Mamata Banerjee Speaks Out Against Violence Towards Bengali Migrants in Odisha

Condemnation of Violence

Kolkata/Sambalpur: On Saturday, West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her outrage over the murder of a migrant worker from her state in Odisha, emphasizing that speaking Bengali should never be considered a crime.

In a statement on her official X account, Banerjee revealed that a zero FIR has been lodged in West Bengal, leading to the arrest of six individuals linked to the case.

She stated, “We vehemently denounce the severe oppression faced by Bengali-speaking individuals in BJP-governed states. Our solidarity lies with the terrorized and oppressed Bengali-speaking migrant families, and we are committed to offering them our full support. While no amount of money can replace a human life, we will ensure financial compensation for those who have lost loved ones.”

The migrant worker, identified as Jewel Rana, was reportedly killed in Sambalpur district after a dispute over a 'bidi' on Wednesday.

The West Bengal Police have initiated a zero FIR at the Suti police station, and a team has been dispatched to Odisha to investigate the matter.

Banerjee noted, “Recently, migrant workers from the Jangipur region have encountered various forms of mistreatment in Odisha, a state ruled by the BJP. It is tragic that a young worker from Sutia in Jangipur was beaten to death in Sambalpur on December 24. Many from Murshidabad are returning home in fear. We stand with the bereaved families, and financial aid will be provided to the deceased's family.”

She reiterated, “We denounce the offenders in BJP-ruled states and promise to assist the victims in every possible way. Speaking Bengali cannot be a crime.”

Regarding the incident involving Jewel Rana, she confirmed, “The West Bengal Police have registered a Zero FIR at the Sutia Police Station, and six suspects have been apprehended. A police team from West Bengal is currently in Odisha to conduct the investigation.”