Will we have lollipop?:  Mamata Banerjee

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said, “The neighbouring country thinks Indians ‘would have lollipop’ when external forces attempt to occupy Indian territories”.

She made the comment while addressing the state assembly on Monday.

The West Bengal chief minster said, “You will occupy Bengal, Bihar and Odisha, and we will have lollipops? Don't even think that”. 

She advised everyone to stay calm and not to get provoked by statements made in Bangladesh. 

She responded to provocative remarks from certain Bangladeshi leaders with a simple message, ‘Stay calm and healthy and have peace of mind’.

The Trinamool Congress chief said everyone is concerned about the atrocities against Hindu minorities in the neighbouring country. “Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, or Christians don't start riots. Anti-social elements start riots. We should not make any remark that creates a bad situation in Bengal. I am happy that both Hindus and the Muslim minority here are protesting against atrocities in Bangladesh. This shows our secular nature," she said.

She said minority leaders wanted to take out a rally. “I asked them not to. Many people use this as an opportunity. They would start another riot. We don't want riots, we want peace. Hindus and Muslims and Sikhs and Christians have the same blood,” Ms Banerjee said.

She appealed to a section of the media for restraint in their coverage of the Bangladesh situation. “This is not Uttar Pradesh or Rajasthan that we will ban or arrest you. But I request you. Many fake videos are doing the rounds. A political party is trying to ignite a fire. Both communities must be watchful of this,” she said. “Those thinking of politicising this must remember that it will hurt your state too and your friends there,” she said.

The Bengal Chief Minister said many people from Bangladesh want to cross into the border state. “The BSF is watching. We will not comment on this. Those with money are coming on planes or trains, but the poor cannot. We don't handle the border. Let them (Centre). We don't interfere in matters of External Affairs (ministry)," she said.

Source: Agencies