"No objection on celebrations, I just want peaceful processions" Mamata on Ram Navmi rallies | watch

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, in her first press conference after returning from London, criticized the central government on several fronts, including the Waqf Bill and its impact on religious harmony. She accused the central government of attempting to divide people along religious lines and raised concerns over the implications of the bill. Mamata stated, "The sole purpose of the central government is to divide everyone; the Waqf Bill is an example of that." She called on the government to focus on unity rather than sowing division among the citizens.

Regarding the Ram Navami processions, Mamata clarified that she has no objections to the celebrations, as many people in Bengal take part in the procession. She emphasized, however, that she wants the processions to be peaceful. “I want the Ram Navami procession to take place peacefully; that is my only wish,” she said. Mamata further urged all participants to adhere to police guidelines and avoid causing disruptions, stressing that the state government would not tolerate any form of violence or communal unrest.

Mamata also addressed the upcoming religious events, including her participation in a Jain religious ceremony on April 9 at the Netaji Indoor Stadium. She expressed her commitment to respecting all religions equally, reinforcing her stance of religious inclusivity. She urged people to celebrate their faiths peacefully and follow the law. Additionally, Mamata pointed out that the central government had failed to distribute toll tax revenue to West Bengal, despite the state contributing significantly to the tolls. She warned that the government must immediately address the issues related to rising prices and communal tensions.