Is PM Modi Launching BJP's Campaign to Address Matua Citizenship Concerns on Dec 20?
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Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is gearing up for a pivotal rally in Ranaghat, West Bengal, on December 20. This event marks the BJP's strategic move to address the contentious citizenship issues faced by the Matua community, countering the criticisms from Trinamool Congress. As elections approach, the significance of this campaign cannot be understated.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi to launch BJP’s campaign in Ranaghat.
- Focus on Matua community’s citizenship concerns.
- Countering Trinamool Congress allegations.
- Significant voter base in Nadia and North 24 Parganas.
- Early campaign signals BJP’s ambition for 2026 elections.
Kolkata, Dec 5 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch the BJP’s extensive campaign aimed at countering the Trinamool Congress regarding the controversial citizenship matter pertaining to the Matua community. This significant rally will take place in Ranaghat, located in the Nadia district of West Bengal later this month.
The Trinamool Congress has raised concerns that many individuals from the Matua community may face the risk of losing their voting rights due to the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) being conducted by the Election Commission of India (ECI). This situation could potentially lead to a loss of their citizenship.
A member from the state committee of West Bengal BJP has announced that December 20 is the provisional date for the grand rally in Ranaghat, one of the two primary strongholds of the Matua community in the state, with the other being Bangaon in the North 24 Parganas district.
Notably, the current Lok Sabha representative from the Ranaghat constituency is Jagannath Sarkar from the BJP, who has won election twice from this area — first in 2019 and then again in 2024.
The Matua community comprises members of a socially disadvantaged Hindu group who migrated to West Bengal as religious refugees from nearby Bangladesh over time. They represent a significant portion of the electorate in the two districts of West Bengal that border Bangladesh — North 24 Parganas and Nadia.
Since the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, a considerable segment of the Matua voters has consistently supported the BJP in every election.
Political analysts believe that for the BJP to achieve its ambitions of gaining power in West Bengal following the upcoming Assembly elections scheduled for next year, it is crucial to have candidates elected from the constituencies predominantly populated by Matuas, especially in Nadia and North 24 Parganas.
“This is likely the reason behind their choice of Ranaghat as the site for the mega rally, from where the Prime Minister will commence the party’s counter-campaign against the Trinamool Congress’s claims regarding the SIR’s effect on the Matua electorate,” remarked a local political analyst.
Moreover, observers note that the BJP’s early initiation of the election campaign, especially with the involvement of the Prime Minister, indicates that their recent assertion “After Odisha in 2024 and Bihar in 2025, it will be West Bengal in 2026,” following a significant victory in Bihar this year, is not merely rhetoric.
Point of View
It's essential to observe that the upcoming rally led by PM Modi signifies a crucial point in the BJP's strategy to reclaim influence in West Bengal. The focus on the Matua community highlights the ongoing political tug-of-war and the implications it holds for the upcoming elections. The situation requires careful monitoring as it could significantly impact voter sentiment across the state.
NationPress
05/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Matua community's significance in West Bengal?
The Matua community, comprising socially disadvantaged Hindus who migrated from Bangladesh, constitutes a significant voter base in West Bengal, particularly in districts bordering Bangladesh.
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is an initiative by the Election Commission of India aimed at updating and verifying the electoral rolls, which may impact voter rights.
Why is the BJP focusing on the Matua community?
The BJP aims to secure electoral support from the Matua community, which has shown substantial backing for the party in recent elections, as part of their broader strategy to regain power in West Bengal.
When is the rally scheduled to take place?
The rally is tentatively scheduled for December 20 in Ranaghat, which is a key area for the Matua community.
How does this rally impact the upcoming Assembly elections?
This rally is a strategic move for the BJP to consolidate support among Matua voters ahead of the Assembly elections, highlighting the importance of the community in the electoral landscape.
