West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has attempted to reach out to the influential Matua community amid rising discontent over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter list, with political observers interpreting her latest message an effort to reassure and consolidate Matua support.
The Matua community, comprising Dalit Hindu refugees from Bangladesh, has long been regarded as a significant vote bank in the state, particularly in districts such as North 24 Parganas and Nadia, which turned out to be the BJP’s strongholds since the 2019 general elections. However, the recent release of the final SIR list has sparked controversy after allegations surfaced that thousands of Matua names were either excluded or placed under the 'under adjudication' category.
The development has triggered anxiety and anger among sections of the community, many of whom have been engaged in a prolonged struggle over citizenship and identity issues. The uncertainty surrounding the voter list has added to these concerns.
Against this backdrop, Mamata posted a message on social media on March 5 marking the death anniversary of Veenapani Devi, revered among Matuas as 'Baroma—the community’s supreme'. In her tribute, the Chief Minister honoured the spiritual leader and reiterated her government’s commitment to the welfare and dignity of the Matua community.
Political observers said the timing of the message is significant, as it comes at a moment when dissatisfaction over the SIR list is growing within the community. Analysts suggest that the tribute may also serve as a political outreach aimed at addressing Matua grievances and directing their frustration towards the BJP and the Central government.
Leaders from the Trinamool Congress (TMC) have maintained that the state government has consistently supported the Matua community. According to them, the alleged exclusion of names from the list stems from flawed policies implemented by the Centre.
However, some members of the Matua community have expressed scepticism. They argue that while emotional appeals are being made in the name of Baroma, more concrete efforts are needed to address legal complications and ensure that eligible names are included in the voter list.
Experts believe Mamata’s message not only pays tribute to the Matua spiritual leader, but also carries an indirect political critique of the Centre. Meanwhile, Matua groups in several districts are reportedly preparing protests over the SIR list controversy, suggesting that the issue could further intensify political competition for the community’s support in the coming months.
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