BJP MP's ‘Mini Pakistan’ Remark On Bengal Land Sparks Govt-Oppn Clash In Rajya Sabha

A sharp political row erupted in the Rajya Sabha after BJP MP and West Bengal party president Samik Bhattacharya described an allegedly encroached government land parcel as “mini-Pakistan” during Question Hour. He raised concerns over the alleged illegal occupation of nearly 4,000 acres of government land near the Garden Reach area in Kolkata, stating the term had earlier been used by the city’s mayor. The remark prompted immediate protests from opposition members, who called it offensive and divisive. Minister of State Shantanu Thakur said the matter is pending in court and referred to the mayor’s earlier comment. NCP-SCP MP Fauzia Khan urged the Chairman to expunge the remark, while CPI(M) MP John Brittas criticised the language, warning it could have serious implications. The Chairman later stepped in to restore order amid sloganeering.