No place for divide-and-rule policies in Bengal: Mamata
Times of India | 10 April 2025
Kolkata: Policies that divide people would not be allowed in Bengal, CM Mamata Banerjee said on Wednesday, a day after Centre notified the Waqf (Amendment Act) 2025 into a law, adding that she would keep advocating unity and love till her last breath and "will not allow any religious division even if I am shot".
"I want to tell minorities — we know you are pained over the waqf property matter — have faith. Nothing that will allow divide-and-rule will happen in Bengal. We do not have the right to seize anyone's property. Let everyone live in peace," Banerjee said while addressing an event organised by Jain International Trade Organisation's Kolkata chapter on Wednesday, a day before Mahavir Jayanti.
"There should be no impatience. It is our duty to provide protection to all communities. I appeal to the minority community to not fall for political provocation. Please remember that when Didi is here, she will protect you and your property. Let us trust everybody. If we are together, we can win everything and conquer the world. Let us give this message to the world," she said.
The CM added, "There are some things that should not be done in a hurry. We have 33% minority population here. Will we drive the minority community away? We did not cause the Partition. Before independence, all religious communities lived together. We will protect our people."
Taking on the opposition, Mamata Banerjee said, "Some people falsely accuse us of not protecting the Hindu religion in Bengal. But tell me, which programme have I ever stopped? In fact, I must credit the minority community for their active participation in Hindu festivals. This is Bengal, I am proud of it. If I can attend Durga Puja, why should I not attend Eid or other celebrations?"
Referring to Bengal's inclusivity, she said, "Inclusiveness is part of your tradition and it is precisely why we oppose divisive politics. We believe in unity. People from all communities live together here. This unique blend is what makes India so special."
Banerjee also stressed on the need to "stay united" at a time the country was facing serious challenges due the global economic turmoil. "Let us come together and fight this challenge with unity. We take pride in our country, our state and in all religions. I stand with you. May your community continue to prosper," she said.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion of Navkar Mahamantra Diwas, Banerjee said, "There are several Jain temples in the state and their parampara began in Burdwan. It is our good fortune that after his birth Mahavir Ji spent some time here. The Jain community is deeply connected with love and affection. Life is short. Let us do meaningful work filled with love and compassion. I urge everyone to unite and work towards a harmonious and united nation."
The Jain Samaj presented the CM a memento that she said would be preserved in Alipore Museum.
(With inputs from Adrija Datta & Anandita Chakrabarty)