Mamata Banerjee Rejects Waqf Amendment Act, Vows to Protect Minorities in West Bengal
Kolkata : In a bold statement, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced that the state would not implement the Waqf (Amendment) Act. Speaking at an event for the Jain community in Kolkata, Banerjee reiterated her commitment to safeguarding the interests of minorities in the state. The announcement comes amid rising concerns about the impact of the Waqf Amendment Bill passed by Parliament earlier this month.
During the event, Banerjee assured the people of West Bengal that their property and rights would be protected under her leadership. She emphasized that the state would not succumb to divisive politics, and no act would be implemented that could disrupt the unity of its people. “I know you are aggrieved by the enactment of the Waqf Act. Have faith, nothing will happen in Bengal that could divide and rule. You should send out the message that all people must live together,” she said, addressing the concerns of the Jain community.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill was passed by both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha in early April 2025, after marathon debates. The Bill, which seeks to make changes to the management of Waqf properties in India, has stirred up significant political and social controversy, particularly in states with large Muslim populations. After gaining assent from President Droupadi Murmu, the Bill became law, but Banerjee has firmly declared that it will not apply to West Bengal under her watch.
Mamata Banerjee’s call for Religious Harmony
Banerjee also addressed the recent violence in Murshidabad, where protests erupted over the Waqf Bill. The violence, which occurred on the heels of the Bill’s passage, highlighted the tensions in bordering regions, particularly areas with significant Muslim populations. Banerjee remarked, “Look at the situation in the bordering areas of Bangladesh. This Bill should not have been passed at this time. We have 33 percent minorities in Bengal. What should I do with them?”
The Chief Minister’s reference to the historical context of Bengal’s division during Partition and the creation of Bangladesh underscored her belief in the shared cultural and historical ties between people on both sides of the border. She added, “History says that Bengal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India all were together. Partition took place later. Those who are living here, it is our responsibility to give them protection.”
She warned people against being swayed by those attempting to incite political unrest. “Some people will provoke you to assemble and launch a movement. I will appeal to all of you not to do it. Please remember when Didi (Banerjee) is here, she will protect you and your property. Let us trust each other,” she urged.
The West Bengal Chief Minister emphasized that the state’s approach would prioritize peace and harmony over any political agitation. “When I say this, I am not just talking about politics. It’s about the welfare of all citizens, irrespective of their religion or background,” she remarked.
In her address, she reinforced that her dedication to religious harmony remains unwavering, saying, “I visit places of all religions and will continue to do so. Even if you shoot me dead, you will not be able to separate me from that unity. Every religion, caste, and creed… all of them pray for humanity, and we love them.”
She further spoke about her visits to significant religious sites, including Ajmer Sharif and Brahma Temple in Rajasthan, and other places like the Guru Ravidas Temple.