Political clash between two states reignites NRC controversy
The Assam NRC Mamata Banerjee controversy has intensified after Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma slammed Banerjee for her recent remarks. She criticized the National Register of Citizens (NRC), calling it “inhuman and divisive.” Sarma immediately fired back, asking, “Who has asked her to obey NRC?” and accused her of meddling in Assam’s legal affairs.
This heated exchange marks yet another chapter in the political tension between Assam and West Bengal over identity, citizenship, and migration.
Mamata Banerjee’s Attack on Assam NRC
During a rally in Kolkata, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee harshly criticized the Assam NRC process. She labeled it a “tool of exclusion” and claimed that it left nearly 1.9 million people stateless, many of whom were genuine citizens. Banerjee declared that such a process would “never be implemented in Bengal.”
Her statement quickly gained attention and sparked strong reactions across political lines.
Himanta Sarma Defends NRC, Blasts Mamata Banerjee
Within hours, Himanta Sarma addressed the media in Guwahati. He dismissed Banerjee’s comments and asserted that the NRC in Assam was a Supreme Court-directed process, not a political project. “Why should she worry about Assam? No one asked her to obey NRC,” Sarma said.
He also pointed out Banerjee’s own governance challenges, suggesting she focus on her state’s internal issues instead of interfering with Assam’s judicial matters.
“Mamata Banerjee is not bound by Assam’s NRC. She should concentrate on Bengal, not Assam’s legal framework.” – Himanta Biswa Sarma
Understanding the Assam NRC
The Assam National Register of Citizens (NRC) was developed to identify Indian citizens and detect undocumented immigrants. It specifically targets people who entered Assam from Bangladesh after March 24, 1971.
In August 2019, authorities released the final NRC list, excluding 1.9 million applicants. Many affected individuals still live in uncertainty, despite possessing identity documents.
Assam NRC Mamata Banerjee Dispute: Legal vs Political Narrative
The Assam NRC Mamata Banerjee clash reflects a broader struggle between legal governance and political messaging. The NRC process in Assam followed Supreme Court orders, and does not require other states to implement it. However, Banerjee uses the issue to strengthen her political position among minority and migrant communities in Bengal.
Sarma accused her of using NRC fears to gain electoral advantage ahead of the 2026 West Bengal elections.
Public Reaction and Social Media Trends
The public response to this latest exchange has been explosive. Hashtags like #AssamNRC, #MamataBanerjee, and #HimantaSarma trended for hours across X and Instagram.
Some praised Sarma’s bold stance. Others criticized both leaders for politicizing a humanitarian issue. Civil society organizations have urged restraint and called for a more compassionate approach to those excluded from the NRC.
What’s Next for Assam NRC and National Impact?
Though the final list was published, the Registrar General of India has not officially notified it. This leaves the status of 1.9 million excluded individuals uncertain. Many are still appealing their exclusion through Foreigners Tribunals.
Meanwhile, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), passed in 2019, adds complexity. Though not yet implemented nationwide, it remains closely linked with NRC in public debate. The current political climate suggests the NRC issue could flare up again in the near future.
Key Takeaways from the Assam NRC Mamata Banerjee Clash
- The NRC process in Assam is court-ordered, not a political tool.
- Mamata Banerjee continues to oppose NRC, using it to connect with minority voters.
- Himanta Sarma maintains that Bengal has no role in Assam’s legal matters.
- The final NRC list remains unnotified, keeping millions in limbo.
- The NRC-CAA combination continues to be a potential flashpoint for future elections.
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