Didi Will Protect You and Your Property’: Mamata Banerjee Rejects Waqf Act in Bengal
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee declared that the Waqf (Amendment) Act will not be put into effect in the state. While speaking at a Jain community gathering in Kolkata, she reassured the public that the state government would safeguard the rights and property of minority communities.
Mamata Banerjee Speaks Against Waqf Law Implementation
Addressing concerns within the community, Banerjee said, “I know many of you are upset due to the Waqf Act. But trust me, Bengal won’t allow anything that creates division among people. We must stay united.”
She also urged people not to be misled by those trying to trigger unrest. “Some people will try to incite you to start a movement. Please don’t listen to them. When Didi is here, you are safe,” she added.
Recent Tensions in Murshidabad
Banerjee referenced Tuesday’s unrest in Murshidabad, which erupted after debates around the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. She emphasized that the law came at a sensitive time, saying, “We have 33% minorities in Bengal. What am I supposed to do with them if not protect them?”
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on April 3 and cleared the Rajya Sabha shortly after. President Droupadi Murmu gave her approval to the law on Saturday.
‘We All Belong Here’ — Banerjee’s Message of Unity
Reflecting on the history of the subcontinent, Banerjee said, “Bengal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India were once united. It is our responsibility to take care of those who live here now.”
She stressed that unity among people is stronger than any law or policy. “If we stand together, we can achieve anything. Let's not allow hatred to divide us,” she said.
Promoting Religious Harmony Across Communities
Reaffirming her commitment to religious harmony, the Chief Minister mentioned her visits to religious places of all faiths. “Whether it’s Durga Puja, Jain temples, Gurudwaras, churches, or mosques — I go to all of them. Even if someone shoots me, they won’t succeed in separating me from that unity.”
She added that during her visit to Rajasthan, she paid respects at both the Ajmer Sharif Dargah and the Brahma Temple in Pushkar, symbolizing her inclusive approach.
Mamata Banerjee to Minorities: 'Have Faith in Me'
Banerjee ended her speech with a heartfelt promise to minority communities. “Let us trust one another. I am here to protect you and your property. As long as I am here, there is no need to fear,” she said.