Kolkata Beef Row YouTuber, Influencers Funded by BJP During Bengal Polls: TMC Alleges

Trinamool Congress MLA Kunal Ghosh on Wednesday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of funding YouTubers, social media influencers, radio jockeys, and actors during the West Bengal elections to manufacture a narrative of religious polarisation. Ghosh cited payment records, alleging that the YouTuber behind the recent Kolkata restaurant beef row was among those who received funds from the BJP. The accusation has reignited a political row over the use of paid influencers in election campaigns.

According to Ghosh, the payments were made to amplify divisive content and influence public opinion ahead of the polls. He claimed that the BJP's strategy involved creating communal tension through coordinated social media campaigns. BJP state spokesperson Debjit Sarkar defended the payments, stating that the party played by the book and that all transactions were legitimate. Sarkar dismissed the allegations as baseless and politically motivated.

The controversy raises questions about transparency in political funding and the role of social media in elections. It also highlights the growing influence of digital creators in shaping political narratives. With the West Bengal elections already marred by allegations of misinformation, this latest accusation could further polarise the political landscape. The Election Commission has not yet commented on the matter, and it remains to be seen whether an investigation will be initiated.