Will Matua Voters Lose Their Rights? PM Modi Assures Citizenship Under CAA in Bengal
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Synopsis
Prime Minister Modi addressed concerns regarding the Matua community's voting rights in West Bengal, promising protection and citizenship under the CAA. This pledge highlights the BJP's commitment to their development amidst political tensions. The rally in Malda reveals Modi's criticisms of the Trinamool Congress, focusing on issues of infiltration and social justice.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi reassures Matua community about voting rights and citizenship.
- BJP's commitment to the development of religious refugees emphasized.
- Criticism of Trinamool Congress regarding illegal infiltration.
- Focus on social justice and protection of underprivileged communities.
- Potential implications for West Bengal's political landscape.
Kolkata, Jan 17 (NationPress) On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the claims made by the Trinamool Congress regarding the potential loss of voting rights for members of the Matua community in West Bengal due to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. He emphasized that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is steadfast in its commitment to safeguard the voting rights of the Matuas and other religious refugees in the state, while also promoting their long-term development.
"I urge the Matua community, along with those who have migrated to West Bengal from neighboring countries due to religious persecution, to remain unafraid. I assure you that your interests will be defended and citizenship will be provided through the Citizenship Amendment Act. Should the BJP gain control in West Bengal, we will prioritize the social advancement of the Matuas and other marginalized groups," stated the Prime Minister during a rally in Malda district.
The Matuas are refugees from socially marginalized backgrounds in Bangladesh who have settled in various regions throughout West Bengal, particularly in Nadia and North 24 Parganas districts.
Since the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP has established a robust presence in areas predominantly inhabited by the Matua community.
During his speech, he sharply criticized the Trinamool Congress, accusing them of facilitating illegal immigration from Bangladesh.
"West Bengal's greatest challenge is infiltration. Even affluent nations are expelling illegal immigrants. Shouldn't we do the same in West Bengal? Yet, is this achievable under a government led by the Trinamool Congress, which has exploited voter infiltration over the years? They deprive the underprivileged of their rights.
"They take away job opportunities from the youth. They have oppressed our women. They are fostering terrorism and violence within our nation. The demographic balance is at stake. Violence is escalating in numerous areas such as Malda and Murshidabad. The coalition of infiltrators and those in power must be dismantled. If the BJP ascends to power, significant actions will be taken against illegal immigrants," PM Modi declared.
Point of View
PM Modi's address reflects a strategic move to consolidate support among the Matua community, crucial for the BJP's electoral success in Bengal. His emphasis on citizenship rights under the CAA and critique of the Trinamool Congress underscores ongoing political rivalries. The situation remains complex, as it intertwines issues of social justice and electoral strategies.
NationPress
17/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA)?
The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) is a law that provides a pathway to Indian citizenship for non-Muslim religious minorities from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan who entered India before December 31, 2014.
Why are the Matuas significant in West Bengal?
The Matuas are a community of refugees from Bangladesh who have settled in West Bengal, playing a crucial role in the state's electoral dynamics due to their significant population in key districts.
What concerns did PM Modi address regarding the Trinamool Congress?
PM Modi accused the Trinamool Congress of facilitating illegal immigration and failing to protect the rights of the underprivileged, framing the BJP as the party committed to social justice.
What impact has the BJP had on Matua-dominated areas?
Since the 2019 elections, the BJP has strengthened its presence in Matua-dominated regions, aiming to secure their support through promises of development and rights protection.
How does the issue of infiltration affect West Bengal?
Infiltration poses challenges to West Bengal's demographic balance, leading to political tensions and fears of job loss and social unrest among the local population.
