BJP's outreach to tribals ahead of Bengal polls, claims 'atrocities' by Trinamool

With less than a year to go for the West Bengal Assembly elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has turned its attention to tribal-dominated regions of the state, alleging systematic neglect and atrocities against the tribal community under the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government. The party is now preparing for a major political movement centred around tribal rights.

Opposition Leader Suvendu Adhikari presented what he claimed was concrete evidence of five recent incidents of violence and injustice against tribals in different districts, including Purulia, Medinipur, and Debra.

Addressing a press conference, Adhikari accused the Mamata Banerjee-led government of "targeted harassment" of marginalised communities, particularly in the Jangal Mahal region.

"In the last one month alone, we have seen direct and indirect atrocities committed against tribal people. The tribal community is being neglected, tortured, and denied justice," Adhikari said. "We are collecting evidence and will move to court. If necessary, we will also meet the Governor."

List of alleged incidents presented by BJP:

1. Purulia – Alleged atrocities on tribal women.
2. Medinipur – A tribal football referee was beaten by a Trinamool leader; while the accused was arrested, he was soon granted bail.
3. Jhargram – Subal Soren reportedly died of a stroke after losing his job, which BJP calls a case of "institutional murder."
4. Debra – BJP claims Dr Soren was killed by the police under suspicious circumstances.
5. Purulia – Tribal youth Dhananjay was allegedly tortured by individuals belonging to a particular religious community.

The BJP has accused the state administration of failing to act decisively in these cases and pledged to raise these matters at both judicial and constitutional forums.

“Tribals are the original inhabitants of this land. Their rights must be protected, and we will not allow their voices to be silenced,” Adhikari asserted.

JANGAL MAHAL IN FOCUS AGAIN

The tribal-dominated districts of Purulia, Jhargram, Bankura, and West Medinipur, collectively known as Jangal Mahal, are strategically significant. BJP had made significant inroads in this belt during the 2021 Assembly elections, securing a large number of seats. However, by 2024, the Trinamool Congress had managed to regain considerable ground in these regions.

Sensing a shift in political momentum, the BJP appears to be recalibrating its strategy by highlighting tribal issues ahead of the 2026 polls. Party sources indicate that a large-scale movement is in the works, with planned outreach programs, protests, and legal interventions.

- Ends

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