Challenging the “infiltration” narrative put forward by India’s Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Banerjee questioned under what status Hasina is residing in New Delhi—whether as an infiltrator or a refugee.
Speaking at a press conference at Trinamool Bhavan in Kolkata on Friday, just hours after the Bharatiya Janata Party released its election manifesto, Banerjee raised concerns over the central government’s silence on Hasina’s legal position. He described the issue as a major political question, noting that Hasina has been in India since August 5, 2024, following a mass uprising in Bangladesh.
Banerjee strongly criticized Amit Shah’s tough stance on illegal immigration. “The BJP always speaks strongly against infiltration. But what is Sheikh Hasina doing in Delhi for the past one and a half years? What is her status? Is she an infiltrator or a refugee? Why is the Modi government providing her shelter?” he asked. He further challenged the Home Minister to clarify her official status.
Accusing the BJP of repeatedly targeting Bengalis, Banerjee referred to the National Register of Citizens process in Assam, claiming that out of 1.9 million excluded individuals, a large number were Hindu Bengalis who faced the risk of detention. He also alleged that nearly 9 million names have been removed from voter rolls in West Bengal under the guise of revision, with a majority being Hindu Bengalis.
He further claimed that in BJP-ruled states, people are being harassed for speaking Bengali or for their food choices.
Mocking the BJP’s previous election slogan “Sonar Bangla,” Banerjee pointed out its absence in the current manifesto, suggesting it reflects a lack of confidence within the party.
Referring again to Amit Shah’s remarks, he alleged that the BJP has effectively admitted that West Bengal would be governed from Delhi and Gujarat if the party comes to power. However, he asserted that the people of Bengal would not hand over their autonomy.
Dismissing the BJP’s anti-corruption stance as a “farce,” Banerjee claimed that individuals accused of corruption are “whitewashed” after joining the party.
Highlighting concerns over national security, the Diamond Harbour MP said that despite Delhi Police being under the Home Ministry, incidents like explosions still occur in the capital.
He also criticized BJP’s promises regarding dearness allowance (DA) for state government employees, calling them “blind assurances,” and said the state government has already addressed the issue in its budget.
It is worth noting that Sheikh Hasina left Bangladesh on August 5, 2024, following a mass uprising and has since been staying in New Delhi. Her current legal status in India remains unclear, an issue that Banerjee has now brought to the forefront, especially as Bangladesh’s interim government seeks her extradition.
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