A political controversy has erupted in West Bengal ahead of Trinamool Congress (TMC) national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee's scheduled visit to Thakurbari in Nadia district. The visit, set for January 9, is to offer prayers at the revered Harichand–Guruchand Thakur temple.
Union Minister's Stark Warning
Junior Union minister and BJP leader Shantanu Thakur has publicly stated that Banerjee will not be permitted to enter the temple premises if he arrives with a heavy police security detail. Thakur, who also serves as the sanghadhipati (president) of the BJP-led faction of the All India Matua Mahasangh, issued this challenge to the senior TMC leader.
"I will see how many police personnel he brings. Thousands of Matuas will gather that day and protest marches will be taken out," Thakur told the media. He later attempted to clarify his stance, saying he was not against anyone entering a temple but was objecting to the display of power. "Banerjee comes with a heavy police force to show power. If he does so, we will not allow him to offer prayers. Why does he want to come just before elections?" Thakur questioned.
TMC's Firm Rebuttal and Itinerary
The Trinamool Congress swiftly countered the BJP leader's remarks, defending Abhishek Banerjee's right to visit the pilgrimage site. According to party sources, Banerjee's schedule for January 9 includes addressing a public meeting first at Taherpur in Nadia, followed by the visit to Thakurbari around 2 pm.
Jay Prakash Majumdar, TMC state vice-president, dismissed the need for a large police escort. "Why would Abhishek Banerjee go with police? He will go with the people. Harichand Thakur spoke of harmony and devotion, not conflict," Majumdar stated.
Echoing this sentiment, Biswajit Das, TMC Bongaon organisational district president, asserted, "Everyone has the right to visit a place of pilgrimage." He accused the BJP of attempting to obstruct Banerjee's visit for political gains.
Election Season Tensions Rise
This exchange highlights the escalating political tensions in Bengal as the Lok Sabha elections approach. The Matua community, a significant demographic in several parliamentary constituencies, is a key vote bank both parties are keen to secure. The Thakurbari temple, dedicated to the founders of the Matua sect, Harichand and Guruchand Thakur, is a deeply symbolic location.
Shantanu Thakur's comments, linking the visit to the election timing, underscore the political significance being attached to the religious event. The TMC's response frames the issue as one of religious freedom and right to worship, accusing the BJP of creating unnecessary hurdles.
The stage is now set for a potentially tense showdown on January 9 in Thakurbari, with the visit likely to be closely watched as a barometer of the political climate in the state.
