“No one from Delhi can interfere in Bengal”: CM Mamata’s warning on Language Day

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on International Mother Language Day issued a sharp warning against what she described as attempts to forcibly interfere in the state’s cultural and political space. She said no authority from Delhi can dictate Bengal’s identity or traditions.

Speaking at a programme, she stressed that February 21 is not just a day for language but a tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for linguistic rights. Recalling singer Pratul Mukhopadhyay, she said his historic song on language continues to inspire people and she personally misses him on the occasion.

The Chief Minister alleged that the Bengali language and its people are being insulted and warned she would not tolerate disrespect toward Bengal’s culture, writers or food habits. She said the state respects people from other regions but interference in local customs would not be accepted.

She also accused the central leadership and political opponents of targeting Bengal politically and culturally, asserting that the state would “not bow down to anyone”. Emphasising federal values, she said India is a republic and diversity must be protected.