Himanta Biswa Sarma Accuses Mamata Banerjee of Inciting Communal Tensions in West Bengal
In a recent rally, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accused West Bengal's Mamata Banerjee of inciting communal tensions and criticized her governance. He emphasized the need for security measures to prevent infiltrators and addressed issues like cattle smuggling. Banerjee, in turn, defended her administration, claiming the BJP undermines Bengal's identity. This political exchange highlights the ongoing tensions between the two leaders as they prepare for upcoming elections.
| Apr 17, 2026, 12:41 IST
Accusations Against Mamata Banerjee
On Thursday, Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Chief Minister of Assam and a leader of the BJP, accused West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of provoking communal unrest in the state. While addressing an election rally, Sarma criticized former TMC legislator Humayun Kabir regarding his decision to construct the Babri Mosque, asserting that such incidents do not occur in BJP-ruled states. He questioned, 'Who would dare to say they will build Babur's mosque? Or that they will construct Shah Jahan's mosque? This does not happen in other parts of India. Can anyone in Uttar Pradesh claim they will build the Babri Mosque? Can anyone in Assam make such a claim? Where can they say this? Only in West Bengal, where they seem to be playing in Mamata Banerjee's lap. This is why anyone can say whatever they want.'
Call for Support and Security Measures
He further urged for support for the BJP, assuring that electric fencing will be installed at the borders to prevent infiltrators from entering the country through West Bengal. 'Fencing will be erected along the borders of Assam, Tripura, and West Bengal... Anyone who tries to cross will receive an electric shock. Currently, we are implementing this in Assam and Tripura, but it is not happening in West Bengal. The work remains incomplete there. Therefore, give us a chance. With the BJP government in Tripura, Assam, and soon in West Bengal, the fencing will be electrified. No one will be able to enter,' he stated. Earlier in the day, Sarma also targeted Mamata Banerjee over alleged cattle smuggling in the state, emphasizing that the BJP will put an end to it once in power. He claimed that there has never been a ban on meat in BJP-ruled states.
Cultural Concerns and Banerjee's Response
Sarma mentioned that animal sacrifices occur daily at Kamakhya Temple, yet there is no ban on meat in Assam. 'Mamata is afraid that if the BJP comes to power, there will be a ban on meat. The BJP governs in Assam and Bihar, but there is no meat ban there. Mamata fears that the BJP will stop cattle smuggling in her state,' he added. In response, Mamata Banerjee accused the BJP of attempting to undermine Bengal's identity and constitutional rights. She reiterated her commitment to serving the people of West Bengal during her celebration of 'Poila Boishakh.'
Cultural Identity Under Threat
In a post on social media, the Chief Minister alleged that people from Bengal face 'suffering and humiliation' in BJP-ruled states. She claimed that there are attempts to erase Bengal's culture and diversity in favor of uniformity.