Mamata Banerjee Urges Muslim Leaders to Move Waqf Act Protests to Delhi
Chief Minister's Call for Peaceful Protests
Kolkata: On Wednesday, West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged Muslim religious figures to relocate their protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act from West Bengal to the national capital, Delhi.
During a meeting with Imams, Muezzins, and other Muslim leaders, she emphasized the importance of maintaining peace in their local communities. Banerjee stated, "There is no benefit in continuing the movement here; it should be taken to New Delhi. Avoid escalating tensions in the state due to provocations from the BJP. Instead, direct your concerns towards those instigating unrest."
The gathering was organized to strategize on opposing the Waqf (Amendment) Act effectively.
Banerjee highlighted the need for a legal approach to contest the Act, asserting, "We must fight this battle in New Delhi, not in West Bengal."
She encouraged the religious leaders to reach out to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to express their grievances regarding the legislation.
Additionally, she assured that the Trinamool Congress' Parliamentary team would support any actions taken in the capital concerning this matter.
The Chief Minister criticized the new Waqf Act, claiming it contradicts the Indian Constitution and undermines the federal structure of democracy. She referenced Articles 18 and 35, which affirm state rights over property, arguing that the Act infringes upon these rights.
Banerjee also pointed out that Article 26 guarantees the right to practice any religion, which includes property inheritance and maintenance rights. "These rights have been taken away from the people, affecting both Ram and Rahim," she stated.
Previously, Banerjee had declared that the new Act would not be enforced in West Bengal, assuring minority communities of her commitment to safeguarding their rights and properties.
In response, the BJP contended that a Chief Minister lacks the authority to declare that a Central Act will not be enforced within their state.