AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi has stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee are effectively two sides of the same coin. He made these remarks during a public gathering in the Raghunathganj Assembly constituency on April 13 as part of the campaign for the upcoming West Bengal elections.

Owaisi expressed his concerns regarding the treatment of Muslims in the state, stating that the Majlis would not accept the compromising of their interests. He questioned Banerjee’s allegiance to the BJP, suggesting that the Chief Minister’s past claims regarding the Waqf Act were deceptive and aimed at securing votes from the community.

This statement follows the release of a “sting video” by the Trinamool Congress (TMC), which featured Humayun Kabir, the chief of the AJUP, allegedly discussing a financial arrangement involving Rs 1,000 crore. Owaisi raised alarms about the integrity of the Muslim community in West Bengal amidst these revelations.

Claims of Discrimination Against Muslims

During his address, Owaisi asserted that the Muslim community in Bengal has endured “grave injustice” over the years. He referenced historical incidents, including instances from the 1960s when significant numbers of Muslims from Bengal faced deportation or legal notices during Jawaharlal Nehru’s tenure as Prime Minister.

Owaisi further emphasised the economic challenges faced by Muslim women, vowing to implement a minimum wage policy for those working in the bidi rolling industry. He highlighted the need for social and economic reforms to enhance the livelihoods of those in the community.

He also mentioned the recent decision by the Calcutta High Court to cancel 500,000 OBC certificates, with a substantial portion—350,000 certificates—belonging to the Muslim population. This action, he argued, illustrates a systemic issue affecting the community’s opportunities and rights in the state.

Protests Planned for Justice in Murshidabad

Owaisi’s speech also included a commitment to advocating for justice in Murshidabad, indicating plans for a ‘chakka jam’ in Kolkata aimed at drawing attention to the issues faced by residents in the region. This strike is intended to protest the perceived neglect and discrimination affecting the area.

Earlier, the AIMIM declared its decision to part ways with the political party led by Kabir, signalling a shift in alliances as the elections approach. The focus for Owaisi and his party remains firmly centred on addressing the grievances of the Muslim community in West Bengal.

The upcoming elections for the 294-member West Bengal Assembly will take place in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with the counting of votes set for May 4. The political landscape remains dynamic as various parties mobilise support ahead of these crucial dates.

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