Israeli Flag at Ram Navami Rally Sparks Row in West Bengal
BJP faces backlash after an Israeli flag was seen at a Ram Navami rally in Bhatpara, West Bengal. TMC demands legal action; BJP hits back at govt.
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Bhatpara/Kolkata: A major political controversy has erupted in West Bengal after an Israeli flag was allegedly waved during a Ram Navami rally in Bhatpara, North 24 Parganas district, on Sunday, April 6. The rally, reportedly led by former BJP MP Arjun Singh, has now become the centre of a heated political war between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress (TMC), according to a report by The Hindu.
Trinamool Congress MLA Somenath Shyam Ichini lodged a police complaint on Monday evening against Arjun Singh and BJP leader Priyangu Pandey. In his complaint, he alleged that the act was a “deliberate attempt to harm Bengal’s communal harmony and disturb peace and religious unity.” He also demanded strict legal action, calling the act a "heinous crime".
The MLA further accused BJP leaders of promoting provocation and trying to spread tension in the area.
As per media reports, Arjun Singh responded to the allegations by hitting back at the Mamata Banerjee-led government. He questioned why waving the Israeli flag was considered wrong when the Palestinian flag was seen during a Muharram procession in Kankinara, but no action was taken. “Is there one rule for BJP supporters and another for others?” he asked.
Adding to the controversy, Mr. Singh was also seen carrying an axe during a Ram Navami rally in nearby Kankinara the same day, raising more eyebrows and criticism from the ruling party.
The use of foreign flags in political movements has a long history in Kolkata. From the red flags of the USSR to Cuban and Palestinian flags in past protests, the city has witnessed varied political symbolism. However, in recent times, such acts have become sensitive. For example, in Uttar Pradesh, a power worker was suspended for hoisting a foreign flag. Similarly, during the 2023 Cricket World Cup, a fan waving the Palestinian flag at Eden Gardens was arrested.
This incident in Bhatpara now raises larger questions about political symbolism, freedom of expression, and selective outrage in Indian politics.
