Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday alleged that a “parallel administrative structure” led by central forces has been created in West Bengal to influence the ongoing electoral process. Speaking at a press conference in Lucknow, he urged voters to remain alert and oppose what he described as the “misuse of officials” during elections.

Yadav claimed that for the first time, a dual system of administration is operating in West Bengal alongside the state machinery. He alleged that a separate chain of command has been established through the deployment of central forces, which he said was interfering in the electoral process. According to him, this arrangement is undermining the authority of the existing state administration.

The SP chief further alleged that interference was visible even at senior levels of the police hierarchy. He claimed that suggestions were being made regarding postings of top officials, including the Director General of Police (DGP). Yadav also said that in several districts, IPS officers had been placed above local police chiefs, which he argued reflected undue influence on the administrative structure.

Also Read: Mallikarjun Kharge Appeals For High Turnout In West Bengal Phase 2 Voting

He went on to allege that some officials were acting under pressure or inducement. Without presenting specific evidence, Yadav claimed that certain officers had already received benefits or were expecting future gains. He also suggested that some postings were influenced by external pressure, including ongoing investigations or other administrative factors.

Drawing a comparison with Uttar Pradesh, Yadav alleged that similar strategies were earlier seen during the Rampur Lok Sabha by-election. He said such models of electoral influence could potentially be replicated in other states, including his own. He warned that voters should be cautious and ensure that democratic processes are not affected by administrative interference.

Despite his criticisms, Yadav expressed confidence that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee would secure a strong mandate. He said that people in the state were voting in large numbers in her favour. The remarks come amid heightened political debate over the conduct of elections, security deployment, and the role of central agencies in state electoral processes.

Also Read: PM Modi Confident BJP Will Form West Bengal Government After Elections