Kolkata: The West Bengal unit of BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) today (Sep 9, 2004) voiced concern over the growth in Muslim population in the State in comparison to Hindus and said that two districts accounted for as high as 48 per cent and 61 per cent Muslims.

''There was 37 per cent growth in Muslim population in West Bengal between 1981 to 1991 which was more than 33 per cent growth recorded at the all India level,'' State BJP president Tathagata Roy told a press conference in Kolkata.

Quoting from the book 'Religious Demography of India' published by the Centre for Policy Studies, he said that in at least five districts in the State, including Birbhum, Purulia, Bankura, which were not bordering districts, Muslims accounted for over 30 per cent.

The State BJP chief said that the rise in the Muslim population was to a great due to infiltration from Bangladesh.

He said that to maintain secular character of the country, a Hindu majority was necessary.

Stating that the growth in the Muslim population was a cause for worry, Roy said that the Muslims had carved out Pakistan when they accounted for 24 per cent of the total population.

Asked whether he considered the Muslims as non-secular, Roy said that some Muslims were indeed secular.

He also said that the Government should ban books, which openly advocated against birth control.

To a question that Mother Teresa had also preached against birth control, Roy said, "On that count she had worked against the interest of the country. But her work for the orphans and destitute should be lauded.''