Malda Migrant Worker’s Family Alleges Harassment by Delhi Police, Backs Mamata

Quick Summary

• Sanjur Parveen and her family,Bengali-speaking migrant workers from Malda district in West Bengal,alleged harassment by individuals posing as Delhi police personnel.
• During a press conference at the Trinamool Congress party office in Kolkata, the family claimed to have been called “Bangladeshis,” asked for ₹25,000, and were pressured to chant “Jai Shri Ram.”
• Parveen said her child was assaulted when she refused and asserted her identity as an Indian citizen.
• West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had earlier shared a video alleging Delhi police’s involvement in assaulting migrants; however, Delhi Police stated that the video was fabricated and politically motivated.
• The TMC claims 300 migrant workers returned to West Bengal after fleeing Haryana due to alleged harassment by police who accused them of being “Bangladeshi nationals” despite having proper documentation.
• BJP countered this claim by urging TMC to officially lodge complaints if credible evidence exists.

Indian Opinion Analysis

This incident underscores existing challenges surrounding migrant communities’ treatment across various states. While the contrasting narratives from political parties-Trinamool Congress accusing targeted harassment against Bengali workers and BJP questioning these assertions-reflect deepening partisan divides over migration issues, it raises broader concerns regarding identification practices tied to citizenship documentation.

migrant populations often face vulnerabilities amid strained regional dynamics. Such allegations of religious or racial discrimination could contribute further distrust among minority groups. State governments must engage impartial investigative mechanisms rather than escalating rhetoric for political leverage. Clear procedural transparency may prevent incidents of false accusations while ensuring social harmony among diverse communities within India.

For more details: The Hindu