PM Modi in Bengal: Assures Right to Stay for Matua and Namashudra Communities, Signals BJP’s Electoral Strategy in Malda

Kolkata/Malda, January 17, 2026: Amid ongoing religious violence in neighboring Bangladesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to West Bengal assured refugees coming to India on account of religious persecution that they would receive full protection. Addressing a public rally in Malda, PM Modi emphasized that communities such as Matua and Namashudra, who fled neighboring countries due to communal violence, need not fear and have the constitutional right to reside in India.

Drawing a parallel with the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), PM Modi said, “Through CAA, we have provided complete protection to refugees. This is my guarantee.”

Political and Electoral Significance

At the Malda event, PM Modi inaugurated the Made-in-India Vande Bharat sleeper trains while taking a swipe at the West Bengal government led by Mamata Banerjee, describing it as “stone-hearted and ruthless.” He highlighted issues of illegal immigration and signaled BJP’s focus ahead of the upcoming assembly elections, promising that the party would restore Malda’s “old glory” and create new opportunities for farmers in the region.

Challenges Faced by the Matua Community

The Matua community, primarily Hindu refugees from Bangladesh (then East Pakistan) post-partition, has been residing in India for decades. While they possess documents such as Aadhaar and ration cards, many seek unconditional citizenship to secure their legal rights against future complications. Concerns have arisen following special intensive revisions (SIR) in voter lists in West Bengal, with fears that names of eligible voters from these communities could be removed. Under CAA, proof of residence in Bangladesh is required to apply, which many impoverished refugees lack. The Matua community is part of the Namashudra (Dalit) population in Bengal.

Illegal Immigration Must Be Addressed

PM Modi further stated that even wealthy nations are deporting illegal immigrants, and stressed that West Bengal must address illegal immigration. He urged the public to support BJP in upcoming elections, assuring that a BJP government would bring progress and new opportunities to the farmers of Malda.