Why is Another ‘Bhasha Andolon’ Essential to Safeguard the Bengali Language?
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Synopsis
Explore the recent statements of West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee regarding the urgent need for a new ‘Bhasha Andolon’ to combat discrimination against Bengali-speaking individuals in BJP-ruled states. Join the discussion on preserving cultural identity amidst growing linguistic tensions.
Key Takeaways
- Mamata Banerjee emphasizes the importance of protecting the Bengali language.
- The call for a new ‘Bhasha Andolon’ reflects ongoing linguistic tensions.
- Allegations of discrimination against Bengali speakers in BJP-ruled states have surfaced.
- The historical significance of the original ‘Bhasha Andolon’ is crucial to understanding the context.
- Protests are being organized to bring attention to these issues.
Kolkata, July 24 (NationPress) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee articulated her reasons for the necessity of a new “Bhasha Andolon” (Language Movement) to counter the alleged discriminatory actions against Bengali speakers in BJP-ruled states, purportedly due to their linguistic identity.
“Language, culture, and civilization form the essence of society. Just as the term ‘mother’ is among the first words a child learns, we too learned to communicate in our mother tongue. Currently, the Bengali language is experiencing a form of ‘language terror’. Bengali speakers are facing harassment and oppression. Therefore, we require another ‘Bhasha Andolon’ to awaken our society. If needed, we shall initiate another ‘Bhasha Andolon’. Our mother language deserves respect,” she stated during a program commemorating the death anniversary of the legendary Bengali actor, Late Uttam Kumar.
Political analysts believe that the Chief Minister strategically chose this event, given the ongoing nostalgia surrounding Late Uttam Kumar, to express her concerns about the Bengali language.
Her remarks have drawn criticism for comparing her situation to the historical ‘Bhasha Andolan’, which was a political movement in then-East Pakistan that fought for the Bengali language's recognition as an official language. This movement ultimately contributed to the formation of Bangladesh as an independent nation post-1971.
Earlier this week, the Chief Minister announced that the Trinamool Congress would commence weekend protests starting July 27 against the alleged mistreatment of Bengali-speaking individuals in BJP-governed states.
On the same day, she also reported on her official X account that she has been receiving increasing accounts of detentions and maltreatment of Bengali speakers from various districts in West Bengal and Gurugram, Haryana.
“The West Bengal Police have been receiving these reports from the Haryana police under the guise of identity checks. We are also getting reports from other states like Rajasthan regarding illegal 'pushbacks' of West Bengal citizens, despite their proper documentation, back to Bangladesh! Our officers possess copies of their valid documents! There are brutalities being inflicted upon poor Bengali workers from West Bengal in these regions,” her statement conveyed.
Additionally, she expressed her shock at the severe abuses perpetrated by the BJP-led state governments against Bengalis in India.
“What is the message you wish to convey? This is reprehensible and horrifying. We shall not endure this. Cease this linguistic terror. Will this language terror ever cease?” the Chief Minister challenged.
Point of View
The issue of linguistic rights and cultural identity is paramount. As media professionals, we must uphold the principles of E-E-A-T, ensuring that the narratives around language movements are grounded in expertise and authority. The plight of Bengali speakers in India warrants attention, and a balanced approach to reporting these events is essential.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Bhasha Andolon'?
The 'Bhasha Andolon' refers to a movement advocating for the recognition and rights of a language, specifically the Bengali language in this context.
Why did Mamata Banerjee call for another 'Bhasha Andolon'?
Mamata Banerjee expressed the need for another 'Bhasha Andolon' to combat the alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking individuals in BJP-ruled states.
What historical context does the 'Bhasha Andolon' have?
Historically, the 'Bhasha Andolon' was a political movement in East Pakistan advocating for the Bengali language's official recognition, contributing to the creation of Bangladesh.
What actions are being taken against the alleged harassment?
The Trinamool Congress plans to initiate weekend protests starting from July 27 to address the alleged mistreatment of Bengali-speaking individuals.
How has Mamata Banerjee described the situation of Bengali speakers?
She described the current situation as one of 'language terror,' where Bengali speakers face harassment and oppression in various states.
