Mamata requests private schools to give holiday amid India Pakistan tension

In a strongly worded appeal on May 7, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged media houses and citizens to uphold responsible journalism amid rising national tensions, warning against misinformation and fake news that could provoke unrest.

Addressing the press, she emphasized the need to walk “hand in hand with those fighting terrorism” and refrained from commenting on a key meeting held by the Union Home Minister, citing the need for maintaining secrecy during sensitive times. “This is not the time to speak unnecessarily; sometimes secrets should be kept,” she added.

The Chief Minister also issued a stern warning against spreading unverified news on platforms like YouTube and Facebook. Action, she said, would be taken against individuals or channels promoting fake or speculative news. A government verification channel has been set up where reporters can submit stories for fact-checking.

To ensure public safety and control misinformation, Mamata Banerjee announced the cancellation of all government holidays. She requested private schools to also suspend operations and reassured citizens that sirens or emergency sounds should not cause panic.

She concluded by calling for calm, asking television channels to refrain from hosting debate shows that could spread confusion or fear. A high-level review meeting on agro-marketing and essential commodities has also been scheduled to prevent price manipulation in the current climate.