Should PM Modi Apologize for His 'Bankim-Da' Remarks?
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Synopsis
In a heated exchange, Mamata Banerjee criticizes PM Modi for his misstep in addressing Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay. The fallout reveals deeper tensions and accusations of anti-Bengali sentiment within the BJP. This article delves into the implications of Modi's comments and Banerjee's response.
Key Takeaways
- Mamata Banerjee demands an apology from PM Modi over cultural insults.
- The incident highlights the significance of Bengali cultural icons.
- The controversy reflects ongoing political tensions between BJP and Trinamool Congress.
Kolkata, Dec 9 (NationPress) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee vehemently criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday regarding his unintended reference to Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, the esteemed composer of Vande Mataram and an iconic Bengali poet, as 'Bankim Da' during his address in Parliament.
Though the Prime Minister quickly corrected himself, stating he would refer to Chattopadhyay as 'Bankim Babu', Banerjee persisted in her condemnation of Modi while speaking at an anti-Special Intensive Revision (SIR) rally in Cooch Behar.
“Calling Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay 'Bankim-Da' is utterly inappropriate. It diminishes the honor of a national figure to the level of a casual acquaintance, like 'Shyam-Da' or 'Hari-da'. Such a slight against the author of our National Song is intolerable; he must apologize. Even then, this blunder is inexcusable. He has disrespected our nation's culture and history,” the Chief Minister asserted.
She further accused the BJP of routinely disrespecting celebrated Bengali figures, including Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Khudiram Basu, and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar.
This marks the second day running that Banerjee has launched a tirade against Modi over the 'Bankim-Da' controversy.
On Monday, prior to her trip to Cooch Behar, she remarked to reporters at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport that it was Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore who recognized the segment of Vande Mataram as our National Song.
“The BJP has objections to everything. Sometimes they criticize Gurudev, and at other times they oppose Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose,” she commented on Monday.
The 'Bankim-Da' issue has enabled Banerjee to reinforce her longstanding accusations against the BJP of harboring an anti-Bengali sentiment.
Since Monday, several leaders from the Trinamool Congress have asserted that Modi's 'Bankim-Da' comments are indicative of the typical anti-Bengali attitudes prevalent among BJP leaders.
While commemorating the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram in the Lok Sabha on Monday, PM Modi directed a pointed critique at the Congress, claiming that they once fragmented the national song under pressure from the Muslim League and “yielded to them.”
He stated, “As we celebrate 150 years of Vande Mataram, we must educate future generations about the truth - that the Congress once divided this hymn, bowing to the Muslim League and its enduring appeasement policy. This must never happen again,” urging Parliament to restore pride in a song that once united the nation against colonial rule.
Point of View
This incident highlights the complexities of regional identity in Indian politics. Mamata Banerjee's criticism of PM Modi underscores the sensitivity surrounding cultural figures. While political leaders may unintentionally offend, the repercussions can resonate deeply within communities. As such, it is crucial for leaders to exercise caution in their speech, given the powerful symbolism of historical figures in the national narrative.
NationPress
11/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Mamata Banerjee criticize PM Modi?
Mamata Banerjee criticized PM Modi for referring to Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay as 'Bankim Da', which she deemed disrespectful to the legendary poet and the nation's cultural heritage.
What did PM Modi say about Vande Mataram?
During the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, PM Modi claimed that the Congress had previously divided the song under pressure from the Muslim League, highlighting the need for restoring pride in this national hymn.
What is the significance of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay?
Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay is revered as the composer of Vande Mataram and a prominent figure in Bengali literature, symbolizing national pride and cultural identity.
