Mamata Banerjee hits streets before PM Modi’s visit, protests ‘targeting’ of Bengalis in BJP-ruled states
In a bold political move, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee held a massive protest rally in Kolkata, condemning the alleged detention and harassment of Bengali-speaking migrant workers in several BJP-ruled states. The protest, which drew thousands of supporters and party workers, was aimed at highlighting what the Trinamool Congress (TMC) calls “a systematic targeting of Bengalis outside West Bengal.”
Allegations of Discrimination
According to the Chief Minister, Bengali-speaking workers employed in states like Odisha, Maharashtra, Haryana, and Rajasthan are facing increasing suspicion, arbitrary detention, and in some cases, deportation. Many of these workers, employed in sectors such as construction and manufacturing, are reportedly being mistaken for illegal immigrants and detained without proper verification.
Banerjee strongly condemned what she termed as “linguistic profiling” and asked whether speaking Bengali had now become a crime in India. She accused the BJP governments in these states of engaging in deliberate harassment of poor, hardworking migrants from Bengal under the guise of immigration checks.
The Protest Rally
The rally, which began from College Square and proceeded to Dorina Crossing, turned central Kolkata into a sea of flags, placards, and slogans. Despite inclement weather, Mamata Banerjee walked with supporters, calling for justice and respect for Bengali identity. She reiterated her government’s commitment to stand by every Bengali citizen, whether in West Bengal or elsewhere in the country.
TMC leaders echoed her sentiment, stating that the arrests and detentions are politically motivated and aimed at creating fear among migrants. They also claimed that many of those detained had valid identification documents and were legitimate Indian citizens.
TMC’s Response and Demands
The Trinamool Congress has called for the immediate release of all detained Bengali-speaking workers and demanded that the central government step in to ensure the safety of migrants. Mamata Banerjee announced that her government would provide legal support to affected families and, if needed, approach the courts to secure justice.
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She also urged the Prime Minister to intervene and take concrete steps to prevent such incidents in the future. “This is not just an issue of politics; it is about the dignity and identity of every Bengali living in India,” she said.
Political Implications
This protest comes at a politically charged time, with national and state elections looming on the horizon. By leading from the front, Mamata Banerjee is aiming to galvanize support not only in West Bengal but also among Bengalis living across the country. Her party is expected to continue raising this issue in Parliament and on national platforms in the coming weeks.
The protest has also intensified the ongoing political rivalry between the TMC and the BJP, with the former accusing the latter of divisive politics and the latter dismissing the accusations as theatrics.
Conclusion
Mamata Banerjee’s protest marks a significant moment in the defense of regional identity and migrant rights in India. As the debate over citizenship, identity, and migration continues to stir political discourse, this demonstration serves as a reminder of the deep sensitivities surrounding linguistic and cultural pride in Indian society. The coming days will reveal whether this movement gains further momentum and results in tangible action from the central government.
