BJP Slams Mamata Banerjee Over ‘Ganda Dharma’ Remark at Eid Event
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in West Bengal sharply criticized Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday for her “Ganda Dharma” remark during an Eid-ul-Fitr event in Kolkata, labeling it a provocative statement. The controversy erupted after Banerjee said she “doesn’t follow Ganda Dharma,” prompting accusations from BJP leaders that she insulted Sanatan Hindu Dharma while addressing a religious gathering.
Speaking at an Eid prayer event on Red Road, Banerjee’s comment stirred a political storm. West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari took to X, questioning, “Kaun sa Dharm ganda hai Ms Mamata Banerjee? Which religion were you specifically referring to? Sanatan Hindu Dharma?” He accused her of using the platform to appease the Muslim community.
Adhikari further claimed Banerjee repeatedly mentioned “Danga” (riot), questioning if the event was religious or political in nature.
Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Kunal Ghosh came to Banerjee’s defense, asserting, “Whatever Mamata Banerjee has said is right.” He argued that the BJP distorts Hindu dharma for political gain, stating, “We believe in Ramakrishna, Vivekananda, and true Hinduism, but the BJP is trying to create a fake narrative.”
Ghosh maintained that Banerjee’s remarks were aimed at countering the BJP’s alleged divisive tactics, not disrespecting any faith.
BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya intensified the criticism, posting on X, “Is Sanatan Dharma a ‘Ganda Dharm’ for West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee? Despite numerous anti-Hindu riots under her watch, she has the audacity to mock Hindus and deride their faith.” He accused her of using the Eid platform to target Hindus.
Malviya added, “Once again, she has given Muslims a carte blanche to target Hindus—this time from a religious platform meant to celebrate Eid.”
ALSO READ | Mamata Banerjee Heckled at Oxford Event Over RG Kar Case, Singur Protests Erupt
In her address, Banerjee urged people to resist provocations that could spark communal riots. “Provocations are being made to fuel riots, but please don’t fall into these traps,” she said, assuring, “The West Bengal government stands with the minorities. No one can provoke tensions in the state.”
She also criticized the BJP’s “jumla politics,” questioning, “If they have problems with the minorities, will they change the Constitution of the country?”
The BJP’s response highlighted Banerjee’s alleged history of overseeing communal tensions, while the TMC framed her speech as a defense of secular values against the BJP’s electoral strategies. Banerjee reiterated her respect for all religions, positioning her stance as one of unity rather than division.
Adhikari warned that such remarks would backfire, accusing her of sowing discord between communities for political mileage.
The row is likely to escalate as both parties dig in their heels ahead of key political events in West Bengal. With Banerjee’s remarks drawing sharp reactions, further statements from the TMC and BJP leadership are expected, potentially deepening the debate over religion and politics in the state.
