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Fish Furore Fuels Fierce Election in India's West Bengal

As West Bengal gears up for polls on April 23 and 29, the state of over 100 million people has turned fish into political ammunition. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, leader of the All India Trinamool Congress , warned the Bharatiya Janata Party would "ban fish, meat and even eggs."
Fears of a ban stem from the BJP's promotion of vegetarianism and dietary restrictions imposed in states like Bihar and Assam. BJP leadership denied these claims, asserting the party has no intention of imposing dietary restrictions if elected to power.
Former university vice-chancellor Sabyasachi Basu Ray Chaudhury said, "Fish is important to Bengali culture and cuisine, serving both as a daily staple and a celebrated delicacy." Teacher Sumita Dutta added locals would revolt if restrictions were imposed.
BJP state chief Samik Bhattacharya told AFP the campaign aims to "counter the TMC" and "address the debate on food habits." BJP candidate Sharadwat Mukhopadhyay went viral canvassing with a fish in his hand.
"Emotions and identity are becoming a part of the political campaign," Ray Chaudhury said. As the state of over 100 million prepares for polls, food choices appear likely to influence voter sentiment.

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