PM Modi vs Mamata Banerjee over Ram Navami celebrations in Bengal
A war of words has erupted between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress over Ram Navami celebrations in West Bengal.
In Short
- Politics erupts over Ram Navami celebrations in West Bengal
- PM Modi accuses TMC of trying to stop the celebrations
- Mamata Banerjee accuses BJP of inciting communal tensions
Ahead of the Ram Navami celebrations on Wednesday, politics erupted over the celebration of the festival in West Bengal. Prime Minister Narendra Modi targeted the ruling Trinamool Congress, saying the party had “tried its best to stop Ram Navami celebrations” in Bengal. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, on the other hand, accused the BJP of interfering in officials’ transfers in the state and said the party would be responsible if any riots broke out.
This comes a day after the Calcutta High Court granted permission to the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) to hold a procession on Ram Navami in Howrah city. The West Bengal government had highlighted unrest during last year's procession and proposed an alternative route for the procession. The organisers had contested in the high court.
Addressing a public meeting in Balurghat, PM Modi on Tuesday said this was the first Ram Navami with Ram Lalla enthroned in the grand temple in Ayodhya.
“I know TMC, as always, tried its best to stop the Ram Navami celebrations here, and hatched several conspiracies. But only truth wins. Therefore, permission has been granted by the court and tomorrow the Ram Navami processions will be taken out with full reverence and devotion,” PM Modi said, reacting to the high court’s order.
Meanwhile, with just days left for the first phase of elections scheduled on April 19, Mamata Banerjee has alleged that the BJP intends to stoke communal tensions.
“The DIG of Murshidabad was changed... If there are riots there now, the Election Commission will have to take the responsibility...,” Mamata Banerjee said.
She claimed the officials were removed at the insistence of the BJP.
“We know who can handle the riots... But the Election Commission is selectively appointing officers. Changes are being made so that BJP gets a chance... If there is even one riot, it will be the responsibility of the Election Commission... Because the law and order of the state is currently being looked after by the Election Commission...,” Mamata Banerjee said.