Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday challenged Mamata Banerjee to a fish-eating contest, pushing back against Trinamool Congress’s claims that the BJP would put curbs on non-vegetarian food if it comes to power in the state.
Speaking at a rally in Kalna constituency, Sarma sought to reassure voters that the BJP does not interfere with dietary choices. He said that in BJP-ruled Assam, people consume fish and meat “with full relish”, rejecting allegations that the party promotes a vegetarian-only culture.
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He then invited Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to his home for the fish-eating contest, saying he would travel to her residence if needed.
“I want to ask Mamata didi to meet me and take part in a fish-eating competition. Be it rohu or ilish (hilsa), we can try them all. I will definitely eat 1 kg more than you do,” he said.
The remarks come against the backdrop of food habits, particularly the consumption of fish and meat, becoming a flashpoint in the high-stakes West Bengal assembly polls.
The ruling TMC has accused the BJP of threatening Bengal’s identity. Mamata Banerjee has warned at rallies that the saffron party would ban fish, meat and eggs, which are intrinsic to the state’s culinary traditions.
BJP leaders have countered with public displays of eating non-vegetarian food. Earlier, Nagaland Minister Temjen Imna Along declared, “I am in the BJP and a non-vegetarian by hobby,” while sharing a video of himself before a spread of meat dishes.
On Tuesday, BJP MP Anurag Thakur also joined party workers in Kolkata for a meal of ‘maach bhaat’, or fish curry with rice, during campaigning.
The TMC is seeking a fourth straight term in Bengal, while the BJP is looking to oust Mamata Banerjee by banking on issues like cross-border infiltration, Uniform Civil Code and law and order.
Voting in 152 constituencies across Bengal is scheduled for tomorrow, April 23, with a second phase on April 29. Counting of votes will take place on May 4.
Elections 2026 | West Bengal Election | West Bengal Election Constituencies | West Bengal Election Schedule
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
