Mamata assures minorities that she will protect their interests

Agitators raise slogans during a protest over the Waqf (Amendment) Act, in Murshidabad district of West Bengal. April 8, 2025.
| Photo Credit: PTI

Amidst violent protests in certain parts of the State over The Waqf (Amendment) Act, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday (April 9, 2025) assured people from the minority community that she would protect their interests, but added that acting hurriedly would jeopardise the interests of her government.

“I have a message for the minorities, I know you are upset [regarding The Waqf (Amendment) Act]. But have faith, nothing will happen in Bengal along the lines of divide-and-rule. Let this message go to everyone, to live and let others live in peace,” the Chief Minister said while participating in an event organised by the Jain community in Kolkata.

Ms. Banerjee said that many people are “politically provoking” members of the community to assemble and “start a movement”. “I will appeal to you to not do such a thing. Please don’t get restless. Look at the situation at the Bangladesh border. Acting hurriedly might lead to problems. It will lead to problems for me,” she urged.

The Chief Minister’s remarks came a day after protests over The Waqf (Amendment) Act turned violent in Jangipur, Murshidabad district, where a mob attacked and set police vehicles on fire. Police sources confirmed that 22 persons have been arrested in connection with the violence, prohibitory orders have been imposed in the area, and the situation was currently under control.

“Please remember that when Didi is here, Didi will protect you and your property,” the Trinamool Congress chairperson said, reiterating her assurance. Ms. Banerjee also claimed that West Bengal is home to a minority population of about 33%, a demographic she stated has prevailed since pre-independence times when “India, Pakistan and Bangladesh were one”. According to the 2011 Census, the minority population in the State stood at 27.01%.

‘Twisted remarks’

While the Chief Minister sought to reassure minorities and cautioned against provocation, her remarks drew sharp criticism from the BJP. State BJP president Sukanta Majumdar alleged that Ms. Banerjee was opposing The Waqf (Amendment) Act. “The law being opposed in Bengal was passed in both Houses of Parliament, signed by the Hon’ble President of India. It’s the will of the nation. Yet a constitutional head chooses to back lawlessness? This isn’t dissent — it’s a direct betrayal of the Constitution!” Mr. Majumdar stated.

The Trinamool Congress leadership swiftly accused the BJP of distorting the Chief Minister’s statements. “We strongly condemn how the statement is being twisted by the BJP for its propaganda… The BJP cannot tolerate that Mamata Banerjee is for all; this is why they are engaging in distorted propaganda,” stated senior party leader Kunal Ghosh.

Mr. Ghosh added that the party chairperson had clearly articulated her stand against divisive politics based on religion and assured that no one in the State should worry as the Trinamool Congress government would ensure their safety and well-being.