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Time of India
11 hours ago
- Politics
- Time of India
BJP will say ‘Joy Bangla' after 2026 assembly polls: Abhishek
Kolkata: Trinamool Congress national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Monday said he would ensure that after 'Joy Ma Kali' and 'Joy Ma Durga', BJP would also say 'Joy Bangla' after the 2026 assembly polls. Speaking at the Martyrs' Day rally at Esplanade, Banerjee said: "BJP used to chant 'Jai Shri Ram' earlier but now are saying 'Joy Ma Kali' and 'Joy Ma Durga'. Mark my words and write this down, I will make them say 'Joy Bangla' after the 2026 elections. " "This is a victory for Trinamool Congress, this is a victory for the people of Bengal. BJP now has to bow before the very people it wanted to starve (by blocking central funds) and say 'Joy Ma Kali' and 'Joy Ma Durga'. This is a victory for 12 crore farmers, labourers, youth, tapashilis, Adivasis, and a victory for the culture and heritage of Bengal," he said. You Can Also Check: Kolkata AQI | Weather in Kolkata | Bank Holidays in Kolkata | Public Holidays in Kolkata "They used the income tax department to disturb Durga Puja committees and stop Durga Puja. They insulted Durga Puja, and now they have to say 'Joy Ma Durga'," he said. "We will proudly speak Bengali. We should make a rule that in this session, we will speak Bengali in Parliament. Let me see who stops us. We are the children of Bengal, and we will not surrender," the MP added. Banerjee said: "Before 2021, we said 'Khela Hobe'. This time we are saying 'Poddo Phool Upre Fela Hobe (we will uproot the lotus)'." "Why is BJP so irritated if someone speaks Bengali? Is it because they could not win in Bengal?" the Trinamool neta said. "Last month, I said that BJP would not cross 50 seats in Bengal. I do not make political predictions, but when I do, I do so after proper thought and with faith in the people." "I can responsibly say that the way these people have humiliated, oppressed, tortured, insulted and exploited the people of Bengal day after day, just for their arrogance, ego, and pride, the few handfuls of Bangla-birodhi who are left — we have to oust them and throw them into the Bay of Bengal," he said. Referring to the special intensive revision (SIR) by EC in Bihar, Banerjee said: "Thrity-two years ago on July 21, in demand of photo-based identification, 13 people sacrificed their lives to return democratic rights to the people of the country. On July 21, 2025, if we, the Trinamool workers, have to sacrifice our lives on the roads to stop the scam by Election Commission, we will do it. We will not let them it on Bengal's voter list. If required, Trinamool will organise a greater movement in Delhi with the permission of CM Mamata Banerjee." Banerjee also slammed Assam govt for trying to slap NRC notices on people from Bengal. "This time, they are using the Assam Foreign Tribunal, which does not hold any power in the land of Bengal, to send letters to our Rajbanshi brothers and label them Bangladeshi. Is it a crime to speak in Bengali? We will speak in Bengali. The more we do, the more they get irritated. Be proud to speak in Bengali," he said.
News18
a day ago
- Politics
- News18
Is ‘Durga Angan' Mamata Banerjee's Answer to BJP's ‘Jai Ma Kali' Shift? Analysts Decode Speech
Last Updated: Mamata Banerjee asked, 'Why is it that you start remembering Ma Kali only during polls?" Bengal BJP President Shamik Bhattacharya questioned TMC's sudden love for Bengali Following Chief Minister (CM) and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee's speech at the Martyrs' Day rally on Monday, political circles in Bengal are abuzz with speculation that the proposed 'Durga Angan' is a direct counter to the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) recent shift toward invoking Bengali religious symbols like 'Jai Ma Kali' and 'Jai Ma Durga' in its campaign narrative. During her speech, Banerjee asked pointedly, 'Why is it that you suddenly start remembering Ma Kali and Ma Durga only during the elections? Ma Durga is our revered goddess, and Durga Puja has even received international recognition as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Now listen—just as we developed Jagannath Dham, we will create 'Durga Angan' so that people can visit and experience it throughout the year." This statement has made one thing clear: Banerjee is planning to construct a permanent, temple-like complex dedicated to Ma Durga, where devotees and tourists can visit year-round—an ambitious move ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. BJP's shift from 'Jai Shri Ram' to 'Matru Shakti' Experts observing Bengal's evolving political landscape say that the BJP, in its bid to connect more deeply with Bengali sentiments, has strategically shifted its religious rhetoric—from 'Jai Shri Ram' to symbols of Matru Shakti like 'Jai Ma Kali' and 'Jai Ma Durga'. TMC insiders believe Banerjee is not willing to let the BJP dominate this cultural-religious space. After promoting the Jagannath Temple project in Digha as an outreach to Hindu voters, she now seems focused on strengthening her connect with Bengal's core religious identity—centered on Ma Durga. While some local Durga temples exist, the scale and visibility of Durga Angan suggest a much larger political and cultural plan. Observers believe that the 2026 Assembly elections will revolve around three major themes: Bengali identity (Asmita), the alleged inclusion of bogus voters, and religious polarisation. Symbols like Ram, Ma Kali, Ma Durga, and temple-building will become significant talking points. Political analysts say the Jagannath temple initiative reflected Banerjee's attempt to reach out to Hindu voters amid accusations of minority appeasement. But Ma Durga and Ma Kali—iconic figures in Bengal's spiritual consciousness—strike a more emotional chord with the Bengali electorate. Durga Angan, therefore, is expected to be a key part of TMC's election strategy. 