West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday expressed concern over the reported ‘torture’ of minorities in neighboring Bangladesh, calling it unacceptable. Speaking in the West Bengal legislative assembly, Banerjee stated that the violence in Bangladesh is perpetrated by “dangerous anti-social elements.”
“The way minorities are being tortured in Bangladesh is not acceptable to any of us. Communal violence is not done by Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, or Christians—it is done by dangerous antisocial elements who are a burden on society,” CM Banerjee said. She urged people not to make statements that could escalate the situation in West Bengal.
Banerjee further emphasized that West Bengal sets an example of secularism, highlighting the state’s harmonious spirit. “I am thankful that while Hindus are protesting, Imams also held a press conference to unequivocally and vehemently condemn the atrocities against minorities in Bangladesh. This just shows that Bengal is first when it comes to showing an example of secularism,” she said.
She reiterated her stance on peace, stressing that her administration desires no riots and that “our blood is the same.”
The Chief Minister also appealed for restraint, urging people to avoid misinformation and refrain from making statements that could threaten the peace in the region. “We are not in favour of one group; everyone cares for everyone here. Let the Government of India decide on the Bangladesh matter. We should not make unnecessary statements that may threaten the situation here,” she remarked.
Mamata Banerjee also clarified that West Bengal has no connection to Bangladesh’s internal politics, emphasizing that the state adheres to the principles of secularism, democracy, and the Constitution. “We have no connection with the politics in Bangladesh, and we don’t want to comment on what kind of politics they do. But in our country, we follow secularism, democracy, and our Constitution. We should not fall for any provocation,” she said.
She also mentioned that the foreign secretary of India will meet with officials in Bangladesh to discuss the matter, adding, “As far as I know, the foreign secretary will have a meeting tomorrow in Bangladesh. Let them decide. I have always been clear that we will never interfere when it comes to external affairs. My party’s and our state government’s policy is to follow GOI guidelines on the matter… We hope the meeting is successful.”