“Didi Will Protect You and Your Property”: Mamata Banerjee Assures Muslims Amid Waqf Act Concerns

KOLKATA, April 9 — West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has firmly stated that the amended Waqf Act will not be implemented in the state, offering strong reassurance to the Muslim community in light of nationwide concerns over the recently passed legislation.

Speaking at an event organised by the Jain community, the CM said, “Don’t worry. Didi is here. Didi will protect you and your property.” She also took a veiled swipe at the BJP, accusing it of trying to divide communities. “I know you are hurt by the Waqf Amendment Act but nothing of that sort will happen in Bengal that divides and rules us,” Mamata said.

Highlighting the secular fabric of West Bengal, Banerjee noted, “We have 33 per cent Muslims here. They have been living here for centuries. It is my duty to protect them.”

In reference to claims that Hindus are unprotected in Bengal, she countered, “If I am invited by the Jain community, won’t I attend? I will. Who protects the Hindus here? This is your home, too. We believe in live and let live.”

The Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024—recently passed by both Houses of Parliament—introduces major changes, including judicial intervention in Waqf disputes, mandatory documentation for Waqf claims, and a centralised property registration system. The new law has faced backlash from various quarters, especially Muslim leaders and groups.

Despite the national implications of the law, Mamata Banerjee has drawn a clear line, promising that Bengal will not allow its divisive aspects to take root.