BJP's posters indicate religious polarization in West Bengal

In West Bengal, the upcoming elections in 2026 are already stirring controversy due to new posters. These posters, supporting Hindu unity and the BJP, have appeared in areas like Bankura and Chuchura Hooghly. They state, “Hindu Hindu bhai bhai, 2026 BJP Chai,” which translates to “Hindus are brothers, we want BJP in 2026.” Suresh Shau, a local BJP member, claims that the rise of “Jihadi activities” and recent incidents of idol desecration justify the call for unity among Hindus. He argues that these events underline the need for a united front. Locket Chatterjee, a BJP candidate, has distanced the party from these posters, suggesting the sentiment reflects a broader national trend towards Hindutva following the Maha Kumbh gathering. Political analysts warn that the 2026 elections could turn into a “Dharmayudh,” or religious war, mainly between the BJP and the ruling TMC party. With over 30 percent of Bengal’s population being minorities, analysts think the BJP's religious focus is a tactic to secure the Hindu majority vote. TMC leaders have criticized the BJP's approach. Minister Shobhondev Chatterjee believes the BJP's communal politics will not resonate with Bengal’s voters, as shown in past elections. In response to the BJP's posters, the TMC has created their own, questioning the government's neglect towards the state and highlighting issues like rising prices. TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee is facing criticism from the BJP for attending Iftar parties and visiting religious sites. She defends her actions, stating that her visits reflect Bengal's secular values. As the political climate intensifies, it remains unclear if the elections will indeed be driven by religious tensions.