Shuvendu Adhikari’s Controversial Statement: A Political Firestorm in Bengal
West Bengal’s Opposition Leader and BJP leader Shuvendu Adhikari has sparked controversy by openly stating that he is “not an MLA for all but only for Hindus.” Speaking at a Shivratri event in Sonachura, Nandigram, on Wednesday evening, Adhikari emphasized his commitment to Hindu causes and temple construction.
He declared, “I am Shuvendu Adhikari. I am not an MLA for all. Hindus have made me an MLA, and I am the MLA of Hindus. I will build more temples. On April 6, we will begin constructing a Ram Temple on three and a half bighas of land in Sonachura.”
His remarks have ignited a fierce political debate, with accusations that he is using religious polarization to gain electoral advantages ahead of the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections.
TMC and CPM Slam Shuvendu’s Remarks
Reacting to Adhikari’s statement, TMC’s Nandigram Block 1 President Bappaditya Garg strongly condemned the remarks. He said, “India is a secular country, as clearly stated in our Constitution. By making such statements, Shuvendu Adhikari is trying to portray himself as the king of Hindus. His real agenda is to incite communal violence. If needed, we will take legal action.”
CPI(M) leader Paritosh Pattanaik, the in-charge of Nandigram, also criticized Adhikari’s statement, calling it “a shame to parliamentary democracy.” He stated, “After winning elections, an MLA or MP represents all people, not just a specific religious community. Shuvendu Adhikari’s comment is a deliberate attempt to spread communal hatred and disrupt social harmony. We strongly condemn him.”
BJP’s Hindutva Strategy for 2026 Bengal Elections?
BJP has often been accused of using Hindutva politics to consolidate Hindu votes in Bengal. Political analysts believe that Adhikari’s recent statement is a direct attempt to mobilize Hindu voters ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
BJP insiders claim that the party aims to establish itself as the sole representative of Hindus in Bengal, where religious polarization has been a key factor in recent elections. The Ram Temple construction announcement in Sonachura is also seen as a move to boost the party’s religious appeal.
Legal and Political Implications
Shuvendu Adhikari’s statement has raised serious questions about violations of India’s secular principles enshrined in the Constitution. Political opponents are considering legal action against him for making remarks that could incite communal tensions.
With 2026 elections approaching, this controversy is expected to shape Bengal’s political landscape significantly. Will BJP’s Hindutva strategy work in Bengal, or will it backfire? Only time will tell.