A political controversy has erupted in the border region of West Bengal’s Nadia district after allegations of disrupting communal harmony were leveled against Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra. Acting on these allegations, a local leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has filed a written complaint at the Karimpur police station.
The complaint stems from a video posted by Moitra on her official Facebook page on May 16, where she criticised recent guidelines issued under the West Bengal Animal Slaughter Control Act, 1950. In the video, Moitra alleged that the guidelines were “politically motivated” and aimed at appeasing a particular section of society. She further claimed that the directives had triggered panic in cattle markets, creating fear among those dependent on the trade for their livelihood.
Moitra also questioned the government’s stance by referring to beef export figures, stating that significant revenue had been generated through the sector during the 2024–25 financial year. She raised concerns over what she described as contradictory policies affecting ordinary traders.
Reacting strongly, BJP leader Golok Biswas lodged a complaint accusing the MP of making “provocative” remarks intended to disturb communal harmony. He asserted that the government guidelines did not target any specific community and alleged that Moitra’s statements were baseless and inflammatory.
Echoing similar sentiments, Samarendranath Ghosh, the BJP MLA from Karimpur, criticised the MP, stating that the official directive does not call for shutting down cattle markets. He maintained that the guidelines were introduced to curb cattle smuggling across the India-Bangladesh border and alleged that Moitra’s comments could indirectly aid such illegal activities.
The MLA further urged authorities to investigate whether the MP’s remarks had any connection to attempts at facilitating cross-border smuggling, citing past cases involving alleged links between political figures and such activities.
However, the controversy is not one-sided. It has also come to light that earlier this month, Golok himself posted a contentious message on social media, warning locals against engaging in property transactions with Moitra and using derogatory language against her. In response, Moitra had filed a separate complaint at the same police station.
In a counter-allegation, Golok claimed that the MP has been consistently vitiating the local atmosphere through divisive rhetoric and referred to an alleged dispute involving her and a local landlord. Attempts to reach Moitra for comment on the latest allegations were unsuccessful.
Meanwhile, sources within the TMC indicated unease over the situation. Speaking on condition of anonymity, several local party workers suggested that, given the sensitivity of the issue, such remarks could expose grassroots workers to potential backlash.
With complaints filed by both sides, the political climate in Karimpur remains tense. The police have initiated an investigation into the matter, as the situation continues to draw attention in this sensitive border region.
Follow us
