HYDERABAD: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has made a bold declaration that the Waqf amended Act introduced by the BJP-led central government will not be implemented in her state. Speaking at an event organised by the Jain community in Kolkata, she said that minorities were deeply dissatisfied with the new legislation.
Mamata Banerjee asserted that she would protect the rights and properties of minority communities and added that Bengal would not accept policies aimed at dividing people. She urged the public to trust her leadership and emphasised unity, urging citizens to reject those who provoke political unrest.
Reaction to violence and minority concerns
Referring to recent violence in Murshidabad district linked to the Waqf Bill, the Chief Minister said that it was inappropriate to pass such a bill at this time. “Just look at the situation in Bangladesh. Was this the right time to bring such a bill?” she asked, highlighting the sensitivities surrounding the issue.
Banerjee pointed out that minorities constitute 33 percent of West Bengal’s population and questioned, “What should I do in this situation to protect them?” She reiterated her commitment to safeguarding the interests of all who have chosen to live in the state.
Emphasis on unity and historical context
Drawing on history, Mamata said that Bengal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India were once a united entity before partition, and it is now the collective responsibility of the people to ensure the safety of those who wish to reside in West Bengal.
She concluded by calling for collective strength and solidarity among the people, asserting that anything is possible when society stands united.
