BJP leader Amit Malviya booked for provocative post on social media
Kolkata: An FIR has been filed against Bharathiya Janatha Party (BJP) leader Amit Malviya for allegedly posting a provocative statement on social media, which reportedly threatened communal harmony and the sovereignty of the nation.
The case was filed at the Narendrapur Police Station on the basis of a complaint lodged by All India Trinamool Congress leader and state general secretary Tanmay Ghosh.
According to police sources, the complaint alleges that on December 19, Malviya posted a provocative statement on the social media platform ‘X’ (formerly Twitter), which Tanmay Ghosh claims is aimed at instigating communal tension and jeopardizing the unity of the country.
In the complaint, Ghosh specifically cited the post as a formal incitement against communal peace and national sovereignty. Tanmay Ghosh, in his complaint, further accused Malviya of disrespecting West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee by sharing this post.
The complaint asserts that legal action should be taken against the BJP leader under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), as well as other related laws.
What did Malviya’s post say?
Malviya’s controversial post on ‘X’ read, “Last night, Islamic groups demolished the historical building ‘Chhayanaut Bhavan’ in Dhaka, Bangladesh, which was the foundation of Bengali art and culture.
The attacks on media houses, journalists, and cultural centers under Islamic pressure and threats in Bangladesh are a clear indication of what is happening there. This act of violence in Bangladesh is a wake-up call.”
In his post, Malviya further criticized Mamata Banerjee’s government in West Bengal, stating, “The West Bengal government, under Mamata Banerjee, is deeply concerned about the happenings in Bangladesh.
If Banerjee’s weak administration continues beyond 2026, no one will be able to change the situation in Bengal. In a state ruled by groups, culture, free expression, and democracy will not survive.”
Political fallout
Malviya’s remarks have sparked sharp reactions from political opponents, with many accusing him of making divisive statements aimed at stoking religious tensions. The post has triggered a political storm in the state, with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders demanding immediate action against the BJP leader.
This is not the first time Malviya has come under scrutiny for his statements. Known for his provocative remarks, the BJP leader has previously been involved in several controversies related to social media posts that critics argue contribute to deepening communal divides.
The incident highlights the growing tension surrounding social media statements and the challenges authorities face in balancing freedom of speech with the need to maintain public order and harmony.
Malviya’s post and the subsequent FIR have intensified the political debate on social media responsibility, with calls for stronger regulation of such platforms to prevent hate speech and incitement to violence.
In the coming days, the case is expected to attract significant political attention, especially with the state elections approaching. Both the ruling TMC and the opposition BJP are likely to use this issue as a point of contention in their campaigns.
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