Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], April 20 (ANI): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has issued a public appeal for peace and communal harmony following recent violence in Murshidabad district that left three people dead, including a father and son. In her statement, Banerjee squarely blamed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its ideological affiliate, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), accusing them of stoking unrest for political gains.
In an open letter to the people of the state, Banerjee wrote, “BJP and its allies have suddenly become very aggressive in West Bengal. These allies include RSS… These forces are using the backdrop of an unfortunate incident that happened on provocation. They are using the backdrop to play divisive politics.”
The violence broke out on April 11 during protests over the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. The incident resulted in casualties, injuries, and property destruction. Dozens of families were displaced, some seeking refuge in neighbouring Jharkhand’s Pakur district, while others have taken shelter in relief camps in Malda.
Calling for unity, Banerjee emphasized that “communal riots must be condemned and curbed,” and urged all communities to avoid mistrust. “The majority and the minority communities must work together and take care of each other,” she said, reaffirming her government’s commitment to maintaining law and order.
The Chief Minister also outlined the state’s response to the unrest. “Two police officers-in-charge have been removed. Police are investigating. Further actions are being taken…” she stated, underscoring that strong action is being taken against those responsible.
She further accused her political rivals of seeking to destabilize West Bengal through polarisation. “They want to incite riots, and riots can affect everyone. We love all. We want to stay together. We condemn riots. We are against riots. They want to divide us for some narrow electoral politics,” she said.
Banerjee’s remarks come amid growing political tension over the Waqf (Amendment) Act and its broader constitutional implications, with multiple parties clashing over both legal and social dimensions of the legislation. (ANI)
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