Kolkata, January 2, 2025
BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari has made serious allegations against the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) government in West Bengal, accusing them of allowing “Bangladesh-style attacks on Hindus” in various parts of the state. The allegations, made during a press conference on Wednesday, have sparked political controversy, with tensions escalating between the BJP and TMC.
Adhikari claimed that there had been a rise in violent attacks on Hindu families, particularly during religious events, with the perpetrators allegedly belonging to Muslim-majority communities. He compared the incidents to the attacks on Hindus that have been reported in neighboring Bangladesh, a country with a significant Hindu minority, especially around the time of Durga Puja celebrations.
“These are not mere isolated incidents. This is a concerted effort to target Hindus in West Bengal, and the state’s government is turning a blind eye to it. What is happening here is similar to the situation in Bangladesh,” Adhikari stated, adding that Hindus in the state are living in fear for their safety and security.
The BJP leader’s comments came after several reports emerged from districts such as North 24 Parganas and Malda, where Hindu homes and temples were allegedly attacked or vandalized during the last few weeks. Videos and social media posts depicting damaged idols and burned structures have further fueled the controversy.
Adhikari demanded immediate action from the Mamata Banerjee-led state government to provide protection to Hindu communities and bring the culprits to justice. “If the government does not take strict action, we will be forced to escalate our protest,” he warned.
The TMC, however, has swiftly rejected the claims. TMC spokespersons have accused the BJP of politicizing the issue and trying to create division in the state ahead of the next assembly elections. “These are baseless and inflammatory remarks designed to disturb the peace in the state,” said a TMC official.
West Bengal has witnessed sporadic communal tensions in the past, and Adhikari’s remarks are expected to further heighten the political and communal climate in the state. Both the BJP and TMC have historically had a fraught relationship, with each accusing the other of instigating unrest.
As the situation continues to unfold, the state government has promised to look into the recent incidents, while police forces have been deployed to maintain law and order.
