Mamata Banerjee Urges Caution on Social Media Comments About Bangladesh

Kolkata, August 5, 2024 - West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has issued a stern warning to political leaders and the general public regarding the sensitivity of comments made about Bangladesh on social media platforms. Addressing reporters briefly on Monday afternoon, Banerjee expressed concerns over the potential ramifications such comments could have on the relationship between India and Bangladesh.

"Everyone is worried about the situation in Bangladesh. But don't say or write anything about it on social media, which can be a problem for Bangladesh or India," the Chief Minister emphasized. She specifically called out BJP leaders in West Bengal, urging them to refrain from making statements that could exacerbate tensions.

Mamata Banerjee also extended this caution to her own party members. "I will also tell our leaders, no one should write anything. I will tell you (journalists) too. I will tell everyone in the society. If something happens to a neighbor, it affects the neighboring state. In that case, the situation should be considered calmly," she advised.

Highlighting the collective responsibility of political figures, Banerjee urged all party leaders to be mindful of communal harmony and to avoid making any inflammatory or violent comments. "Leave the matter to the country. There is a government in the country. Do not make any inflammatory or violent comments," she reiterated.

Banerjee appealed to the general populace to maintain communal peace and to avoid taking the law into their own hands. She underscored the importance of adhering to the directives of the central government regarding foreign affairs, particularly in matters involving Bangladesh.

"Many of us are there. Government of India and Government of Bangladesh must keep an eye on them. Whatever the Indian government tells us (the state government), we will act accordingly," she stated.

The backdrop to these remarks includes a recent statement by Mamata Banerjee in which she assured that if there were significant troubles in Bangladesh leading to an influx of people into West Bengal, they would be given shelter, referencing a United Nations resolution on refugees.

This issue has sparked considerable debate. Bangladesh's Foreign Minister has formally objected to Banerjee's comments, highlighting that foreign policy decisions are the prerogative of the central government of India, not the state governments. This sentiment was echoed by India's Foreign Minister, who affirmed that the central government alone holds the authority to make and communicate decisions regarding India's foreign affairs.

According to intelligence sources from the state government, there are indications that Banerjee may have had prior knowledge of recent developments in Bangladesh. "Looking at Monday's incident, we feel that the Chief Minister was informed about the situation in Bangladesh beforehand. He may have realized in advance that what happened in Bangladesh on Monday was going to happen," a source noted.

Rumors have also surfaced regarding the movements of Bangladesh's resigned Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina. Some intelligence sources suggest that she was initially taken to Agartala before traveling to Delhi, although no official statements have been made at the government level in Agartala or West Bengal regarding her relocation.

A former governor of India, commenting on the situation, expressed his belief that there is a possibility Sheikh Hasina might be offered a place in India. He added that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would need to deliberate carefully and consider all aspects before making any decisions.

The situation remains fluid, and both the Indian and Bangladeshi governments are expected to navigate these sensitive issues with caution to maintain regional stability.