-governing body. They argue that Panchayats have the autonomy to make decisions regarding their properties and that the saffron color reflects the party’s influence in the region. The BJP has stated that the change is not a political maneuver but rather a reflection of local sentiment and the party’s strong presence in the area.

The Bhavuk Gram Panchayat, located in the Old Malda area, has been a significant site of political activity. Despite the TMC’s dominance in other parts of Malda district, Bhavuk has been a BJP stronghold in recent years. The BJP has controlled the Panchayat following the last elections, where it successfully retained its position against TMC opposition. The change in office color adds to the ongoing political rivalry between the two parties, with both sides accusing each other of using public institutions for political gain.