We won’t sit eating lollipops: CM Mamata responds to BNP leader’s ‘capture’ call for Bengal, Bihar, Odisha

BNP leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has caused a stir with his recent statement calling for the takeover of Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha. Rizvi made this claim during a public speech, which has drawn attention from both Bangladesh and India. He stated that his party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), would "capture" these Indian states. This statement has become a subject of political debate, particularly due to the historically sensitive relations between India and Bangladesh. Rizvi’s remarks have been viewed as part of the ongoing political tension in Bangladesh, where the opposition has increasingly criticized the ruling Awami League government.

In response to Rizvi’s comments, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee delivered a pointed reply during the state Assembly session on Monday. Mamata strongly dismissed Rizvi’s claims, emphasizing that such remarks would not be tolerated by West Bengal. She stated, "Those who say they will take over should not think that we will just sit and eat lollipops." Mamata also made it clear that the state was actively engaged in matters concerning its security but would not indulge in unnecessary provocations. She reiterated that the state would focus on maintaining peace and would not seek violence or unrest.

This controversy comes on the heels of another statement made by former Bangladesh army personnel, who had also called for the takeover of Kolkata. Just two days before Rizvi’s comments, these former military figures had raised the issue of capturing Kolkata, which had already caused some concern in India. Despite these provocative statements, diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh remain in focus, with talks continuing between the two countries. On Monday, India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri arrived in Dhaka for a scheduled meeting with Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary Md. Shahidul Haque. The meeting is part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to address bilateral issues and to manage regional concerns, including the political instability in Bangladesh.

Additionally, Mamata Banerjee addressed the circulation of fake videos about Bangladesh, which have been spreading on social media. She claimed that these videos were being used to incite further tensions between India and Bangladesh. Mamata made it clear that West Bengal would follow the central government’s stance on diplomatic matters related to Bangladesh, underlining the state's commitment to adhering to national policy. She also emphasized the importance of regional stability and peace, making it clear that West Bengal’s approach to international relations would remain consistent with that of the central government.