CM Mamata slams eviction of Bengali migrant workers in Delhi, alleges targeted harassment

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has raised objections to an eviction drive reportedly underway at Jai Hind Colony in Vasant Kunj, New Delhi, a settlement largely inhabited by Bengali-speaking migrant workers. In a public statement, Banerjee described the colony’s residents as part of the city’s unorganised workforce and claimed that their access to basic amenities was being disrupted.

According to Banerjee, the colony’s water supply was recently cut off following orders from the BJP-led government. She also stated that electricity meters had been confiscated and power was disconnected two days prior to her statement. The Chief Minister said residents had arranged and paid for private water tankers, which were allegedly blocked by the Delhi Police with support from RAF personnel.

Banerjee stated that the eviction is ongoing despite the matter being sub-judice. She referred to an earlier incident in December when, according to her, a similar operation was carried out by the Delhi Police. “How can we claim to be a democratic republic if the basic rights to shelter, water, electricity are being trampled upon?” she asked in her statement.

She also criticised the treatment of Bengali-speaking individuals in other BJP-ruled states, naming Gujarat, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh. Banerjee said, “Speaking Bengali does not make one a Bangladeshi. These individuals are as much citizens of India as anyone else, regardless of what language they speak.”

Banerjee further said that over 1.5 crore migrant workers reside in Bengal with dignity and that similar standards should be maintained across India. She alleged that after failing to target Bengalis in West Bengal, a systematic agenda was being carried out elsewhere. “We will not remain silent while people from Bengal are treated like trespassers in their own country. Bengal stands in solidarity with every oppressed voice. We will raise this issue in every possible forum,” her statement concluded.