West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched a fierce criticism of the Centre on Wednesday, condemning the recent Waqf Amendment and the rise in communal tensions. Speaking at Kolkata’s Netaji Indoor Stadium, Banerjee accused the BJP-led central government of pushing a divisive agenda and failing to maintain security along India’s borders.
Questioning the urgency of the amendment, Banerjee asked, “Why were you so hurried about the Waqf Amendment? Didn’t you understand the ground situation in Bangladesh? Bengal shares borders with Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. If the amendment is truly for the country’s benefit, I welcome it. But is this part of a larger plan to incite riots using agencies that facilitate cross-border movement?”
Referring to a report allegedly quoting Home Ministry sources, Banerjee stated, “If Bangladesh is involved, then it’s the Centre’s responsibility. The BSF guards the borders, not the state. Why were outsiders allowed to come into Bengal, create chaos, and then flee? The Centre must be held accountable.”
She further accused the BJP of attempting to polarise communities. “They want to divide Hindus and Muslims. This is not the India we believe in. We must unite, not divide,” she asserted.
Banerjee also took aim at the central government over economic issues, questioning its record on employment and price control. “What happened to job creation? Prices of essential commodities like medicines, petrol, and diesel are skyrocketing. And yet, some ‘godi media’ only focus on defaming Bengal,” she said, alleging that fake videos from other states were circulated to malign the image of West Bengal.
Reaffirming her commitment to communal harmony, she said, “We believe in Sarva Dharma Samabhava. I follow the teachings of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Swami Vivekananda. No one should be allowed to disturb peace in Bengal based on BJP’s instigations.”
Banerjee defended Bengal’s inclusive traditions and criticised BJP’s alleged hypocrisy. “Where does the BJP go when we renovate Kaali Temples or celebrate Durga Puja and Saraswati Puja? They claim we don’t allow celebrations, but every home here celebrates. All religions deserve respect — that is our tradition,” she said.
Her comments came in the wake of violent protests in Murshidabad on April 11 against the Waqf (Amendment) Act. The protests led to the deaths of three people, several injuries, and widespread property damage. Police have so far arrested 150 individuals and deployed forces in affected areas like Samserganj and Dhuliyan.
Meanwhile, the BJP has blamed the Trinamool Congress for allegedly supporting the protests and slammed TMC MP Bapi Halder for his controversial remarks against those opposing the Waqf properties.
The Waqf Amendment continues to be a flashpoint in Bengal’s volatile political landscape.
