Sandeshkhali controversy: TMC MP Nusrat Jahan's remark raises questions about party's priorities for voters

Trinamool Congress (TMC) Nusrat Jahan MP. (File photo)

Political experts draw parallels between the recent Sandeshkhali controversy and the protests in Singur and Nandigram during 2007-2008, noting their significance in Bengal's political landscape. Led by Mamata Banerjee, the protests in Singur and Nandigram symbolised grassroots resistance against the CPM-led Left Front government's policies on land acquisition and industrialisation. They catalysed widespread discontent and contributed to a significant political shift in the state.

Political Activism and Desire for Change

The ongoing protests in Sandeshkhali and their resemblance to past events highlight the enduring impact of grassroots movements and the evolving political dynamics in West Bengal. They serve as a reminder of the state's history of political activism and the ongoing quest for change.

Also Read | Sandeshkhali row: No stay on Shahjahan Sheikh’s arrest, says Calcutta HC

Nusrat Defends Actions Amid Criticism

Meanwhile, Nusrat Jahan, a Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP and a well-known Bengali cinema actor, has recently spoken out to address criticisms concerning her perceived absence and silence regarding the Sandeshkhali issue within her Lok Sabha constituency. In response, she defended her actions by affirming her adherence to her party's directives and her dedicated service to her constituents. Emphasising her unwavering commitment to denounce wrongdoing, she reiterated her stance against any injustices or concerns affecting her electorate.

Also Read | How badly will Sandeshkhali hurt Mamata Banerjee in the upcoming elections?

The TMC MP's remark has raised questions about whether she suggested that the lack of clear directives from her party hindered her from visiting her constituency.

“It is heart wrenching waking up to such allegations (of truancy). As a woman, as a public representative I have always followed my party guidelines and served people,” Nusrat, 34, wrote on social media platform X.

It is heart wrenching waking up to such allegations. As a woman, as a public representative I have always followed my parties guidelines and served the people. With the Sandeshkhali incident raging, Our Hon CM has already send Help.. and necessary steps are being taken for the… pic.twitter.com/KrqOeSvWU0

— Nussrat Jahan (@nusratchirps) February 25, 2024

Women-led Protests Escalate Amid Allegations Against TMC Leader

Since February 7, various areas of Sandeshkhali have witnessed intense protests, largely led by women, who allege involvement in land grabbing, violent incidents, and sexual assaults by fugitive Trinamul leader Sheikh Shahjahan and his associates Shib Prasad Hazra and Uttam Sardar. While Hazra and Sardar have been arrested and are facing charges, including gang rape, Shahjahan's evasion of law enforcement has fuelled ongoing unrest and demands for justice in the area.

Nusrat Under Fire Amid Sandeshkhali Crisis

Nusrat has faced criticism from several local publications for what is perceived as her detachment during times of crisis, sparking concerns about a growing disconnect between her and her constituency. Villagers have expressed disappointment, noting that despite campaign promises, the TMC MP has not visited Sandeshkhali—which comes under her Lok Sabha constituency—in the last five years except for campaign rallies. This apparent absence, particularly during challenging times, has left many feeling disenchanted.

Also Read | Sheikh Shahjahan: From humble driver to controversial TMC strongman, key figure in Sandeshkhali row

Even influential figures within the TMC, such as Sandeshkhali MLA Sukumar Mahato, acknowledge that Nusrat's absence has weakened the party's bond with its constituents.

Doubts Persist on Nusrat's Remark Efficacy

While reports suggest that Nusrat's recent statement, urging cooperation with the administration and discouraging politicisation of the issue, may be construed as an attempt to address the situation, doubts persist regarding its efficacy. There remains uncertainty regarding whether such statements can adequately redress the grievances of the villagers and bridge the trust gap between the MP and her voters.

Analysts Highlight Need for Sustained Effort

Analysts are of the view that rebuilding trust and credibility requires sustained effort, transparency, and genuine empathy for the concerns of the community. The TMC MP will need to demonstrate a genuine commitment to serving her constituents and actively working towards their welfare to mend the trust deficit and regain their support.

Nusrat Under ED Scrutiny

Last year, Nusrat was summoned to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) office in Kolkata concerning her role as a director in a dubious financial entity. The entity was alleged to have defrauded senior citizens with deceptive promises of affordable residential flats, involving crores of rupees.

BJP Accuses TMC MP of Misplaced Priorities

The BJP's criticism of the TMC MP's conduct during the Sandeshkhali crisis reflects their ongoing campaign to hold the ruling party accountable for governance and public safety concerns. By highlighting Nusrat's Valentine's Day photoshoot amid serious protests in Sandeshkhali, the BJP seeks to underscore what they perceive as misplaced priorities within the TMC leadership.

BJP Highlights Corruption, Lawlessness Under Mamata's Rule

The BJP's allegations against the Mamata Banerjee administration, particularly regarding the purported shielding of Shahjahan, serve to reinforce their broader concern of portraying the ruling party as corrupt and ineffective in maintaining law and order. This incident, along with accusations of lawlessness and attacks on law enforcement officers by alleged supporters of Shahjahan, provides ammunition for the BJP to flay the TMC government's governance and highlight what they perceive as a deteriorating law and order situation in the state.

In a nutshell, the BJP's criticism aims to keep the focus on governance issues and maintain pressure on the TMC government, particularly following the Sandeshkhali controversy and allegations of corruption and criminality.