Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday accused his West bengal counterpart, Mamata Banerjee of spreading fear over an alleged meat ban under BJP rule, asserting that no such policy exists in states governed by the party.
Addressing the media in Cooch Behar, Sarma said he believed the BJP was poised to come to power in West Bengal, claiming that public sentiment was shifting in favour of the party. Responding to Banerjee’s remarks warning of a possible ban on meat if the BJP forms the government, he dismissed the claim as “unfounded” and politically motivated.
Sarma cited examples of BJP-ruled states such as Assam and Bihar, stating that no such restrictions exist there. He added that food habits remain a matter of personal choice and are not subject to blanket bans under BJP administrations.
Referring to religious practices, the Assam Chief Minister pointed out that animal sacrifice rituals continue at the Kamakhya Temple, one of the most prominent shrines in the region. He said such traditions have not been curtailed under BJP governance, countering claims that cultural or dietary practices would be interfered with.
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Escalating his attack, Sarma alleged that Banerjee’s remarks stem from apprehensions that illegal activities, including cow smuggling, would be curtailed if the BJP assumes office in West Bengal. He suggested that stricter enforcement measures could impact entrenched networks operating along the state’s borders.
On the issue of border management, Sarma emphasised the need for stronger measures to prevent illegal immigration from Bangladesh. He criticised the West Bengal government’s approach, alleging that it has not adequately supported efforts to check cross-border infiltration.
“It is very important to fence the border, especially in West Bengal,” Sarma said, underlining what he described as a pressing national security concern. He added that effective border control would be a priority if the BJP comes to power in the state.
The remarks come amid intensifying political exchanges between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress ahead of the state’s electoral battle, with both sides sharpening their messaging on issues of identity, governance, and security.
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