Majumdar Accuses Mamata of ‘Bangladesh-Like’ Governance Amid Waqf Act Protests

Kolkata, India, April 14, 2025 – Union Minister and West Bengal BJP President Sukanta Majumdar has publicly criticized Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Bapi Halder for inflammatory remarks made during a public gathering in South 24 Parganas, where Halder allegedly threatened to “gouge out eyes and break hands.” Majumdar demanded clarity on actions taken by the West Bengal Police against the TMC MP, questioning the state’s response to the provocative statement.

Majumdar also addressed recent unrest in Murshidabad, labeling protesters as “fanatical, fundamentalist jihadi groups” and alleging their demonstrations against the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 were a pretext for violence. The protests, which erupted in Murshidabad, resulted in three fatalities, according to police reports on Saturday.

The West Bengal Police have arrested 150 individuals linked to the violence, with additional forces deployed in Samserganj, Dhuliyan, Suti, and surrounding areas to restore order. A police statement confirmed that the situation is being closely monitored to prevent further escalation.

On Sunday, Majumdar intensified his critique of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, asserting that her governance has failed to ensure safety for Hindu residents in Murshidabad. “While central forces have brought some stability, the environment remains unconducive for Hindus to live with dignity,” he stated, noting that displaced residents who sought refuge in Malda are reluctant to return.

Majumdar further accused Banerjee of transforming West Bengal into a “light version of Bangladesh,” a remark underscoring his broader concerns about the state’s socio-political climate. He expressed gratitude to the Calcutta High Court’s special bench for ordering the deployment of central forces, which he credited with partially stabilizing the region.

Looking ahead to the upcoming Assembly elections, Majumdar called for unity among the Hindu community to “fight democratically” and prevent West Bengal from mirroring Bangladesh’s challenges. He pledged that a BJP-led government would introduce stringent measures against perpetrators of communal violence, including laws to hold rioters financially accountable for damages to Hindu properties and temples. “Those who incite violence from religious sites will face closure of such places,” he added, promising legislative support if the current government proposes similar measures.

The developments highlight ongoing tensions in West Bengal, with the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 continuing to fuel debate and unrest in parts of the state.