Bengal assembly passes motion opposing attempts to divide state; BJP cries 'political stunt'

The Trinamool (TMC) has introduced a resolution in the assembly opposing the division of Bengal, alleging a conspiracy by the opposition to establish a separate state by merging several districts. The resolution has sparked a heated debate in the state's political sphere, with the BJP vehemently denying any involvement in the alleged scheme and accusing the Trinamool of spreading false allegations.

The motion was tabled by TMC MLA Satyajit Barman at 3 pm, stating that certain forces are trying to divide the state and harm the culture and heritage of West Bengal. The assembly passed the motion. “Let me tell this House that we will lay down our lives but never allow the division of West Bengal,” TMC minister Firhad Hakim said.

The resolution presented by the Trinamool highlights the concerns of a potential bifurcation of the state, which they argue would lead to the disintegration of the state's unity and integrity. The party has claimed that a conspiracy is being hatched to merge seven or eight districts to create a new state, which they believe would harm the interests of Bengal's people.

The BJP, on the other hand, has strongly opposed the resolution, with Manoj Tigga, the party's deputy leader and whip in the assembly, denying any involvement in the alleged conspiracy. Tigga has argued that the BJP has never organized any rallies supporting the partition of Bengal and has accused the Trinamool of attempting to defame the BJP in the state.

Meanwhile, BJP’s Kurseong MLA Bishnu Prasad Sharma demanded that a referendum on the statehood issue be held in north Bengal, with people giving their mandate on whether they would want to be a part of the state.