Mamata Banerjee slams Bangladesh for its claims on Indian territory

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized Bangladeshi politicians' recent claims over Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha, questioning whether they think India would be passive in defending its territories.

She asked whether the neighboring nation believes Indians "would have lollipop" when outside forces try to occupy Indian territory.

She urged calm and advised against reacting to such statements.

She made the blunt statement, "Stay calm and healthy and have peace of mind," in response to controversial statements made by several Bangladeshi officials.

At a recent event in Dhaka, a leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) said that Bangladesh has rightful claims over Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha.

She emphasized that the imams of West Bengal have condemned the remarks and assaults on the Bangladeshi minority and have urged people to remain calm in the face of offensive remarks.

"In our state, even imams have condemned the comments and attacks on minorities in Bangladesh," she said.

"The same blood flows in the veins of Hindus and Muslims and all other communities. We must all work together to ensure nothing is done to aggravate the situation in West Bengal," she added.

"West Bengal is the first state in the country where people, irrespective of caste, creed, or community, staged a collective protest against the situation in Bangladesh," the CM said.

While discussing situations in the neighboring country, she advised all parties—including political opponents and media agencies—to exercise responsibility.

Comparing the situation with Uttar Pradesh, she said, "West Bengal is not Uttar Pradesh that we will ban your telecast. But act responsibly in the interest of West Bengal and its people.”

“If trouble breaks out here, will it not affect you? Similarly, if the situation worsens in Bangladesh, it will affect our relatives and friends there. Hence, please maintain restraint while commenting on the situation,” she added.

She said that neither her party nor the West Bengal government would make unapproved remarks and would follow the minister of external affairs' directives.

"Our foreign secretary is in Bangladesh for talks. Let us not speak more than what is required. Let us wait for the outcome. We are responsible citizens. Our country is united," said the CM.

Amid tense relations after Sheikh Hasina's dismissal in August, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri had discussions with his Bangladeshi counterpart, Mohammad Jashim Uddin.