Waqf Act won't be implemented in Bengal: Mamata Banerjee

Attending an event organised by the Jain community in Kolkata, Mamata said she won't allow any law that creates division among people, giving out a message of co-existence.

The Chief Minister said, "I know you are pained by the Waqf Act. Please keep faith in us, we won't allow anything that allows divide and rule. Please remain united. Live and let live. There is nothing to be worried about. I am often asked why I attend all religious events. Let me tell them that I will continue to visit all religious events.

"I will keep talking about unity even if I get killed. All religions co-exists in our state. Our aim is not to divide but to unite. The country will be weak if people are divided but progress in unity. No one has the right to infringe upon others' properties."

Earlier, Mamata, who heads the ruling Trinamool Congress, had said the Waqf (Amendment) Act will again be revised once the anti-Modi front comes to power in future.

Mamata's remark comes in the backdrop of violent anti-Waqf protests that erupted in the Muslim dominated Jangipur of West Bengal's Murshidabad district on Wednesday.

Protesters attempted to block National Highway 12 in Ahiron, which is about 24 km away from Tuesday's violent-hit area. The protesters burnt tyres to block the highway and torched the police vehicles.

Police resorted to a lathicharge and tear gas shell to disperse the mob.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, was passed by both Houses of Parliament last week after marathon debates.

The Bill became an Act after it received the assent of President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday.

The Act came into effect on Tuesday, April 8.