Delhi Police Slammed for Calling Bengali ‘Bangladeshi Language’

The Tipra Motha Party (TMP), a key ally of the BJP in Tripura, has sharply criticized the Delhi Police for referring to Bengali as a “Bangladeshi language” in a recent letter. The controversial communication, sent to the officer-in-charge of Banga Bhavan, West Bengal’s guest house in Delhi, requested a translator for documents written in what the police called “Bangladeshi language” for a Foreigners’ Act investigation.

TMP leader Pradyot Debbarma expressed outrage on X, stating, “Referring to Bengali as a ‘Bangladeshi language’ by Delhi Police is deeply concerning. There is no such thing called Bangladeshi language.” He highlighted the cultural significance of Bengali, noting that India’s national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, was composed in Bengali by Rabindranath Tagore. Debbarma warned that such missteps fuel extremist narratives and harm India’s image, citing figures like Md. Yunus.

While opposing the imposition of any language, Debbarma emphasized respect for all Indian languages, including Kokborok, Bengali, Tamil, Assamese, Mizo, Bodo, Hindi, and English. The TMP, part of Tripura’s BJP-led government, underscored the need for linguistic unity.

Also Read: Court Clears AAP's Jain in PWD Corruption Case

The controversy also drew ire from other leaders. Jitendra Chaudhury, CPI(M) Leader of the Opposition in Tripura, condemned the Delhi Police’s “ignorance,” accusing the BJP of promoting a divisive “Hindi-Hindu-Hindustan” agenda. He noted that Bengali is recognized in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also slammed the Delhi Police, calling the reference “insulting, anti-national, and unconstitutional.” The incident has sparked widespread debate, raising questions about cultural sensitivity and the recognition of India’s diverse linguistic heritage.

Also Read: DTC Bus Crash Kills Elderly Driver!