What Caused the Rift in Bengal BJP After Dilip Ghosh's Attendance at the CM's Jagannath Temple Event?
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Synopsis
Internal conflicts in the West Bengal BJP intensify as Dilip Ghosh criticizes colleagues post Lord Jagannath temple inauguration. Tensions rise amidst political maneuvering and historical references.
Key Takeaways
- Internal divisions are escalating within the West Bengal BJP.
- Dilip Ghosh publicly criticized colleagues following his temple visit.
- Ghosh's comments hint at deeper political rivalries.
- The temple inauguration coincided with a significant religious rally.
- Historical political alliances were referenced to underscore changing dynamics.
Kolkata, May 1 (NationPress) Internal rifts within the West Bengal faction of the BJP have deepened as senior leader and former state president Dilip Ghosh publicly condemned his peers for their criticisms following his presence at the inauguration of the Lord Jagannath temple in Digha, located in East Midnapore district.
He was accompanied by his newly-wedded wife, Rinku Ghosh, at the event on Wednesday.
While Ghosh refrained from naming specific individuals, it was evident he was addressing the Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, who organized a significant religious rally for “Sanatani” Hindus in Contai, also in East Midnapore, on the same day as the temple inauguration.
Instead of attending the rally, which was a mere 35 kilometers away, Ghosh opted for the temple inauguration, which is reportedly designed after the renowned Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha. Alongside his wife, Ghosh engaged amicably with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee within the temple grounds, and images of their interaction have circulated widely on social media.
On Thursday morning, Ghosh spoke to the media, indirectly criticizing Adhikari's former association with the Trinamool Congress prior to his switch to the BJP.
“Those who are engaging in grand speeches now once thrived under the guidance of Mamata Banerjee. Those who now benefit from the BJP's leftovers previously survived on the remnants of the Trinamool Congress. Those relying on scraps are now attempting to evaluate my worth,” Ghosh stated.
Adhikari, a two-time Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha member and former West Bengal Transport Minister, joined the BJP before the 2021 West Bengal Assembly elections. He won the Nandigram Assembly seat in East Midnapore, defeating the then Trinamool Congress candidate and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
While Ghosh's comments were aimed at Adhikari, he also reminisced about the positive rapport between Mamata Banerjee and the late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee when the Trinamool Congress was allied with the BJP under the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
“Vajpayee-ji, during his tenure, visited Mamata Banerjee’s home and showed his respect to her mother. Mamata Banerjee was with us then, and there’s no justification for viewing her as an adversary now,” Ghosh remarked.
This criticism arises even though Adhikari chose to remain silent on the matter on Wednesday, despite repeated inquiries from media representatives.
“I will refrain from commenting on this issue. Today, I will focus solely on the Hindu religion. As the Leader of Opposition, my responses will solely pertain to the Chief Minister's actions or statements,” Adhikari mentioned.
Point of View
It’s imperative to approach the unfolding situation within the West Bengal BJP with neutrality. The dynamics between Ghosh and Adhikari reflect not just personal rivalries, but broader implications for the party's cohesion and strategy in a politically charged environment. The narrative is crucial for understanding the evolving landscape of state politics.
NationPress
01/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the conflict within the Bengal BJP?
The conflict was triggered by Dilip Ghosh's attendance at the Lord Jagannath temple inauguration, which led to criticisms from his colleagues, notably aimed at Suvendu Adhikari.
Who is Dilip Ghosh?
Dilip Ghosh is a senior leader and former president of the West Bengal BJP, known for his outspoken political views.
What was the significance of the temple event?
The inauguration of the Lord Jagannath temple is significant as it represents a cultural and religious milestone, coinciding with political activities in the region.
How did Suvendu Adhikari respond to Ghosh's criticisms?
Suvendu Adhikari refrained from commenting on the situation, stating he would focus solely on Hindu religious matters.
What historical context did Ghosh reference?
Ghosh referenced the past relationship between Mamata Banerjee and former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, highlighting a time of collaboration.
