Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent address at a public rally in Krishnanagar, Nadia, West Bengal, has set off a flurry of political debate, particularly regarding his criticism of the INDI alliance comprising the Trinamool Congress (TMC), Congress, and Left parties.
In a charged speech, PM Modi took aim at the INDI alliance, accusing them of indulging in what he termed as “appeasement politics.” He asserted, “The INDI alliance, consisting of TMC, Congress, and Left, knows only one thing, and that is appeasement.” Modi’s remarks underscored the BJP’s narrative of opposition parties prioritizing minority appeasement over broader governance issues.
Expanding his critique, Modi delved into the historical context of India’s partition, squarely blaming the Congress for the religious division of the country. “What was the fault of Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, Sikhs, and Jains who were left on the other side of the border?” Modi questioned, invoking historical grievances and questioning the Congress party’s role in India’s tumultuous past.
Furthermore, PM Modi lamented the neglect of communities left behind post-partition, alleging that despite promises made during independence, they were abandoned. This, he argued, necessitated the BJP’s enactment of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).
The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), passed by the Indian Parliament in 2019, aims to provide citizenship to persecuted minorities from neighboring countries who entered India before 2015. However, the act has faced criticism for allegedly discriminating against Muslims, sparking widespread protests and debates across the country.
PM Modi’s remarks come amidst heightened political tensions in West Bengal, a state witnessing a fierce electoral battle between the BJP and the ruling TMC. The rally in Krishnanagar is part of the BJP’s concerted efforts to consolidate its position in the state, where it has been steadily gaining ground in recent years.
The Prime Minister’s speech has reignited discussions on issues of religious identity and citizenship, further polarizing the political landscape in West Bengal. As the state gears up for crucial elections, the reactions of the TMC, Congress, and Left parties to Modi’s allegations are anticipated to shape the contours of the electoral discourse in the days ahead.
