TMC Steps Up Attack on Amit Shah, Calls Him “Tourist” Amid Cultural Row in Bengal

The All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), led by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, on Thursday intensified its criticism of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, describing him as a “tourist” ahead of his proposed extended visit to the state.

In a pointed remark, the party said West Bengal “welcomes tourists with open arms,” while also suggesting that Shah sample a range of traditional Bengali delicacies during his stay. These included Muri Ghonto, Pabda Macher Jhal, Ilish Bhapa, Chingri Malai Curry, Bhetki Paturi, and Kosha Mangsho.

The comments form part of the TMC’s broader political strategy to portray Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders as “outsiders” who are disconnected from Bengal’s cultural identity. The party has repeatedly alleged that a BJP government could impose restrictions on local dietary practices, particularly the consumption and sale of fish and meat.

Cultural Identity at the Centre of Political Contest

With assembly elections approaching, the issue has gained political traction. The TMC has sought to link the BJP with policies it claims may adversely affect traditional livelihoods and food habits in the state.

The controversy was triggered after senior TMC leaders, including Mamata Banerjee, criticised what they described as a BJP-backed move against non-vegetarian food practices. The remarks were linked to a recent directive issued by the Bihar government regulating the open sale of meat.

Addressing a public rally in Purulia, Banerjee termed such measures “anti-people” and raised concerns over their potential economic impact. She questioned the practicality of restricting meat and fish sales to licensed indoor establishments, noting that a majority of vendors rely on open markets for their livelihood.

Livelihood Concerns Highlighted

Banerjee further warned that similar restrictions could be introduced in West Bengal if the BJP were to come to power. She argued that limiting sales to formal retail spaces would disproportionately affect small-scale vendors, many of whom depend on daily earnings from street-based trade.

Emphasising the cultural significance of fish and meat in Bengali cuisine, she described such policy approaches as detrimental to both livelihoods and local traditions.

The exchange underscores the sharpening political rhetoric in the run-up to the elections, with cultural identity and economic concerns emerging as key battlegrounds between the TMC and the BJP.