As violence continues to grip parts of West Bengal, particularly in the Murshidabad district, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched a scathing attack on Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Yusuf Pathan over a recent social media post. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla accused the former cricketer-turned-politician of indifference during a time of crisis, pointing to a photo shared by Pathan on Instagram where he is seen sipping tea in a relaxed setting.
Though the Murshidabad constituency is represented in the Lok Sabha by Pathan’s party colleague Abu Taher Khan, Poonawalla used the unfolding unrest to criticize Pathan and the TMC, claiming their priorities were misplaced during a time of grave public disorder. Alongside his criticism, Poonawalla shared graphic images from areas affected by the violence, blaming the ruling party for failing to act.
In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Poonawalla wrote, “Bengal is burning. The High Court had to intervene and deploy central forces. Mamata Banerjee continues to encourage state-backed violence as the police remain inactive. Meanwhile, Yusuf Pathan, MP, is seen sipping tea and enjoying the moment while Hindus are being slaughtered. This is TMC.”
Later, speaking to the media, Poonawalla expanded his critique. “Mamata Banerjee picked a cricketer named Yusuf Pathan and gave him a ticket. He won from Baharampur due to vote bank politics. But now, while Bengal is engulfed in violence, and Hindus are being selectively targeted, Yusuf Pathan is casually sipping tea. This shows where TMC’s priorities lie,” he said.
The remarks come at a time of heightened tensions in West Bengal, particularly in Murshidabad, where protests erupted following controversial amendments to the Waqf law. The changes have triggered widespread demonstrations, with several turning violent. At least three people have been reported dead and more than 150 individuals arrested in connection with the clashes.
Multiple districts, including Murshidabad, Malda, and South 24 Parganas, have witnessed arson attacks, stone-pelting, and confrontations with law enforcement. On Friday, several vehicles were torched, prompting authorities to launch a series of raids and increase the deployment of security forces in an effort to bring the situation under control.
The BJP has been vocal in accusing the TMC-led state government of failing to manage the law and order situation effectively. The Calcutta High Court recently intervened, ordering the immediate deployment of central forces in the region to assist in restoring peace.
As tensions simmer, political tempers continue to flare, with the opposition seizing on every opportunity to hold the ruling party accountable for the deteriorating situation. The state remains on high alert as authorities work to contain the violence and ensure the safety of all residents.
