Kolkata: A recent social media post has triggered a heated political debate in West Bengal, alleging that a section of individuals from Bangladesh have obtained government benefits and voting rights by allegedly changing their religious identity and adopting Hindu Scheduled Caste surnames such as Sarkar, Mandal, and others.
According to the viral post, these alleged conversions on paper took place in districts like Murshidabad during the tenure of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government. The post claims that some individuals may have changed Arabic-origin surnames like Sheikh or Khan to access government schemes, voter benefits, or reservation categories meant for Hindu SC communities.
However, no official government agency or court has confirmed these allegations. The post, circulated widely on Facebook and other social platforms, includes video clips from a television segment but lacks verifiable data or official documentation.
Political analysts noted that the claims have emerged amid rising political tensions ahead of upcoming elections, where issues of identity, migration, and electoral integrity are increasingly being used in campaign narratives.
Government officials said no formal complaints have been filed with the State Election Commission or law enforcement agencies regarding large-scale identity fraud. Senior legal experts cautioned that allegations circulating without verification may harm social harmony and potentially incite communal tension.
A senior Kolkata-based legal analyst said, “Changing one’s religion or surname does not automatically qualify a person for Scheduled Caste certification. There are legal, constitutional, and documentary verification processes involved. Such claims must be investigated through proper legal channels, not social media.”
Meanwhile, local civil society groups and human rights activists urged for responsible reporting and social harmony, emphasizing that misinformation spread online should not be used to target any particular community.
Authorities are yet to officially respond on whether any inquiry will be initiated.
