West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has reiterated that her government will not implement the Waqf Amendment Bill in the state, distancing herself and her party from the law passed by the Centre. Her remarks come at a time when violent protests are erupting across parts of West Bengal, including incidents of vandalism in Murshidabad. Banerjee urged the public to stay calm and accused certain political groups of exploiting the issue to fuel unrest for political gain.
Banerjee Mamata Urges Peace, Blames Centre for the Law
In a detailed post on X (formerly Twitter), Banerjee Mamata Banerjee made a strong appeal to the people of all religions to maintain peace and not fall for politically motivated incitement. She emphasized that her party, the Trinamool Congress, had made its opposition to the Waqf Bill clear and would not enforce it in West Bengal.
“We did not make this law; it was passed by the central government,” she said, adding that citizens should direct their questions to Delhi. She warned that legal action would be taken against anyone inciting riots or participating in violence. According to Banerjee, some parties are using religion for political mileage, which she believes is harmful to the fabric of society.
“Religion, to me, means humanity, civilization, and harmony,” she added, calling on people to uphold peace.
Violence Erupts, Opposition Targets Banerjee Mamata
Despite her appeal, widespread protests have disrupted normal life in areas like Murshidabad. Protesters vandalized the Jalangi Block Development Office and blocked express trains, turning rail premises into zones of chaos. BJP leader Sukanta Majumdar criticized Banerjee Mamata for failing to maintain law and order, accusing her of remaining silent while the situation deteriorated.
Amid growing unrest, West Bengal Police said they are taking strong measures to restore order. DGP Rajeev Kumar said communal tensions have been observed in Jangipur and warned that strict action would be taken against anyone engaging in violence or arson. He also urged people not to spread or believe in rumours.
Meanwhile, BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari wrote to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw demanding that the National Investigation Agency take over the probe into vandalism at railway stations in Murshidabad. He called the attacks deliberate and a threat to public safety and national security.
