Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], April 16: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday delivered a sharp rebuke to the BJP-led central government, accusing it of stoking communal tensions and failing to protect national borders in the wake of the recent Waqf (Amendment) Act and related unrest.
Speaking at a public gathering at Kolkata’s Netaji Indoor Stadium, Banerjee questioned the motive and urgency behind the Waqf Amendment. “Why was the government in such a rush? Do they not understand the situation in neighbouring Bangladesh? Bengal shares borders with Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. If this amendment is for the country’s good, I’ll be happy—but is it really? Or is this about sparking riots by exploiting agencies that permit cross-border movement?” she asked.
The Chief Minister raised concerns over the central government’s handling of national security, especially in the context of alleged foreign involvement. “The BSF is under central control, not ours. If there’s an issue with the border, the Centre must answer. Why were BJP goons allowed to enter and create chaos, only to flee afterward? Accountability must be fixed,” Banerjee asserted.
She accused the Centre of attempting to divide the nation along religious lines. “They want to polarise Hindus and Muslims. But this country needs unity, not division,” she declared.
Banerjee didn’t spare the Centre on economic issues either, blasting it over rising inflation and joblessness. “How many youths have received jobs? Prices of petrol, diesel, and medicines are soaring. And yet, certain godi media outlets just spread lies about Bengal,” she said, alleging that some channels aired fake videos from other states, falsely portraying unrest in West Bengal.
Emphasising the state’s inclusive values, Banerjee invoked religious harmony. “We believe in Sarva Dharma Samabhava. I follow the teachings of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Swami Vivekananda. We celebrate Durga Puja, Kaali Puja, Saraswati Puja—but they still say we suppress Hindu festivals. That’s false. All religions are respected here,” she told the crowd.
The Chief Minister urged the public not to fall prey to provocations. “Anyone trying to create unrest in Bengal due to BJP’s statements must be dealt with peacefully and firmly. Bengal’s tradition is one of communal harmony,” she said.
Her remarks come in the backdrop of violent protests in Murshidabad on April 11 against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, which left three people dead, dozens injured, and property damaged. Police have since arrested 150 individuals and tightened security in affected areas including Samserganj and Dhuliyan.
The BJP has hit back, accusing Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress of supporting the unrest and condemning TMC MP Bapi Halder for allegedly threatening Waqf protestors.