Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday intensified political campaigning in West Bengal, alleging that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s government “welcomes” illegal infiltration from Bangladesh. Addressing an election rally in Alipurduar district, which shares a border with Assam, Sarma claimed that BJP-led governments in Assam and Tripura strictly prevent infiltration, while West Bengal follows a different approach. His remarks came as campaigning heats up for the 294-member West Bengal Assembly elections scheduled in two phases on April 23 and April 29.
Allegations Over Border Fencing and Illegal Immigration
Sarma further alleged that the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal does not permit proper fencing along the India-Bangladesh border, which he claimed facilitates illegal immigration. He said this has contributed to demographic changes in the state over the years. According to him, such developments are not just political issues but also matters linked to security and long-term population balance. The Chief Minister argued that BJP-ruled states maintain stricter enforcement mechanisms to prevent cross-border infiltration.
Claims of Demographic Shift in West Bengal
Escalating his attack, Sarma asserted that West Bengal is witnessing a “demographic transformation” due to illegal immigration. He claimed that while the population of Hindus in the state is declining, the number of Bangladeshi-origin Muslims is increasing. These statements were made in the context of ongoing political debates over identity, migration, and border security in the region. His remarks are expected to further intensify the already heated electoral discourse between the BJP and the TMC ahead of the crucial polls.
Confident Election Predictions and BJP’s ‘Century’ Claim
Turning to electoral predictions, Sarma expressed confidence that the BJP will perform strongly not only in West Bengal but also in Assam. He said the party is poised to “surely win” in the northeastern state and “score a century” in the 126-member Assam Assembly. Voting in Assam has already concluded, with results scheduled to be declared on May 4. The West Bengal Assembly elections will be conducted in two phases, and counting of votes will take place alongside Assam, making it a politically significant day for both states.
