‘Will we have lollipops?’ Mamata Banerjee slams Bangladeshi politicians over ’occupy Bengal, Bihar and Odisha’ claim

Mamata Banerjee issued a furious rebuttal on Monday after a section of Bangladeshi politicians laid claim to West Bengal, Bihar and Odisha. The WB Chief Minister also urged people to stay calm and insisted that her state would always stand by any decision taken by the Centre.

“You will occupy Bengal, Bihar and Odisha, and we will have lollipops? Don't even think that. No one has the guts to take our lands, don't even think about it…Our foreign secretary is in Bangladesh for talks. Let us not speak more than what is required. Let us wait for the outcome. We are responsible citizens. Our country is united,” she said.

The remarks came in the wake of assertions made by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party during a recent public meeting. The grouping headed by Khaleda Zia sparked outrage last week after a senior leader reportedly claimed they were preparing to ‘capture’ West Bengal, Bihar and Odisha.

Banerjee also stressed the need for unity among religious communities in India — noting that both Hindus and Muslims in Bengal had condemned the “unacceptable” atrocities against minorities. She also urged the people of the state to ‘show solidarity with their counterparts across the border’.

"I am thankful that while Hindus are protesting, Imams also held a press conference to condemn the atrocities against minorities in Bangladesh. This just shows that West Bengal is first when it comes to showing an example of secularism," she added.

The Bengal CM warned that some individuals might politicise the issue and use it to provoke communal riots.

“This is not Uttar Pradesh or Rajasthan where we will ban or arrest you. But I request you to be responsible. Many fake videos are doing the rounds. A political party is trying to ignite a fire. Both communities must be watchful of this…We don't want riots. We want peace. The same blood flows in the veins of Hindus and Muslims and all other communities,” she reminded.

(With inputs from agencies)