Nadia, 20 December (H.S.): Although Prime Minister Narendra Modi could not attend the rally in Taherpur, the BJP's state leadership was present on the stage. Addressing the gathering, BJP state president Shamik Bhattacharya prominently raised issues concerning the Matua community. He assured them that their concerns regarding the voter list would be addressed.

Shamik Bhattacharya said, “The Matua-Namah-Shudra people across the border are our brothers, our own blood.” He also launched a sharp attack on the state government.

In his speech, Shamik, giving historical context, said, “Nadia district was once part of Pakistan. Leaders like Syama Prasad Mukherjee and Jadunath Sarkar saved this land. The name of the Queen of Nadia is being erased. If they had not fought that day, we would not even have the right to call ourselves Indians today.”

Giving assurances on the voter list issue, he said, “No Hindu refugee's name will be removed from the voter list. Your rights will be established. Other political parties are only spreading confusion. The political party that stands with those who have come to this country from across the border to protect their traditions, religion, and identity is the Bharatiya Janata Party.”

Continuing his attack on the state government, Shamik Bhattacharya said, “This government has robbed you of your lives and your youth. One industrialist after another has left the state. Bengal has been pushed into a crisis with false promises. Farmers have been cheated. They will have to answer for this.”

Concluding his speech, he said, “Which ideology one believes in is not the biggest issue. Everyone needs to unite. I appeal to all opposition political parties to come together.”

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey