Is a Protester from the 2024 Bangladesh Student Uprising a Voter in Bengal? ECI Orders Investigation
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Synopsis
The Election Commission of India has initiated an investigation into Newton Das, a registered voter in Kakdwip, who was involved in the Bangladesh student protests. Allegations of dual citizenship have sparked controversy, raising significant political implications in West Bengal.
Key Takeaways
- ECI orders investigation into dual citizenship claims.
- Newton Das has been a voter since 2014.
- His involvement in the Bangladeshi student movement raises controversy.
- Political implications for the Trinamool Congress and BJP.
- Calls for voter integrity in electoral processes.
Kolkata, June 10 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has instructed the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal to investigate the case of a man who was involved in the student protests in Bangladesh last year and is listed as a registered voter in the Kakdwip Assembly constituency in South 24 Parganas district.
The issue gained attention after several whistleblowers uncovered a photo of Newton Das, a registered voter from Kakdwip, who participated in the student movement in Bangladesh last year, circulating on social media.
These whistleblowers have also alleged that Das possesses dual citizenship of both India and Bangladesh.
In response, Das has refuted the claims regarding his Bangladeshi citizenship but acknowledged his participation in the students’ movement during his visit.
He stated that he has been a voter in the Kakdwip Assembly constituency since 2014 and voted in the Lok Sabha elections that same year.
According to Das, he traveled to Bangladesh in 2024 to resolve issues concerning his ancestral property, during which he became engaged with the student movement.
He mentioned losing his EPIC card, issued in 2014, in 2017, and receiving a replacement in 2018 with assistance from the local Trinamool Congress MLA, Manturam Pakhira.
However, complications arose when one of his cousins, also a registered voter in Kakdwip, claimed that Newton holds voter cards in both India and Bangladesh.
The BJP's West Bengal unit has raised significant concerns over this matter, arguing that Newton’s situation supports their longstanding accusations against the Trinamool Congress and the state administration for allegedly including Bangladeshi nationals in the voter rolls.
In light of the escalating controversy, the ECI has mandated a thorough investigation by the CEO's office in West Bengal.
Point of View
It is crucial to remain objective while reporting on matters of public interest. The investigation into Newton Das underscores the importance of ensuring electoral integrity while considering the complexities of citizenship and political participation in a diverse nation like India.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Newton Das?
Newton Das is a registered voter in the Kakdwip Assembly constituency who was involved in the student protests in Bangladesh last year.
What allegations have been made against him?
There are allegations that Newton Das holds dual citizenship in India and Bangladesh.
What has the ECI done about this issue?
The Election Commission of India has ordered a probe into the matter through the Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal.
Why is this investigation significant?
This investigation is significant as it raises questions about voter integrity and the inclusion of foreign nationals in the electoral rolls.
What is the political reaction to this situation?
The BJP has raised concerns that Newton Das's case validates their claims about the Trinamool Congress enlisting Bangladeshi nationals in the voter list.
