Mamata Banerjee Raises Concerns Over TMC MP's Inclusion in Anti-Terror Delegation
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has voiced her concerns regarding the inclusion of TMC MP Yusuf Pathan in an all-party delegation aimed at combating terrorism. She criticized the central government's unilateral decision-making process and emphasized the need for party consultation. Banerjee reaffirmed her support for the government's foreign policy while clarifying that the TMC has not opted out of the diplomatic mission against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. Meanwhile, Congress has accused the government of politicizing the selection of delegation members, calling for a more inclusive approach. This ongoing political discourse highlights the complexities of party dynamics in India's governance.
| May 19, 2025, 13:08 IST
Mamata Banerjee Questions Delegation Composition
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has expressed her apprehensions regarding the inclusion of TMC MP Yusuf Pathan in the all-party delegation visiting key partner nations to showcase India's ongoing battle against terrorism and Operation Sindoor. Criticizing the central government, she stated that they cannot unilaterally decide on names. If they request from the mother party, then the party will determine the names. This is the established tradition and system. We stand with the central government on foreign policy matters and fully support them.
Response to Questions on Multilateral Diplomatic Mission
When asked if the TMC opted out of the central government's multilateral diplomatic mission aimed at combating Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, Banerjee clarified that no request had been received. She mentioned that if a request were made, they would consider it. We are in favor of the nation. On foreign affairs, we have consistently supported the central policy. Currently, we are backing the government's views and actions. They cannot independently decide on a member's name; it is the party's choice. If they request me to send someone, we will finalize the name and inform them. It is not that we are boycotting or refusing to participate.
Congress Criticizes Government's Selection Process
Previously, the Congress party stated that it does not prevent anyone from being part of the diplomatic delegations sent to various countries after Operation Sindoor. They urged leaders nominated by the government to listen to their conscience and contribute to the process. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh accused the government of politicizing the selection process for delegations and harboring malicious intent, as only one of the four Congress leaders nominated by the party was chosen for the role.
Call for Discussion on Nominations
Ramesh emphasized that if it was essential for Congress MPs to be included, the party should have been consulted. They could have asked us for names. Political parties are the lifeblood of democracy in our country. Parties form the government, not the other way around. While we have a party system, you have cast doubt on it. What kind of politics is this? Are you going to decide the names of our MPs going on the delegation? We have no issue with the chosen names; they are my good friends, experienced, and have worked on foreign and defense policy for many years. The process chosen is flawed and notorious; it should not have been conducted this way.
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