A political dispute has emerged in West Bengal following the alleged suicide of a 57-year-old man due to concerns over the National Register of Citizens (NRC). Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of exploiting fear and division for political purposes, while the BJP has retaliated by accusing Banerjee of instigating panic for political mileage.
The victim, Pradeep Kar, was discovered hanging at his home in Panihati, North 24 Parganas district, as confirmed by Barrackpore Police Commissioner Muralidhar Sharma. Kar left a suicide note expressing distress over the NRC and intense anxiety after the recent announcement of the Summary Revision of Electoral Rolls (SIR) in several states, including West Bengal.
Banerjee criticized the BJP for its fear-based politics around the NRC, condemning the party for spreading misinformation and creating a sense of insecurity among the populace. She emphasized that her administration would not permit the implementation of the NRC in the state, denouncing the BJP for turning constitutional democracy into a platform of fear.
In response, BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya refuted Banerjee’s claims, stating that there is no nationwide NRC in effect and accusing the Trinamool Congress of fearmongering and deceit for political interests. Malviya called for a thorough investigation into Kar’s death, emphasizing that the cause should be determined by legal authorities rather than political rhetoric.
The SIR, a routine update of voter lists by the Election Commission, has been a subject of controversy with opposition parties, particularly the Trinamool Congress, alleging it as a disguised NRC to eliminate legitimate voters. Despite opposition from Banerjee, the Election Commission assured smooth conduct of the SIR in West Bengal.
Kar’s family revealed his apprehensions about the NRC, with his elder sister recalling his fears of being targeted under the NRC provisions. The second phase of the SIR, set to commence on November 4 and spanning various states, including West Bengal, has raised concerns and sparked debates amid the political tensions in the region.
The Election Commission reiterated its commitment to conducting the SIR without hindrance in West Bengal, despite objections from certain political quarters. The unfolding events underscore the ongoing political turmoil surrounding the NRC and SIR processes in the state.