Bengal BJP MLA Vows to Deny Services to Muslims Who Didn’t Vote for Him

Newly elected BJP MLA Ritesh Tiwari from West Bengal’s Kashipur-Belgachia constituency has sparked widespread outrage after declaring that he will refuse to provide services or work for Muslim residents in his area for the next five years — because they did not vote for him.

A Public Oath Before His Supporters

Addressing a public gathering shortly after the 2026 West Bengal Assembly election results, Tiwari stated, “Those who voted for me have a right over me.” He went further, invoking the name of Baba Bholenath as a witness to his pledge, saying he would not issue a single government certificate or carry out any work for those who withheld their support. The declaration was met with cheers from his supporters but drew immediate criticism from political opponents and civil society groups.

Tiwari claimed to be the first candidate in the constituency in several decades to have received no Muslim votes whatsoever — a fact he appeared to wear as a badge of honour rather than a cause for reflection.

A Landslide Win Amid Communal Undertones

Despite the controversy, Tiwari secured a commanding victory, defeating TMC leader and Kolkata Municipal Corporation Deputy Mayor with over 68,368 votes. His win marks a significant shift in the constituency’s political landscape.

Critics argue that an elected representative has a constitutional duty to serve all residents equally, regardless of voting preference or religious identity, raising serious questions about the role of communal politics in India’s democracy.