Nahid Islam, the Opposition Chief Whip of Bangladesh’s National Citizens Party, has alleged that Muslims and members of the Matua community in West Bengal faced persecution and denial of rights following the recent Assembly elections. Speaking at a party programme in Chittagong, Nahid said that lakhs of voters, particularly Muslims and Matuas, were allegedly deprived of their voting rights before the polls. He further claimed that members of these communities continued to face harassment and discrimination even after the election results. His remarks, delivered during a public address, have since circulated widely online through viral video clips. Nahid stated that although the elections were India’s internal matter, developments in West Bengal remained important for Bangladesh. He said the situation should serve as a reminder of the importance of minority protection in the region.
During his speech, Nahid alleged that Muslims were being denied citizenship and subjected to mistreatment after the elections. He also claimed that Matuas and Dalits were among the communities facing continued persecution. Referring to the developments as concerning, he said Bangladesh must ensure that all religious and social groups inside the country receive equal rights and protection. He argued that Bangladesh should set an example in South Asia by safeguarding peaceful coexistence among minorities and majorities alike. Nahid also warned against what he described as “anti-Bangladesh” narratives and urged citizens to remain alert to communal provocation and propaganda. According to him, communal tensions in neighbouring regions could indirectly affect social harmony within Bangladesh. His remarks appeared aimed at reinforcing the party’s emphasis on minority rights and national unity.
Nahid also used the occasion to address internal matters within his political party. He urged members of the National Citizen Party to avoid factionalism and internal divisions while strengthening the organisation through merit and discipline. He stressed that individuals involved in earlier political movements should not be excluded from future political processes. According to him, ensuring representation and protecting the rights of grassroots activists would be essential for the party’s future direction. The speech combined criticism of developments outside Bangladesh with calls for internal organisational unity. Political observers noted that the remarks reflected the NCP’s attempt to position itself as a defender of minority rights and democratic participation. The comments have since attracted attention in both Bangladesh and India due to their references to West Bengal politics.
The remarks come at a time when political and communal developments in border regions are being closely watched by both countries. West Bengal has remained politically significant in discussions surrounding migration, citizenship and minority rights because of its proximity to Bangladesh and its large Muslim and Matua populations. The Matua community, many of whom are refugees or descendants of migrants from present-day Bangladesh, has been a major political factor in the state’s elections. Nahid’s comments are likely to add to the ongoing political debate surrounding citizenship and minority treatment in the region. So far, there has been no official response from Indian authorities regarding the allegations made during the speech. The controversy also comes amid broader discussions about communal harmony and cross-border political narratives between India and Bangladesh.
