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Who are Matuas-Namasudras? Citizenship, SIR and their role in West Bengal elections

| Apr 28, 2026, 08:58:48 PM | TOI.in
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Can a question around citizenship influence an election where only citizens can vote? In West Bengal, the issue goes beyond legal definitions. At the centre of this debate is the Matua–Namasudra community, a politically significant group with roots in present-day Bangladesh and influence across several key constituencies.As Bengal heads into a crucial phase of voting, concerns around citizenship status and voter lists have come into focus, especially in Matua-dominated regions. For many in the community, migration history, displacement, and identity remain deeply tied to how they view politics today. From social reform movements led by Harichand Thakur and Guruchand Thakur to post-Partition migration, their journey has shaped a distinct political consciousness.More recently, the revision of electoral rolls, often referred to as SIR, has sparked political debate. Opposition parties have raised concerns over deletions of names, including in Matua-heavy areas, while the issue of citizenship documentation continues to remain sensitive for sections of the community.With competing political narratives around identity, documentation, and inclusion, the Matua vote is once again in focus.In closely contested seats, even a small shift in this community’s voting preference could influence outcomes. Because in Bengal, elections are not just about numbers. They are about identity, trust, and who people believe will safeguard both.

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