Religious Politics Heats Up Bengal Election: Mamata's Temple Push Faces BJP Criticism

New Delhi:

The BJP has dismissed Mamata Banerjee's recent temple construction initiatives ahead of Bengal's Assembly election as a strategic 'divide and rule' tactic, pointing to the contrasting mosque plans announced by Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir in Murshidabad district.

The opposition party has consistently accused the Bengal Chief Minister of 'Hindu hatred' and minority 'appeasement,' claiming she permits illegal immigration across the Bangladesh border to strengthen her electoral base.

Former BJP Rajya Sabha MP Roopa Ganguly told NDTV that the Trinamool leader is attempting to "influence both Hindus and Muslims" through these temple projects. "This reveals her divisive policy," Ganguly asserted. "She promotes temples while her team members discuss mosques. It's purely political strategy."

The referenced 'team member' is MLA Humayun Kabir, who announced plans to inaugurate a mosque in Murshidabad on December 6 - the anniversary of the Babri Masjid demolition by right-wing Hindu groups 33 years ago.

Speaking to NDTV, Kabir reflected on the 1992 Babri Masjid demolition: "When I witnessed the historic structure being demolished, I resolved that if given the opportunity, I would find a location in Bengal to build a new Babri Masjid." He denied any connection between the mosque project and upcoming elections.

During Tuesday's march protesting voter list revisions for the 2026 election, Banerjee confirmed plans for constructing a Durga temple in Kolkata's New Town area, potentially beginning by late January. This complements plans for a Mahakal temple dedicated to Shiva in Siliguri district, where BJP support is stronger.

The Bengal Assembly has allocated 25 acres for the Mahakal temple project.

Political analysts interpret these temple initiatives as efforts to reconnect with Hindu voters, particularly those supporting or leaning toward the BJP.

In the 2021 election, BJP secured a narrow advantage in northern districts, winning 30 of 54 seats, while Trinamool dominated elsewhere, securing 216 of 294 total seats.

If Banerjee's temple strategy successfully shifts enough northern district votes while maintaining her stronghold elsewhere, the BJP could face its fourth consecutive electoral defeat in Bengal.