What Controversy Surrounds CM Mamata Banerjee's 'Second Language Movement'?
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Synopsis
West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee's announcement to protest the alleged mistreatment of Bengali speakers in BJP-ruled states has sparked sharp criticism from opposition parties. This article explores the historical context of the 'Bhasha Andolan', the political implications of her actions, and the responses from various political leaders.
Key Takeaways
- Mamata Banerjee announces protests against treatment of Bengali speakers.
- Criticism arises from opposition parties like BJP, CPI-M, and Congress.
- The historical context of 'Bhasha Andolan' is significant.
- Concerns about job losses and illegal immigration are raised.
- Political tensions in West Bengal are evident.
Kolkata, July 21 (NationPress) The announcement by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to initiate weekend protests against the supposed mistreatment of Bengali-speaking individuals in BJP-led states, which she has termed as another "Bhasha Andolon" (Language Movement), has drawn criticism from various opposition factions, including BJP, CPI-M, and Congress.
Historically, the "Bhasha Andolan" was a pivotal political movement in what was formerly East Pakistan, advocating for the acknowledgment of the Bengali language as an official language. This movement was crucial in the formation of Bangladesh as an independent nation following the liberation of East Pakistan in 1971.
The Leader of the Opposition and BJP figure, Suvendu Adhikari, asserted that the Chief Minister's announcement reveals her agenda to support illegal Rohingya and Bangladeshi infiltrators.
He has also urged the Election Commission of India (ECI) to take action against the Trinamool Congress for allegedly endorsing these infiltrators.
“No Rohingya or Bangladeshi Muslim should be part of the voters' list. We cannot condone their inclusion. The ECI should revoke the registration of the Trinamool Congress for this support. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee relies on these infiltrators for electoral success,” Adhikari stated.
The BJP's State President and Rajya Sabha member, Samik Bhattacharya, emphasized that rather than safeguarding the interests of native Bengali-speaking Muslims, the Chief Minister prioritizes protecting Bengali-speaking illegal immigrants from Bangladesh.
“Bengali-speaking Indian Muslims in West Bengal are losing employment opportunities to Bangladeshi Muslims who have entered the country unlawfully. Authentic Bengali-speaking individuals are migrating out of West Bengal seeking jobs, often mistaken for Bangladeshi Muslims. Who is accountable for this? Illegal Rohingyas are being accommodated in West Bengal. Fake job and voter cards are issued to them. The ECI is deleting these fraudulent voters, yet Mamata Banerjee supports them for her electoral gains,” Bhattacharya commented.
BJP's IT Cell Chief and central observer for West Bengal, Amit Malviya, asserted that Mamata Banerjee's speech reflected her fear that the ECI's special intensive revision (SIR) will be properly executed, which could lead to the Trinamool Congress's downfall in the 2026 state elections.
“As usual, Mamata Banerjee resorts to deception and fear tactics, discussing detention camps and imaginary plots. The reality is that she knows her reign of terror is concluding. The plight of Bengal's citizens, especially women, will lead to her downfall,” Malviya's statement read.
Senior CPI-M leader and central committee member, Sujan Chakraborty, ridiculed Mamata Banerjee for proclaiming a 'Bhasha Andolan' to combat the BJP.
“By labeling her struggle against the harassment of Bengali-speaking individuals as 'Bhasha Andolan', Mamata Banerjee diminishes the significance of the true Bhasha Andolan. Not every battle warrants the title of a language movement,” Chakraborty argued.
Another CPI-M central committee member, Minakshi Mukherjee, stated that Mamata Banerjee is responsible for the distress faced by Bengali-speaking individuals, as many have migrated during her leadership.
“Has the Trinamool Congress government taken any steps to uphold the dignity of the Bengali language and its speakers? Migrant workers from Bengal are being targeted in Assam and elsewhere. Who bears the blame? Why can’t her government secure jobs for them? She cannot erase her government's failures in providing proper livelihoods for Bengali speakers,” Mukherjee remarked.
State Congress spokesperson, Soumya Aich Roy, suggested that Mamata Banerjee should focus on halting the migration of Bengali people from West Bengal caused by the lack of jobs and industries before leveraging Bengali sentiments.
“Mamata Banerjee is attempting to exploit Bengali sentiment by referencing 'Bhasha Andolan'. Instead, she must create job opportunities to stop this migration,” he concluded.
Point of View
It’s essential to recognize the implications of Mamata Banerjee's announcement regarding the 'Bhasha Andolan'. While it resonates with cultural sentiments, the backlash from opposition parties illustrates a deep political divide in West Bengal. The concerns raised about illegal immigration and job losses for local Bengali speakers cannot be ignored. Thus, it is vital to approach this situation with a balanced viewpoint, prioritizing the voices of the affected communities.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Bhasha Andolan'?
The 'Bhasha Andolan' refers to a historical movement advocating for the recognition of the Bengali language, notably leading to the formation of Bangladesh in 1971.
Why is Mamata Banerjee facing criticism?
Critics argue that her announcement of a new 'Bhasha Andolan' is politically motivated and serves to support illegal immigrants rather than addressing the concerns of Bengali speakers.
What do opposition leaders claim?
Opposition leaders, particularly from BJP, claim that Mamata Banerjee's actions prioritize illegal infiltrators over the interests of native Bengali-speaking citizens.
How has the public reacted?
The public response has been mixed, with some supporting Banerjee's stance while others echo the opposition's concerns about job losses and migration.
What historical context does this have?
The controversy ties back to the original Bhasha Andolan, which was crucial for the recognition of Bengali and the subsequent independence of Bangladesh.