'We are ready to lay down our lives, but we will never accept @BJP4India 's attack on the Bengali language. Starting 27th July, protest rallies will be held every Saturday and Sunday, with the participation of people from all linguistic communities. If you come across any migrant… — All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) July 21, 2025 Mamata Banerjee launches Bengali language movement In a fresh political thrust, Banerjee has issued a clarion call for a Bengali Language Movement across the state beginning July 27. She has directed her MPs to stage a dharna outside Parliament in New Delhi to protest alleged discrimination against Bengali-speaking citizens. According to the TMC, several Bengali speakers are being branded as illegal immigrants and are receiving NRC notices. Mamata declared: 'If they arrest more Bengalis, we will take this fight to Delhi. There will be another Bhasha Andolan. They can't harass people just for speaking Bengali." TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee also announced that party MPs will begin delivering speeches in Bengali if necessary to assert linguistic rights. Mamata Banerjee threatens to gherao EC over SIR The Chief Minister also took aim at the Election Commission and raised alarms over the State Electoral Roll (SIR) issue, warning of voter list manipulation. She accused the BJP of winning in Maharashtra and Delhi by including bogus voters and deleting genuine ones. 'They have forcefully defeated the opposition in Maharashtra. In Bihar, they deleted names. If Bengal is next on their list, we will respond. I'm known for my movements. If names are deleted here, I will take to the streets again," Banerjee declared. Abhishek Banerjee reinforced this sentiment, saying, 'The BJP is unleashing two Es — Election Commission to control voters, and the Enforcement Directorate to silence opposition leaders." 'We are ready to lay down our lives, but we will never accept @BJP4India 's attack on the Bengali language. Starting 27th July, protest rallies will be held every Saturday and Sunday, with the participation of people from all linguistic communities. If you come across any migrant… — All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) July 21, 2025 Mamata Banerjee targets Assam, plans protest Taking a direct shot at Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, Banerjee accused him of interfering in Bengal's affairs while failing to govern his own state. She instructed TMC leader Sushmita Dev to organize a major protest in Assam, stating: 'You can't manage Assam, but you're meddling in Bengal. We will all join a protest there." BJP hits back: TMC compromising national security Responding sharply, Bengal BJP President Shamik Bhattacharya alleged that the TMC is compromising national security by enabling the entry of Rohingyas. He questioned the TMC's sudden love for Bengali language, citing the Daribhit incident: 'Where was their Bengali pride when students were shot for demanding Bengali teachers in Daribhit? They won't be in power next year." As Bengal moves closer to the 2026 polls, it's clear that Bengali identity, religious symbolism, and electoral integrity will dominate the political narrative. Mamata's Durga Angan and her renewed push for linguistic rights are now central to the TMC's battle to retain power—setting the stage for a high-stakes ideological showdown. About the Author Kamalika Sengupta Kamalika Sengupta, Editor, Digital East of News18, is a multilingual journalist with 16 years of experience in covering the northeast, with specialisation in politics and defence. She has won UNICEF Laadli More Get Latest Updates on Movies, Breaking News On India, World, Live Cricket Scores, And Stock Market Updates. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : Bharatiya Janata Party Mamata Banerjee news18 specials Trinamool Congress (TMC) view comments Location : Kolkata, India, India First Published: July 21, 2025, 18:28 IST News politics Is 'Durga Angan' Mamata Banerjee's Answer to BJP's 'Jai Ma Kali' Shift? Analysts Decode Speech Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
2 days ago
- Politics
- News18
BJP Banking On Bengal-Based Leaders For 2026 Poll Campaign
Last Updated: Observers suggest that this tactical pivot reflects a recognition of the need for stronger local resonance With the Bengal assembly elections to be held in 2026, both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the state's ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) have demonstrably begun to lay the groundwork for what promises to be another high-stakes electoral battle. This week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and chief minister Mamata Banerjee effectively set the tone for their respective parties, actively engaging in strategies designed to energise their cadres and sway the electorate. The BJP, in particular, is signalling a significant shift in its campaign playbook for West Bengal. Sources indicate a deliberate move to empower and prioritise Bengal-based leaders to spearhead the