West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday said that the Waqf Act, 2025, will not be applied in the state. She asked people from the minority community to stay united and not be misled by political tricks, especially during rising tension over the new law.

Speaking at a programme called ‘Navkar Mahamantra Divas’ in Kolkata, Banerjee assured minorities that their rights and properties would be protected.

“I know that you are pained by the Waqf property issue, but have faith that there will be no divide and rule in Bengal,” Banerjee said.

“Please remember, Didi will protect you and your property. You should give the message of live and let live. It is our duty to protect all those living in Bengal.”

She also warned people not to get involved in political gatherings if someone tries to provoke them.

“If anyone provokes you to assemble politically, please don’t do it. If we stay together, then we can conquer the world.”

“See the situation in Bangladesh. This (Waqf Bill) should have not been passed now,” Banerjee said.

The Chief Minister also criticized the central government, saying it is trying to divide the country using emotional slogans.

“The jumla party’s only point is to divide the country. First learn to respect the Constitution, and then talk about taking away someone’s rights.”

Soon after the Waqf Act came into force on Tuesday, protests turned violent in Murshidabad. Protesters allegedly set a police vehicle on fire. To control the situation, the administration reportedly stopped internet services in the area to prevent false information from spreading.

BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya shared videos of the violence, though not verified independently, and blamed Mamata Banerjee for the unrest.

“The West Bengal Police is struggling to rein in the violent Islamist mob... possibly under instructions from home minister Mamata Banerjee herself,” Malviya claimed in a post on X.


“Her inflammatory speeches have directly contributed to the current unrest.”

Malviya also said that the protesters were shouting slogans against the Constitution and demanding Mamata Banerjee’s resignation.

 

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