BJP West Bengal chief warns against ‘azadi’ slogans during Kargil Vijay Diwas event

New Delhi: West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya has issued a stern warning against the raising of “Azadi” and “Kashmir Mange Azadi” slogans in Kolkata, calling for strict action against those found chanting what he described as anti-national slogans.

Speaking at an event marking Kargil Vijay Diwas, Bhattacharya said anti-national forces were once again attempting to gain ground and alleged that certain political groups had historically sought to divide the country.

“Anti-national forces have resurfaced. The communists wanted to break the country into multiple pieces. We have told the police that the law should take its own course,” he said.

Bhattacharya further stated that anyone raising slogans such as “Bharat Tere Tukde Honge” or “Kashmir Mange Azadi” should not be allowed to leave without facing legal consequences.

“We do not want anyone who raises such slogans to simply return home. They should have to face the consequences under the law,” he said.

His remarks came on the same day that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh delivered a strong message to Pakistan on the Kashmir issue during Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorations.

The comments have also revived the political debate in West Bengal over calls to prohibit the use of “Azadi” slogans during protests.

Earlier, Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari had also urged police to monitor demonstrations for anti-national slogans. He had said that while peaceful protests should be allowed, authorities should identify and take action against anyone raising slogans deemed to be against the nation.

“If people raise anti-national slogans after India gained independence in 1947, action should be taken,” Adhikari had said.

The remarks are expected to add to the ongoing political debate in West Bengal over freedom of expression, public protests, and the enforcement of laws relating to allegedly anti-national slogans.