Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath lashed out at West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of maintaining silence over the violent unrest that has gripped Murshidabad for over a week. Addressing a rally in Hardoi, Yogi said that in the name of secularism, Mamata Banerjee has given space to lawlessness and those who incite violence. Referring to her as someone who protects rioters under the guise of peace, he declared, “Laaton ke bhoot baaton se nahi maante.” He further stated that the state machinery in Bengal has failed to respond to the chaos unfolding in Murshidabad, resulting in widespread fear and disorder.
The UP CM didn’t spare other opposition parties either, targeting Congress and the Samajwadi Party for their “deafening silence” over the incidents. He went so far as to call them a “burden on the land of India,” accusing them of siding with those who support anti-national activities. Yogi also criticized leaders who, according to him, seem more inclined towards sympathizing with Bangladesh than protecting India’s integrity. His remarks come in the wake of ongoing communal violence triggered by protests against the newly enacted Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. As per reports, over 200 people have been arrested, with multiple instances of vandalism, clashes, and torching of police vehicles reported in South 24 Parganas and other parts of the state.
Highlighting the benefits of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, Yogi Adityanath praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for what he described as a historic move to end the “loot” of public land in the name of Waqf. He said the new legislation would open up opportunities to build schools, hospitals, and homes for the poor on recovered land. The law, passed by both Houses of Parliament and signed by the President, aims to streamline the management and oversight of Waqf properties. However, critics claim it is being used to target minority institutions. The latest clashes began when police halted ISF supporters heading to an anti-Waqf rally, sparking unrest in already tense areas.
