BJP Accuses Mamata Banerjee of Fueling Violence Amid Waqf Bill Protests in West Bengal
On April 12, 2025, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) sharply criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of inciting targeted violence against Hindus under the pretext of protests against the recently passed Waqf (Amendment) Bill. At a press conference held in New Delhi, BJP national spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari alleged that the violence observed in Bengal was a direct consequence of political encouragement and appeasement.
Background on the Waqf Amendment Bill
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, recently passed by the Indian Parliament, aims to change the management of Waqf properties across India. The law has received mixed reactions—some areas welcomed it, while others protested. Although most protests were peaceful, BJP leaders claim there were violent incidents in West Bengal.
BJP’s Allegations Against State Leadership
Bhandari highlighted the calm environment in states such as Assam in stark contrast to the turbulent circumstances in West Bengal. He ascribed the unrest to what he called Mamata Banerjee’s “politics of appeasement.” Reflecting on Bengal’s historical legacy, Bhandari expressed sorrow that the state — once the birthplace of icons like Swami Vivekananda, Syama Prasad Mukherjee, and Rabindranath Tagore — had devolved into a “laboratory of appeasement.”
He accused the Chief Minister and her administration of remaining passive during attacks allegedly carried out by radical elements in districts such as Malda, Murshidabad, Nadia, and Jangipur. “When a radical mob attacks Hindus in these areas, the same police that lathi-charge peaceful protesting teachers stay silent,” he stated.
Direct Blame on Mamata Banerjee and Her Aides
Bhandari claimed that intelligence reports warning of possible unrest were available to the West Bengal government ahead of time, yet no preventive measures were taken. He held Mamata Banerjee personally responsible, emphasizing that law and order fall squarely under the Chief Minister’s jurisdiction as a state subject under the Indian Constitution.
He also pointed to a public statement made by Mamata Banerjee after April 5, in which she opposed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. According to Bhandari, this was perceived by extremist groups as an implicit endorsement, emboldening them to act. He added that Siddiqullah Chowdhury, a close aide of Banerjee, had a role in instigating the violence.
Broader Political Implications
The BJP’s sharp criticism underscores the deepening political tensions between the ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and the central government led by the BJP. The debate over the Waqf Amendment Bill and the subsequent unrest have added fuel to the ongoing war of words ahead of upcoming elections, with law and order emerging as a key issue.
As of now, the West Bengal government has not issued a formal response to the BJP’s allegations.
