A family feud within West Bengal's influential Matua community has erupted between two brothers, both prominent figures in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The public dispute involves Shantanu Thakur, a Union Minister of State, and his elder brother Subrata Thakur, a BJP Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA). This intra-party conflict has stirred unease within the BJP, especially with crucial Assembly polls approaching.

The core of the conflict appears to stem from a power struggle and differing approaches to community affairs, specifically regarding the issuance of "Matua cards" or "Hindu certificates". These documents have gained importance amid concerns about a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and the anticipation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) implementation. Millions of Matuas, many of whom migrated from present-day Bangladesh, see these papers as a potential pathway to securing citizenship. Subrata Thakur has accused his brother of monopolizing power within the community and exploiting religious sentiments for political gain. Shantanu Thakur, on the other hand, has alleged that his brother is driven by "political jealousy" and is seeking an opportunity to join the Trinamool Congress (TMC). He also accused Subrata of running an extortion ring and embezzling money from the Matua Mahasangha.

The dispute escalated when Shantanu's supporters organized a camp at the Nat Mandir in Thakurnagar, the religious and cultural center of the Matua community, to assist community members with CAA applications. Subrata objected to the use of the temple for these activities, arguing that it should be reserved for religious and cultural purposes. He also alleged that Shantanu had forcibly taken control of the Harichand-Guruchand temple, restricting access to his own supporters. These actions have further deepened the divide within the Thakur family, with their parents taking opposing sides. Their mother, Chhabirani, and aunt, Mamata Bala Thakur (a TMC MP), have sided with Subrata, while their father, Manjul Krishna Thakur, has defended Shantanu.

The Matua community holds significant political sway in West Bengal, with estimates suggesting they comprise 17% to 20% of the state's voters and influence the outcome in 30 to 45 Assembly seats. Both the BJP and the TMC have historically vied for the support of this community, making the current feud a matter of serious concern for the BJP. The BJP leadership has reportedly instructed local leaders to refrain from publicly discussing the dispute, recognizing the importance of both Shantanu and Subrata to the party's electoral prospects. Political analysts believe that a prolonged rupture within the Thakur family could alienate sections of the Matua electorate and weaken the BJP's position in the upcoming elections. The TMC, meanwhile, is closely watching the situation, hoping to capitalize on the discord within the BJP.

The Matua Mahasangha, a socio-religious organization that represents the community, is also facing internal conflicts as a result of the feud. Both Shantanu and Subrata claim the right to lead the community, further complicating the situation. The organization has been instrumental in advocating for the rights and citizenship of Matuas, particularly in relation to the CAA.