West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has urged Central Government to seek a United Nations (UN) peacekeeping mission to address rising tensions in Bangladesh. Speaking in West Bengal Assembly on Monday, Banerjee highlighted need for diplomatic intervention to safeguard minority communities, particularly Hindus, who are reportedly facing persecution in neighboring country.
Rising Concerns Over Minority Rights in Bangladesh
Reports of violence against Hindus and other minority groups in Bangladesh have triggered significant concerns in India, particularly in West Bengal, which shares cultural and familial ties with neighboring nation. arrest of Hindu priests and alleged atrocities on minorities have created a volatile situation, prompting Banerjee to call for urgent action.
Banerjee’s Plea for Central Intervention
Banerjee urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to take immediate steps to address issue. She demanded a statement from Centre during ongoing winter session of Parliament, outlining India’s official stance on matter.
“Let External Affairs Minister or Prime Minister inform nation about what is being done to address situation in Bangladesh. If required, let an international peacekeeping force be sent to help restore normalcy,” Banerjee said.
Proposed Deployment of UN Peacekeeping Forces
Banerjee suggested engaging with Bangladeshi authorities to facilitate deployment of a UN peacekeeping mission. This move, she said, would not only protect vulnerable communities but also restore stability in region.
She emphasized, “An international peacekeeping force could ensure that rights and safety of minority communities are upheld. India must play a proactive role in facilitating this process.”
Support for Persecuted Indians
Chief Minister expressed her willingness to provide refuge to Indians fleeing persecution in Bangladesh. “We will not hesitate to share our resources with those in need. If necessary, we are ready to shelter persecuted Indians. Bengal has always stood for humanity and brotherhood,” she affirmed.
Criticism of Central Inaction
Banerjee criticized Central Government for its perceived inaction regarding escalating crisis. She accused Centre of being unresponsive to plight of minority communities in Bangladesh and detention of 79 Indian fishermen who strayed into Bangladeshi waters.
“Our fishermen remain in their custody, while we ensured safe return of their fishermen when they crossed into our waters. Centre’s silence over last 10 days is unacceptable,” she said.
Targeting BJP
West Bengal Chief Minister took a swipe at Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing its leaders of failing to press Centre for meaningful intervention. She also criticized their demands to halt trade along India-Bangladesh border, stating that such decisions fall under international agreements and cannot be unilaterally enforced by state.
“Instead of making baseless demands, they should urge their leadership in Delhi to take constructive action,” Banerjee remarked.
Focus on Peace and Diplomacy
Mamata Banerjee reiterated her commitment to fostering harmony and peace in region. She called for protection of all communities in Bangladesh and stressed importance of maintaining cordial relations between two nations.
“cultural and historical ties between India and Bangladesh must not be jeopardized. Our focus should be on promoting peace and coexistence,” she said.
Key Issues Raised by Mamata Banerjee
| Aspect | Details |
| Concern | Alleged persecution of minorities in Bangladesh |
| Proposed Solution | Deployment of a UN peacekeeping mission |
| Call for Central Action | Statement from PM Modi or EAM S. Jaishankar during Parliament session |
| Humanitarian Assistance | Willingness to rehabilitate persecuted Indians fleeing Bangladesh |
| Criticism of BJP | Inaction and counterproductive demands regarding trade route closures |
| Focus on Diplomacy | Emphasis on harmony, peace, and bilateral cooperation |
Impact of Proposed Peacekeeping Mission
If implemented, deployment of a UN peacekeeping mission could serve as a significant step toward stabilizing region. It would also reaffirm India’s commitment to protecting minority rights and maintaining peace in its neighboring countries.
Parliamentary Response Expected
Central Government is yet to respond to Banerjee’s demands. With winter session of Parliament underway, all eyes are on External Affairs Ministry for a possible statement on situation in Bangladesh.
Disclaimer
This article is based on publicly available information and statements made by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, but readers are encouraged to verify details independently. article aims to provide an objective overview of developments without endorsing specific political viewpoints.
