Tensions boiled over in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly on Saturday, the budget session’s closing day. A privilege motion targeted BJP legislator Agnimitra Paul after her remarks reportedly offended minorities, prompting fierce backlash from her party colleagues.
Minister Sovandeo Chattopadhyay moved the proposal, igniting instant fury among BJP ranks. Lawmaker Mihir Goswami argued that Paul had already clarified her stance with the Speaker’s nod, calling the move politically motivated by minority cabinet members.
Protests escalated quickly: BJP MLAs raised placards inside, then stormed out chanting anti-government slogans. Their demonstration spilled onto the assembly grounds, amplifying the chaos.
In a separate development, lawmakers approved renaming Murshidabad University after Maharaja Krishnath, linked to the historic Krishnath College established in 1853. This institution pioneered social reforms and education in Berhampore, symbolizing cultural harmony.
The renaming restores a prestigious historical name, elevating the university’s stature and aligning it with Bengal’s educational heritage. Speaker Biman Banerjee dispatched the privilege matter to the committee for review.
This episode highlights recurring flashpoints in Bengal politics, where personal statements fuel partisan showdowns. With elections looming, such confrontations signal intensifying rivalries between TMC and BJP.