Kolkata, April 11: On the auspicious occasion of Eid al-Fitr, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee reaffirmed her resolute opposition to the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), National Register of Citizens (NRC), and Uniform Civil Code (UCC), declaring that she would not permit their forceful implementation in the state as long as she remains alive.
Addressing a gathering on Red Road during Eid celebrations, Banerjee asserted her commitment to national unity and religious harmony. She emphasized, “We are prepared to sacrifice for our nation, but we will not tolerate oppression in the name of the nation. A uniform civil code is not conducive to our ethos. I advocate for the peaceful coexistence of all faiths.”
Expressing concerns about potential religiously motivated violence during the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Banerjee urged her supporters to maintain composure in the face of provocations. “There are those who may attempt to incite riots under the guise of religion. Stay composed, and we will thwart their sinister designs,” she cautioned.
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo further criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing them of exploiting central agencies to intimidate opposition figures ahead of the elections. “Certain elements seek to use agencies during elections to instill fear, employing the CBI, ED, Income Tax Department, and NIA against dissenters,” Banerjee remarked, promising defiance against such tactics.
Banerjee emphasized her commitment to fostering inclusivity, stating, “I do not harbor hatred towards anyone. I do not propagate hate speeches. My vision is for all individuals to coexist like siblings, in a climate of peace and accord.”
Asserting her solidarity with the people of West Bengal, Banerjee assured, “As long as I live, no harm will befall you. I will continue to battle against those who seek to divide us. My courage is inspired by your resilience.”
In a spirited challenge to the BJP’s strategy, Banerjee quipped, “They may construct jails and threaten incarceration, but can they imprison the entire 1.3 billion population?”
Banerjee’s stance underscores the political landscape’s intensity as the nation approaches pivotal elections, with the TMC chief unyielding in her commitment to uphold secular values and safeguard communal harmony in West Bengal.
