Did the Odisha government really arrest any Bengalis?
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Synopsis
The Odisha government insists that no Bengali-speaking individuals from West Bengal have been arrested under suspicions of illegal immigration. This statement comes amidst rising tensions and protests led by West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee against alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking people in BJP-ruled states. The situation raises questions about identity verification practices.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha government denies arrests of Bengali-speaking individuals.
- Detentions were for identity verification, not arrests.
- West Bengal government questions selective targeting of Bengalis.
- Protests planned by Trinamool Congress against alleged harassment.
- Historical context of Bhasha Andolon relates to language rights.
Kolkata, July 23 (NationPress) The Odisha government stated to the Calcutta High Court that no Bengali-speaking Indian from West Bengal has been arrested by the state police over fears of them being illegal Bangladeshi immigrants. The legal representative for Odisha clarified to the division bench, comprising Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty and Justice Reetobrata Kumar Mitra, that certain individuals were merely detained to ascertain their status as legitimate Indian citizens.
The division bench instructed the Odisha government to formalize this verbal statement through an affidavit to be presented to the court. The case is scheduled for further hearing on August 28, by which time the Odisha government is required to file the affidavit.
Additionally, Odisha's Advocate General, Pitambar Acharya, informed the court that these identity checks were conducted under the Foreigners Act.
He stressed that since Bengalis share close ties with the people of Odisha, it is imperative to avoid unnecessary disputes on this issue. “We are not anti-Bengali,” he asserted, noting that numerous Bengalis reside in Odisha and that the current Chief Justice of Odisha High Court was previously a judge in Calcutta High Court.
In a counterargument, West Bengal's government counsel and Trinamool Congress MP, Kalyan Banerjee, questioned whether individuals from other communities, such as Tamil or Gujarati, were also subjected to similar verification processes. “Why were only Bengali-speaking individuals singled out?” he demanded, emphasizing the need for clarity regarding the underlying suspicions.
Recently, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her Trinamool party have been vociferous about the alleged mistreatment of Bengali-speaking individuals in various BJP-ruled states, specifically implicating the Odisha and Assam governments in this issue.
During a rally commemorating Martyrs’ Day in Kolkata, Banerjee announced that her party would initiate weekend protests against the purported harassment of Bengali-speaking individuals in BJP-led states starting July 27.
She referred to this campaign as another “Bhasha Andolon (Language Movement)”, echoing the historical movement in what was once East Pakistan, advocating for the Bengali language's recognition as an official language, which ultimately contributed to the formation of Bangladesh in 1971.
Point of View
I believe this situation underscores the delicate balance required in managing inter-state relations. The focus should remain on ensuring that all citizens, regardless of linguistic background, are treated fairly while also addressing legitimate security concerns. Open dialogue and collaboration between states are essential to maintain peace and unity.
NationPress
23/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason behind the detentions?
The detentions were conducted to verify the identity and citizenship status of certain individuals under the provisions of the Foreigners Act.
How is the West Bengal government responding?
The West Bengal government, represented by MP Kalyan Banerjee, has expressed concerns about the selective targeting of Bengali-speaking individuals and is demanding clarification on the suspicions.
What actions are being taken by the Trinamool Congress?
The Trinamool Congress, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, is planning weekend protests against the alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking individuals in BJP-ruled states.
What historical context is referenced in this situation?
The term 'Bhasha Andolon' refers to a historical movement advocating for the Bengali language, which played a pivotal role in the formation of Bangladesh.
What is the next step in this legal matter?
The Calcutta High Court has directed the Odisha government to submit an affidavit detailing their stance by August 28.
