Kolkata witnessed a significant political move on Tuesday as Union Home Minister Amit Shah instructed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leadership in West Bengal to actively counter Trinamool Congress (TMC) propaganda targeting the Matua community.
The direction comes amid ongoing concerns over voter rights during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in the state.
At a press conference, Amit Shah reassured the Matua community that authorities would fully protect the voting rights of individuals who have applied for citizenship under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA).
Following the press briefing, he met with the core state leadership of the BJP, instructing them to consistently challenge TMC narratives that aim to instil fear among Matua voters.
State BJP officials confirmed that Shah emphasised the importance of organising regular engagement programmes with the community to clarify misconceptions and alleviate concerns about their electoral rights.
“As regards the formalities about those submitting applications for citizenship under the CAA, the Union Home Minister has assured us of looking into the matter personally,” said a BJP state committee member.
Political Background
The Matua community, primarily settled in Nadia and North 24 Parganas districts, comprises socially backward refugees who migrated from Bangladesh.
Since the start of SIR in West Bengal, the TMC and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee have alleged that several Matua voters risk losing their voting rights, claims that the BJP leadership has consistently rejected.
In addition to addressing the Matua issue, Amit Shah instructed the state leadership to counter misinformation from the CPI(M)-led Left Front and some Congress leaders, who have hinted at secret understandings between the BJP and TMC leadership.
The Home Minister also urged the state leadership to launch aggressive campaigning for the upcoming Assembly elections, expected as early as April 2026.
Party officials have been asked to maintain constant communication with voters, ensure awareness about their rights, and mobilise support across key constituencies.
Shah’s directions signal the BJP’s strategy to consolidate its base in West Bengal while challenging narratives that may affect voter confidence ahead of the crucial polls.
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