West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday strongly criticised the BJP, accusing it of threatening Bengali-speaking citizens in Assam and pursuing a divisive agenda.
In a post on X, Banerjee said:
“The second most spoken language in the country, Bangla, is also the second most spoken language of Assam. To threaten citizens, who want to coexist peacefully respecting all languages and religions, with persecution for upholding their own mother tongue is discriminatory and unconstitutional. This divisive agenda of the BJP in Assam has crossed all limits and people of Assam will fight back. I stand with every fearless citizen who is fighting for the dignity of their language and identity, and their democratic rights.”
The second most spoken language in the country, Bangla, is also the second most spoken language of Assam.
To threaten citizens, who want to coexist peacefully respecting all languages and religions, with persecution for upholding their own mother tongue is discriminatory and…
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) July 19, 2025
Her statement came a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited West Bengal and addressed a rally at Durgapur. Beginning his speech with chants of “Jai Maa Kali” and “Jai Maa Durga,” Modi sought to connect with the Bengali sentiment, declaring BJP as the only party that truly respects and protects Bengali ashmita (pride).
Highlighting the BJP’s developmental plans for the state, Modi unveiled projects worth around ₹5,400 crore and urged people to vote out the Trinamool Congress government, calling it “corrupt and non-performing.”
“Bikoshito Bangla Modir Guarantee (Developed Bengal is Modi’s Guarantee),” he asserted, promising rapid progress if BJP is given a chance.
“When this barrier (TMC) falls, Bengal will rapidly progress on the path of development. Bengal will play a very important role in our goal to achieve Vikshit Bharat,” he added, pointing to the BJP’s governance in Assam, Tripura, and Odisha as examples of development.
Modi concluded with an appeal: “So, give BJP a chance for once. Those who are honest, efficient and courageous. Developed Bengal is Modi’s guarantee. Developed Bengal is BJP’s resolve.”
The contrasting statements from Banerjee and Modi underscore the heated political contest and linguistic identity debate ahead of the next elections in West Bengal and the Northeast.
