Politics over Bengali identity has intensified ahead of the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections. Mamata Banerjee and PM Modi are face-to-face on this issue. Both sides have entered the field with their respective strategies.
Bengal Identity: The issue of Bengali identity is once again under discussion in West Bengal. Ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has intensified her attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), focusing on this issue. At the same time, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also retaliated, portraying himself as the true protector of Bengali identity. This time, both sides are in full political fervor.
Mamata Benefited from the Identity Card in 2021
In the 2021 Assembly elections, Mamata Banerjee gained massive public support by playing the Bengali identity card. The BJP did not respond adequately to this issue at that time and suffered political losses. Mamata returned to power for the third time with a huge majority.
The Identity Issue Raised Again
Now, once again, Mamata Banerjee has started sharpening this old but effective weapon. She has tried to hurt Bengali identity by making the alleged oppression of Bengalis in BJP-ruled states an issue. She herself took to the streets, held rallies, and fiercely attacked the BJP.
Prime Minister Modi's Counterattack
To respond to Mamata's attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself landed on the soil of Bengal. In the Durgapur rally, he clearly stated that the BJP is protecting Bengali identity. He accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of destroying Bengali culture.
Bengali Flavor in Modi's Speech
PM Modi began his speech with chants of 'Jai Maa Kali, Jai Maa Durga'. This was a deep cultural appeal connected to the religious sentiments of Bengal. A painting of Bharat Mata made by Abanindranath Tagore, considered a symbol of Bengali identity, was displayed on the stage.
Instead of traditional marigolds or roses, garlands of Rajnigandha were used on the stage of the meeting. This flower is considered very dear in Bengal. This was an attempt to convey the message that the BJP respects the culture of Bengal.
BJP Government Gave Classical Language Status to Bangla
PM Modi also reminded that it was his government that gave classical language status to Bangla. He said that the seeds of the BJP were sown in Bengal itself. He was referring to Syama Prasad Mukherjee, the founder of the Jan Sangh.
He alleged that the Trinamool government is changing the identity of Bengal and protecting illegal infiltrators. He said that the BJP will not tolerate any activity that hurts Bengali identity. He clarified that constitutional action against illegal infiltration will continue.
