Dilip Ghosh allegedly urges Hindus to arm themselves for self-protection, says 'Police won't protect you'

Senior West Bengal BJP leader Dilip Ghosh has ignited a major political controversy after his purported remarks urging Hindus to keep weapons at home went viral on social media. His comments came at a sensitive time, days after communal clashes in Murshidabad left at least three dead and many displaced.

In the video circulating online, Ghosh is allegedly heard telling a public gathering in North 24 Parganas that Hindus should not rely on the police for their safety. "Hindus are buying television sets, refrigerators, and new furniture. But they don't have a single weapon at home. When something happens, they keep calling the police. The police will not save you," he reportedly said.

Adding to his controversial statement, the former West Bengal BJP chief mentioned that Hindus have now realized the importance of unity. "Ten years ago, people didn't know what Ram Navami processions were. Today, such processions are being held in every locality because Hindus have realized they need to unite. Even God doesn't stand by the weak," he stated during his address.

The remarks have drawn sharp criticism from the ruling Trinamool Congress. TMC MLA from Murshidabad, Humayun Kabir, accused Ghosh of deliberately trying to provoke communal tension. "If one person attacks another, there will be retaliation. BJP leaders are using religion to provoke Hindus and disrupt West Bengal's harmony and culture," Kabir said.

Neither Dilip Ghosh nor the BJP has issued any clarification or official response to the controversy. Meanwhile, political tension remains high in Murshidabad, where central forces have been deployed and internet services suspended to curb further unrest.

In the aftermath of the Waqf Act protests, more than 200 people have been arrested for their alleged involvement in the violence. Authorities are urging calm as efforts to restore normalcy in the region continue.