Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata

Kolkata, Apr 14: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday called for unity and mutual respect across communities, emphasizing that "no religion is greater than the religion of love and humanity." Her remarks came during the inauguration of the Kalighat Skywalk and Hawkers’ Corner near the historic Kalighat Temple in South Kolkata.

Taking a swipe at critics who target her for attending events of various faiths, Mamata said, “Why am I mocked or my surname changed when I join religious functions outside my own faith? Who are these people? Religion is not about hatred or division — it stands for love, peace, respect, sacrifice, and shared culture.”

Without naming specific groups, the Chief Minister indirectly referred to the recent communal unrest in Murshidabad, where violence erupted following protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act. She appealed to people not to fall prey to provocation or spread of misinformation.

“Everyone has the democratic right to protest peacefully. But no one has the right to take the law into their own hands. Some elements may try to incite unrest, but we must not react impulsively. Keep your cool and maintain peace,” Mamata advised.

She also reiterated Bengal’s legacy of embracing diverse cultures — both national and international — and said that inclusive harmony remains the state’s defining strength.

Earlier, on April 12, Mamata had assured that the controversial Waqf (Amendment) Act would not be implemented in West Bengal, making protests on the issue unnecessary within the state. She further clarified that neither her government nor her party played any role in the passage of the Act, placing the responsibility squarely on the Union government.

“If people want to protest, they should direct their voice at the Centre — they are the ones who introduced this amendment. We had no hand in it,” Mamata concluded.

Her comments are seen as a broader message of calm and inclusivity as political tensions simmer ahead of the elections.