ground campaign. This strategy aims to ensure that leaders deeply rooted in the state's cultural fabric will drive door-to-door outreach and orchestrate large-scale campaign events. While national 'star campaigners" like Prime Minister Modi and union home minister Amit Shah will maintain their usual impactful visits, the party plans to reduce the reliance on leaders brought in from other states. The emphasis, this time, is squarely on Bengali or Bangla-bhashi leaders to connect more organically with the local populace. Observers suggest that this tactical pivot reflects a recognition of the need for stronger local resonance. Any election for the BJP typically involves massive logistical planning and the deployment of teams from across the country to the target state. However, for Bengal 2026, leaders with stronger Bengali connections are being strategically prioritised. Names currently circulating as potential key campaigners include Tripura chief minister Manik Saha and MP Biplab Deb, both with strong regional appeal. Assam's Pabitra Margherita, known for his Bengali heritage, is also likely to be involved, alongside Jharkhand's Annapurna Devi and former union minister Smriti Irani, who has cultivated a notable rapport with the people of Bengal. This strategic adjustment aligns with Prime Minister Modi's recent directive on Friday, urging party workers to focus intensely on the 'Bengali asmita" (pride) agenda. During a rally in Durgapur, PM Modi emphasised the BJP's commitment to Bengal's identity, history, and development, directly countering the TMC's narrative. He began his address with traditional Bengali chants of 'Jai Ma Kali, Jai Ma Durga" and accused the TMC of hindering Bengal's progress while encouraging illegal infiltration. Party insiders further affirm that the over 50 BJP MLAs currently holding seats in the assembly will play a crucial role, working diligently to retain their constituencies and serving as vital grassroots connectors in the upcoming campaign. The TMC, under chief minister Mamata Banerjee, is also actively consolidating its base, with party leaders like Abhishek Banerjee setting ambitious targets for a fourth consecutive term, promising to counter the BJP's narrative and protect Bengal's interests. view comments First Published: July 20, 2025, 07:00 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
3 days ago
- Politics
- News18
Jai Shri Ram Vs Jai Ma Kali: BJP Looks To Connect With Bengali 'Asmita', TMC Mocks 'Imitation'
TMC plans to set a narrative that BJP, which once aggressively projected the slogan 'Jai Shri Ram', has been compelled to adopt chants like 'Jai Ma Kali' under its influence The day Samik Bhattacharya was picked and felicitated as the Bengal president of BJP, the presence of Ma Kali's image on stage had sparked wide discussions. Now, in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rally in Durgapur, the display of Matri Shakti (divine feminine power) was seen in full force. Starting his speech in Durgapur, PM Modi raised the slogans 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai," followed by 'Jai Ma Durga, Jai Ma Kali". Not only did he raise these chants during his address, but this time, the BJP's official invitation also carried the words 'Jai Ma Durga" and 'Jai Ma Kali". Sensing an opportunity, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) is planning to take up the issue strongly. Party spokesperson Kunal Ghosh said, 'The prime minister says he wants development. But what does development mean? It means Mamata Banerjee and her government—Maa, Mati, Manush. It was there, it is there, and it will remain. But what has changed? PM Modi. Earlier it was Jai Shri Ram, now it has become Jai Ma Kali. Has PM Modi changed so much? They used to say Mamata Banerjee does not celebrate Durga Puja. Now, 11 years after becoming PM, Bengal has changed him." He added, 'Today, one good thing we observed was that 'Jai Shri Ram' was not uttered even once." TMC insiders reveal that the party plans to set a narrative suggesting that BJP, which once aggressively projected the slogan 'Jai Shri Ram", has now been compelled to adopt chants like 'Jai Ma Kali" and 'Jai Ma Durga" under TMC's influence. The party intends to position itself as understanding Bengali culture deeply, while portraying the BJP as an outsider merely imitating them. However, this theory is countered by another section of political analysts who argue that BJP's strategy is to connect with Bengali asmita (pride)—similar to their approach in Odisha—although the models in both states differ significantly. Over the past decade, the BJP has consistently tried to align with Bengali cultural identity. This time, their focus on the Bengali Renaissance and cultural heritage is aimed at appealing to the bhadra lok (educated middle class). Chants like 'Jai Ma Kali" and 'Jai Ma Durga" resonate deeply with the masses of Bengal, experts say, and this is part of BJP's strategy to establish a cultural connect. However, they clarify that this does not imply 'Jai Shri Ram" is losing relevance. After all, Bengal's biggest festival, Durga Puja, has its mythological roots in Akalabodhana [worship of goddess Durga] by Lord Ram, establishing a strong narrative link. Experts assert that BJP's Bengali asmita agenda is clear—the party will continue to weave cultural, religious, and regional pride into its political messaging in every possible way. view comments First Published: July 19, 2025, 11:03 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
