Bengal CM to provide CAA citizenship to 2.5 lakh petitioners by Dec 31
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari promised to expedite hearings and announced a Rs 50 crore grant for the Matua community.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said on Sunday that his government will complete hearings and issue citizenship certificates to approximately 2.5 lakh CAA applicants in the state by December 31. Speaking at the International Matua Gosai Convention 2026 in Thakurnagar, North 24 Parganas, Adhikari stated that no eligible applicant would be left out, according to ThePrint.
The Chief Minister noted that only 25,000 people have received citizenship certificates under the Citizenship Amendment Act in West Bengal so far. He added that members of the Scheduled Caste community, specifically Namasudras, would receive SC certificates without delay once they obtain citizenship.
Adhikari also pledged a Rs 50 crore fund for the development of the Matua community within the current financial year. He further promised to restructure the Matua Development Board during the same period.
The Chief Minister credited the Matua community's support for the BJP's electoral victories in the state. He accused former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of opposing the CAA and neglecting the community.
Adhikari said the administration has issued guidelines following consultations with the Union Home Ministry and state officials. He also mentioned that the government would help those receiving certificates to enroll in electoral rolls during the special revision starting in January.