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Union Home Minister Amit Shah has launched a strong attack on the West Bengal government, accusing it of giving a “red carpet welcome” to illegal immigrants. He claims that infiltration has stopped in BJP-ruled Assam but continues in West Bengal. This article explains Shah’s statements, the reasons behind his claims, and the political implications.
Amit Shah’s Accusations
Amit Shah, addressing a media conclave in Patna, claimed that while infiltration has stopped in BJP-ruled Assam, it continues in West Bengal. He accused the Mamata Banerjee government of giving a “red carpet welcome” to illegal immigrants. Shah said, “It is baffling that the opposition is upset about the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, which would remove infiltrators. I am fully in support of the SIR exercise, which will eventually take place in the entire country.”
Reasons for Border Lapses
Shah blamed dense forests and mighty rivers along the India-Bangladesh border for making fencing and round-the-clock vigil impossible. He said, “Boats for security personnel manning the borders also tend to get washed away.” Despite these challenges, Shah argued that local police and officials in West Bengal are not raising alarms about infiltrators, suggesting they are under orders to give a “red carpet welcome.”
Political Context and SIR Exercise
Shah urged people in West Bengal to vote out Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in the next assembly elections. He promised to “drive out every infiltrator” from the state if the BJP comes to power. Shah also defended the SIR exercise, stating it is necessary to weed out infiltrators from electoral rolls and ensure fair elections.
Reactions and Implications
Shah’s remarks have sparked debate on border security and the role of state governments. The opposition has criticized his claims, while supporters see them as a strong stance on national security. The SIR exercise is expected to continue in West Bengal, with Shah promising strict action against infiltrators.