“Arrogance in uniform”: Mamata Banerjee attacks TMC MPs detained outside Amit Shah’s office

January 9, 2026

New Delhi: West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee launched a scathing attack on the central government on Friday after her party MPs, Mahua Moitra and Derek O’Brien, were detained outside Amit Shah’s office. The MPs were protesting the ED raids on the Kolkata home of I-PAC chief Pratik Jain.

“Unacceptable action” against MPs

Mamata Banerjee said, “I strongly condemn the shameful and unacceptable action taken against our MPs. Dragging elected representatives out onto the streets for exercising their democratic right is not lawlessness—it is arrogance in uniform. This is democracy, not the BJP’s private property.”

Accuses BJP of Double Standards

Mamata Banerjee accused the BJP of “double standards.” She said that when the BJP holds protests for its leaders, they receive special privileges and a “red carpet,” but for opposition MPs, the same process leads to humiliation and detention.

Democracy is not just for the convenience of those in power

She further wrote, “Democracy is not based on the convenience or comfort of those in power. When BJP leaders hold protests, they receive a red carpet and special treatment. When opposition MPs raise their voices, they are dragged, detained, and humiliated. This double standard exposes the BJP’s concept of democracy—it is obedience, not dissent.”

Mamata Banerjee’s message: No restrictions on dissent

Mamata Banerjee’s statement made it clear that her party stands for democratic rights and the right to express dissent. She appealed to the central government to treat opposition leaders and MPs equally and equitably.

I strongly condemn the shameful and unacceptable treatment meted out to our Members of Parliament. Dragging elected representatives on the streets for exercising their democratic right to protest outside the Home Minister’s office is not law enforcement – it is arrogance in…

— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) January 9, 2026