Hindus have become 'second class citizen' in West Bengal under Mamata Banerjee: Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar
Times of India | 6 April 2025
NEW DELHI: Amid Ram Navami celebrations in West Bengal on Sunday, Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar made a scathing statement accusing the Mamata Banerjee-led government of discriminating against Hindus.
Addressing the media, Majumdar alleged that Hindus have become "second-class citizens" in the state.
Recalling last year’s violence during Ram Navami in Howrah, minister claimed the attacks were “pre-planned,” pointing out that the incident took place just 300 metres from the city police office. This proximity indicates deliberate negligence.
"Hindus have become a second class citizen in West Bengal under Mamata Banerjee. Last time, (Hindus were) attacked in Howrah during Ram Navami celebrations. Notably, the CP office was just 300 metres from where the attack took place, which shows that it was pre-planned attack, " Majumdar said.
Majumdar further questioned the heavy deployment of security personnel during this year’s festivities.
Majumdar also stated that five IAS officers have been assigned and a large police force deployed today. He questioned why such heavy security is needed just to celebrate Ram Navami, especially when Hindus still make up 70% of Bengal’s population. According to him, this suggests that something is fundamentally wrong.
"However, police have been deployed today and five IAS officers are handling the situation. Hindus are still 70 per cent in Bengal, but why do need this much of security to celebrate Ram Navami. This shows that something is wrong, " Majumdar added.
The comments come amid heightened security measures in various parts of the state to prevent any untoward incidents during the religious celebrations.
Authorities have urged citizens to maintain peace and harmony.