Congress accuses BJP of targeting Bengali migrant workers, demands discussion in Parliament

The Congress on Wednesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led BJP government of inciting communal tensions by allegedly targeting migrant workers from West Bengal in the states where it is in power under the pretext of labelling them as “illegal migrants” from Bangladesh. The main Opposition party also sought a discussion over the issue during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament.

The Congress, in its statement, accused the BJP of “stooping to its lowest” and targeting Bengali migrant workers and hawker-traders, especially from Malda and Murshidabad.

“They are being beaten, harassed, arrested, and persecuted to the extent of being branded as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh,” the statement issued by the party stated.

The Congress called it a direct attack on the fundamental right of every Indian to move, live, and work freely in any part of the country under Article 19(1) of the Constitution.

“The Modi government is leaving no stone unturned to foment nationwide communal tensions and disharmony—out of sheer ingrained prejudice, which is at the heart of their divisive politics,” it said.

The Congress demanded that the issue be taken up in Parliament, saying it is a “pressing issue of injustice” to Indian citizens.

“We stand with every Indian in this fight for justice, dignity, and freedom,” it said.

India