Mamata Banerjee Alleges BJP Deactivating Aadhaar Card of Marginalized SCs, STs, Minorities for NRC Prep
Mamata alleges BJP deactivating Aadhaar of marginalized communities, fearing NRC, sparking controversy as elections approach in West Bengal.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has ignited a political firestorm by alleging that Aadhaar cards belonging to marginalized communities—SCs, STs, and minorities—are being deactivated in a calculated move by the BJP government, possibly as a precursor to the National Register of Citizens (NRC). Banerjee’s accusations come amidst growing tensions as the country gears up for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections
Banerjee’s assertions, made during a press conference at the state secretariat, underscore her concern over what she perceives as a deliberate attempt to disenfranchise certain segments of society. She contends that the timing of these Aadhaar deactivations, just prior to the elections, raises serious questions about the government’s motives. Her allegations are particularly directed towards the Matua community, a significant vote bank in West Bengal, and SC/ST groups.
The West Bengal Chief Minister’s response has been swift and proactive. In a bid to mitigate the potential fallout from Aadhaar deactivations, she has announced the implementation of an Aadhaar Grievances Portal and vowed to issue alternative identification cards to affected individuals. This move signals her administration’s commitment to ensuring that citizens do not lose access to essential social welfare schemes due to Aadhaar discrepancies.
Banerjee’s decision to escalate the matter by reaching out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscores the seriousness of the situation. By seeking legal advice and contemplating further action, she is positioning herself as a staunch defender of the rights of marginalized communities in the face of what she perceives as discriminatory government policies.
However, the BJP-led central government has dismissed Banerjee’s allegations, attributing the Aadhaar deactivations to technical glitches rather than a concerted effort to target specific communities. Union Minister Shantanu Thakur has downplayed the issue, emphasizing that no Aadhaar numbers have been canceled. This conflicting narrative sets the stage for a potential political showdown between the ruling party and the opposition ahead of the elections.
Banerjee’s assertion that the Aadhaar deactivations serve the BJP’s agenda to implement the NRC adds another layer of complexity to the controversy. She accuses the government of using administrative mechanisms to achieve its political objectives, particularly in states like West Bengal where identity politics and communal dynamics are significant factors.
Furthermore, Banerjee’s characterization of the BJP as a “fascist conspiracy” reflects the heightened rhetoric and polarized atmosphere surrounding Indian politics. Her vehement opposition to the NRC and detention camps resonates with sentiments among her support base, particularly in light of ongoing unrest in regions like Sandeshkhali.
In response to Banerjee’s allegations, the state government has vowed to take the matter to the Election Commission of India, signaling its intent to address the issue through institutional channels. Banerjee’s critique extends beyond the BJP to include other opposition parties, accusing them of tacitly supporting the BJP’s agenda in West Bengal.
Ultimately, the controversy surrounding Aadhaar deactivations highlights the intersection of identity, politics, and governance in India. As the country braces for a fiercely contested election season, the treatment of marginalized communities and the protection of their rights will remain central issues, with leaders like Mamata Banerjee at the forefront of the debate.
